|
HOW YOU CAN HELP (Print and Save this List!) How property
owners treat their land has a direct impact on the health of the lakes. By
following the practices listed below, you will improve the quality of the lakes' water and maintain a healthy
lawn and plants. Optimize Fertilization: ► Have your soil checked to see if you need
fertilizers and if so what kind.
Excess nutrients from your lawn could end up in the lakes causing
algal blooms and odors. ► If you do need to
fertilize, use minimal amount and keep it off of impervious services. ► Fertilize your lawn in one
application per year in the fall. ► Leave grass clippings on
your lawn to provide nutrients or use your composted yard wastes. Reduce Chemical Use: ►Use integrated pest
management strategies to minimize or eliminate chemicals. Only use chemicals when there are no other
options. ► Alternatives include: pulling weeds, spraying full strength
vinegar on young leaves, burn weeds with a propane torch, pour boiling water
over weeds, feed the lawn and keep high to outcompete
the weeds or learn to live with a few. ► Do not apply pesticides
prior to a rain storm. Increase Wildlife Habitat: ► Plant native trees and
shrubs to reduce pests, disease and weeds. ► Plant trees and shrubs
that provide food, especially for winter. Minimize Runoff & Soil Erosion: ► Use crushed stone or
shells for your walkways to allow rainfall to drain into the ground. ► Direct your roof leaders
to grassy areas or gardens or use good old-fashioned rain barrels to collect
roof runoff and allow it to drain slowly into your gardens. Use splash blocks or drainage tiles. ► Leave mulch cover on
flower and vegetable gardens during winter months and around any open soil
around shrubs and hedges. ► Design your landscaping to
take full advantage of rainfall by diverting driveway or street runoff to your garden, cascade your
garden over terraces or timbers to slow runoff and to maximize percolation. ► Limit your grassy areas
and increase trees and shrubs to soak up nutrients and prevent soil erosion
to keep them out of the lakes. Shoreline Landscaping ► Maintain a shoreline buffer of trees,
shrubs, and grasses on waterfront properties.
Evaluate other natural buffers. Optimize Land Use Regulations: ► Get involved in land use
planning in ► Support policies that integrate
storm water management best practices. General: ► Dispose of all hazardous
wastes such as paints, solvents, used oil, gas with water, antifreeze, etc. properly,
do not pour on lawn. |