Recently, I attended a Lake Community Meeting where a presentation was made to talk about why our lake was covered with green filamentous algae last summer. I learned so much at this lovely cocktail party. Nutrients such as nitrogen (leaves and branches), and phosphorous (in the soil) were found in our lake at rate limiting concentrations last summer. Also, we had much rain and good sunlight to give algae the growth opportunity in needs to thrive. We learned the source of nutrients that cause algae growth are run-off from the yards (fertilizer), run-off from the Canal , the big lake and the hill area. Also, organic vegetative matter (leaves and twigs) and Canada Geese excrement contribute to algae growth.We learned that our town government does much to try to keep our lakes clean. We also talked about what we could do as individuals to make a difference.
Actions Individuals Can Take to Discourage Algae in Our Lakes
- Minimize Fertilizer (compromise on the quality of your lawn)- Limit Fertilizer to only Once in the Spring
- Discuss with Your Landscaper the Town Ban on Phosphate Fertilizers
- Let Your Landscaper Know that You Can Go without an Emerald Green Lawn
- Attend Lake Management Meetings (2nd Tuesday of the Month)
- Advocate for our Lakes (educate residents about the phosphate fertilizer problem)
- Let Borough Manager Know if Canada Geese are a Problem on Your Property
- Plant a Riparian Buffer ( the bigger the buffer the better)
- Avoid excessive lawn sprinkling
- Allow lawn to go dormant during hottest part of summer (this is a natural part of the lawn life cycle, it will green up again when it cools off)
We know that many property owners love their lawns and gardens. Yet one of the lovely features in our town are the lakes where everyone can go on hot summer day. If everyone were willing to compromise a bit on lawn quality we would not have to add so many chemicals to our lakes. For some information on organic (non-phosphate) fertilizers, tips on discussing lakeside lawn management with your landscaper and other healthy lawn ideas, click here.
