Reduce Pollution At Home

The primary factor causing our critical algae problem is runoff of nutrients into the lake, particularly phosphorus.  We all contribute to the problem so we all must work to prevent our lake from becoming unswimmable.  Here are some ideas.

• Lawn and Garden - Excess nutrients/fertilizer cause algae growth.
  • Use fertilizer sparingly - 3 times/year maximum.
  • To minimize runoff of chemicals, use an organic fertilizer such as All Natural Lawn Restore or Whitney Farms Natural & Organic Lawn Food.  These cost more than chemical-based fertilizers, but our lawns are not huge and the few dollars extra are well worth it.
  • Use herbicides on a spot basis only as required.
  • If you use a professional garden service, pick one that is environment friendly.
  • Keep a "chemical free" zone of vegetation by the water's edge.
  • Don't burn leaves or grass clippings near the lake.

• Auto
  • Preferably wash cars at commercial locations where wastewater is treated, reused, or routed to the sanitary sewer (rather than the storm sewer which drains into the lake).
  • If washed at home, use phosphate-free soap sparingly and wash on grass.
  • Recycle used motor oil and antifreeze at an approved facility.

• Soil Erosion
  • Our soil contains Phosphorus so don't allow runoff into the lake. Sweep up dirt rather than washing it off.
  • Maintain an area of vegetation between exposed soil or lawn and the water's edge to trap runoff.

• Animals
  • Scoop and flush, or put in garbage pet droppings to prevent adding nutrients to the lake.
  • Similarly dispose of duck and goose droppings from docks, patios and floats rather than sweeping or washing into the lake.