PREVENTION Keeping our lake clean and healthy starts with everyday choices. Excess nutrients, especially phosphorus, can lead to algae blooms, poor water quality, and harm wildlife. Follow these simple steps to help protect our water.

 Choose fertilizers with a “0” as the middle number (N–P–K) to avoid adding phosphorus. The three numbers represent nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

  Don’t leave clippings or leaves on your yard,  hard surfaces, or near the shoreline. As they break down, they release phosphorus into the water.  NEVER BLOW THESE INTO THE WATER.

Remove weeds by hand when possible. Decomposing plant matter releases phosphorus back into the lake.

  Clean up after pets and be mindful of wildlife waste. Animal waste is a significant source of phosphorus pollution.

 Plant grass or native vegetation to stabilize soil. This helps reduce runoff and naturally filters nutrients before they reach the water. 

 Many soaps and detergents contain phosphates that can harm water quality.

 Feeding birds attracts large numbers, increasing waste and nutrient pollution in the lake.

 A diverse mix of native plants helps absorb excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen, reduces runoff, and shades the water helping prevent algae blooms.

  Overwatering lawns and gardens can cause runoff that carries nutrients and waste into the lake. Water only when necessary.