Along its journey to the lake, stormwater picks up many contaminants that pollute freshwater ecosystems and spur the growth of harmful algae and bacteria. During large rain and melt events improperly managed stormwater can easily damage property and infrastructure. Washouts do more than create a headache for property owners and road managers, the sediment that stormwater conveys is the largest source of nutrient pollution to the lake.
RUNOFF CONTAMINATES
Lake Threats
Phosphorus
Phosphorus limits the growth of plants and algae in most aquatic ecosystems, meaning that small increases in the amount of phosphorus lead to outsized impacts that lower water quality. Phosphorus is naturally found in soil and applied as a fertilizer. Stopping erosion and using phosphate-free fertilizers and detergents is critical.
Household Chemicals
Household chemicals ranging from pesticides to solvents to petroleum products can quickly make their way from developed areas to surface waters. Limit the use of chemical pesticides, never dump chemicals down the drain, and clean up spills immediately.
Temperature
Summer runoff from roofs and roads can be as much as 40°F warmer than the temperature of nearby surface water. When warm stormwater reaches the lake it creates conditions that favor algae and impact the lake’s coldwater fish populations.
Driveway Salt
Chloride from winter driveway salt use and water softeners persists in the environment for a long time and is toxic to aquatic life.
Shovel first and frequently, use salt sparingly, and use sand for traction on ice. A 12-ounce mug of salt is enough to treat 20 feet of driveway.
