Switch to phosphate-free cleaning products:

• Phosphorus from septic systems can get into the lake and contribute to unwanted algae growth and cyanobacteria blooms.

Cover bare soil to prevent erosion:

• Use plants, mulch, or leaf litter to cover up and protect soil from erosion. Learn about how The Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act protects water quality by regulating vegetation management.

Reduce large lawns:

• If you have a larger lawn, consider dedicating a “no-mow” portion for pollinator habitat. Always make sure that you have a healthy planted buffer along the water’s edge and learn about lawn care within the protected shoreland.

Minimize impervious surfaces:

• Runoff water from driveways, pathways, and parking areas (whether paved or not) can wash pollutants into nearby lakes, rivers, wetlands, and storm drains that empty into a waterbody. Directing water runoff into vegetated, well-drained areas is important.

Use less de-icing products:

• Unlike other pollutants, salt cannot be treated or removed from runoff and it is salinating the lake. Use salt only when absolutely necessary, and use only enough for safe passage.

Make sure your septic system is well maintained:

• Systems should be inspected and pumped regularly to protect the lake from bacteria and phosphorus.

Leave a buffer of vegetation along the shore:

• This buffer serves as a “last line of defense to prevent unwanted runoff and erosion from entering the water and keeps the bank stable.

Put bubblers on a timer:

• The bubbler does not need to run constantly to be effective and a reduction in run time minimizes the amount of disturbance to the lake/pond bottom and shoreline. Minimize runtime to 2 to 4 hours daily

Ditch the pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers:

• These chemicals are regulated within the protected shoreland area. Fertilizers are a major source of phosphorus which causes unwanted plant and algae. Pesticides and herbicides threaten wildlife.

Do not feed waterfowl:

• Waterfowl waste contributes to phosphorus levels.  Natural water conditions discourage plant and algae growth.

Leave the shallow area natural:

• Lake shallows provide food and habitat for animals and their young and protect the shoreline from wind and wave erosion.

Make your voice heard:

• As building and property development increases throughout the watershed, it is critical that stormwater runoff and soil erosion are controlled during and after construction. Advocate for new and existing zoning regulations designed to protect our watershed.