ALERT: Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) have been observed in the south eastern end of the lake.  LEARN MORE

DONATE

Pollutants


Household Chemicals

Some chemicals used inside the house are just as toxic as outdoor chemicals. Paints, paint thinners, oven cleaners, anti-freeze, or products containing lye or strong acids must be used and disposed of with great care. If these chemicals go down the drain or into the toilet, they may be harmful.
Septic tanks are not equipped to treat them. 

What YOU Can Do

Read first: Follow the specific label instructions on how to properly dispose of household chemicals. The health of the lake depends on it.

Inquire: Check with your local transfer station for paint and chemical disposal collection options. Check Resources

Follow the law: Besides being dangerous for the environment, it is illegal to dispose of chemicals in storm drains or roadside ditches. 


PFAS (Forever Chemicals) and Microplastics

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” are
man-made chemicals used in water-, stain-, and grease-resistant consumer products like nonstick cookware, cleaning products, shampoos, and even dental floss. PFAS can migrate into the soil, water, and air during production and use, and most PFAS do not break down, so they remain in the environment. 

Microplastics are the result of everyday plastic items discarded into the environment that eventually break down into smaller and smaller fragments. These fragments spread easily and are carried by wind and runoff into the lake. Rising microplastic levels are found in fish and other wildlife around the world, with perilous outcomes possible across the entire food chain.

What YOU Can Do

Choose wisely: Cut down plastic consumption, especially single-use plastic containers. Look for compostable packaging whenever possible..

Use the tap: Plastic water bottles are a leading source of waste plastic. Re-usable water bottles same money and protect the environment. 

Be responsible: Plastic litter anywhere in the watershed can lead to microplastics reaching the lake. Pick up litter and dispose of it properly.


De-icing

De-icing crystals, liquids, salt, and sprays help keep driveways and sidewalks safe, but they are also pollutants that can be harmful to the lake. Melting snow and rain carry de-icing chemicals into storm drains, ditches, and tributaries that lead to the lake. 

What YOU Can Do

Use sparingly: De-icers are not a replacement for shoveling. Shovel first, then apply de-icer directly to the frozen surface, or apply before a storm. 

Skip the salt: Salt is the most harmful de-icer, affecting plant growth and soil. See a better list of options below.

Avoid waste and spills: A mechanical spreader will help prevent over application. 

Most Common De-icing Products:  (Listed best to worst for the lake)
  • Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA)More expensive but effective at low temperatures,
    requires less product. Does not impact water quality. 
  • Magnesium chlorideLower chloride level. Better for environment than
    rock salt.
  • Calcium chloride – More expensive than rock salt, but less product is needed. Harmful to plants because of chloride. 
  • Rock salt (sodium chloride)   – Widely used. Inexpensive. Harmful to plants due to chloride level. Toxic to underwater life.

Medications

Prescription and over the counter drugs should never be flushed or washed down the drain. Medical compounds may have adverse effects on plants or animals and affect water quality. Always dispose of medications responsibly.

How do I get rid of medicine?

Other Pollutants

  • Pet Waste: Pick up after your dog and deposit the excrement in the trash so it doesn’t get washed into the lake or a stream that feeds into the lake.
  • Food Waste: Compost or throw out food waste instead of putting it through a garbage disposal. This reduces the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater and also helps extend the life of a septic system.
  • Soaps: Do not shower in the lake. Soap products can be toxic to aquatic animals
  • Grease or Oils: Don’t pour cooking grease or oil down the sink or toilet, instead put grease in a container to harden before discarding in the trash.
  • Fire Ashes: Clean up your campfire ashes after a fire. Ashes can wash into the lake and carry nutrients and pollutants with them.
DONATE
BECOME A MEMBER