As property owners, there are simple steps that we can take to protect Lake Glenville and the wildlife and plants within and around the lake.
Minimal efforts can lead to big rewards: maintaining the health of the lake, supporting the flora and fauna that are native to the lake, and preventing erosion are but some of the examples of those rewards. Generally, it is important for all of us to think about the way we use our properties and how what we put onto and do to our land can impact Lake Glenville. The following are a examples of best practices for use of your property:
Septic systems should comply with all applicable laws and ordinances, and should be properly operated and maintained.
- Practice water conservation in the home.
- Do not put household grease, cleaners, paint, solvents and pesticides down the drain.
- Limit the use of antibacterial cleaning products.
- Pump septic systems at least every three years, more often depending on use.
- Systems with garbage disposals should be pumped annually.
- Keep grass clippings, leaves, and pet waste out of the lake. If using a lawn/landscaping service, ask them to collect grass clippings and leaves and haul them away. Pet waste should be picked up and placed in the trash.
- Do not use fertilizer within 50 feet of the lake.
- Limit fertilizing. Use zero-phosphorus fertilizer unless a soil test indicates the need for phosphorus.
- Reduce or eliminate pesticide use on the lawn and garden.
- Slow runoff with gentle sloping and terraced landscaping.
- Seed or install plants in areas of bare ground to prevent erosion.
- Buffers prevent erosion and infiltration of unwanted nutrients into the lake.
- Buffers should be a minimum of 30 feet wide.
- Do not apply fertilizer or pesticides in the buffer.
- Encourage woody vegetation and tall grasses in the buffer to stabilize the shoreline.
- Minimize the disturbance of beneficial aquatic plants along the shoreline since they provide stability and are critical as habitat for fish and other wildlife.
