Protecting Lakeshores: A Growing Focus on Water Quality and Ecosystem Health
As development pressures increase around lakes nationwide, a growing emphasis is being placed on protecting shoreland areas. These fragile ecosystems play a critical role in maintaining water quality, providing habitat for fish and wildlife, and supporting recreational activities. Experts and property owners alike are recognizing the importance of implementing best management practices (BMPs) to safeguard these valuable resources.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2010 National Lakes Assessment revealed a stark correlation between lakeshore habitat quality and overall lake health. The assessment found that lakes with poor lakeshore habitat were three times more likely to be in poor biological condition compared to those with good quality shorelands. This underscores the vital role that vegetation along the water’s edge plays in filtering pollutants and stabilizing the soil.
“Increasing development pressures are putting our lakes in peril,” according to resources from the EPA. Replacing natural vegetation with lawns, clearing vegetation at the water’s edge, and constructing structures like bulkheads can all negatively impact lake ecosystems. These actions remove natural buffers that protect the lake from runoff and erosion.
Nutrient Control is Key
Maintaining healthy lakes hinges on limiting the influx of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. Nitrogen is commonly found in fertilizers and can enter lakes through improper septic runoff. Phosphorus, often present in detergents, also contributes to excessive plant and algae growth. Limiting these nutrients is a central tenet of lake protection efforts.
Several practices can help minimize nutrient and sediment erosion. These include regularly inspecting and maintaining septic systems, upgrading outdated systems, and pumping septic tanks as recommended by service providers. Avoiding the use of fertilizers and cultivating shore fronts with native vegetation are also crucial steps.
Simple habits can also make a difference. Experts advise against bathing, shampooing, or washing pets or vehicles in or near the lake, as soaps and detergents can contaminate the water. Using low- or non-phosphate detergents in washing machines and dishwashers is another recommended practice.
Best Management Practices for Shoreland Protection
A range of BMPs are available to landowners and communities seeking to protect their lakeshores. These include maintaining buffer zones of native plants along the shore, creating rain gardens to capture runoff, and minimizing land clearing. Revegetating bare areas and designing curving paths or walkways can also reduce erosion.
Vermont’s Lake Wise program offers a comprehensive set of best management practices targeted at lakeshore landowners. The program emphasizes that even those who don’t directly live on the lake can contribute to water quality protection through responsible land management practices. The program’s techniques aim to promote good water quality, aquatic habitat, fishing, swimming, boating, and other recreational activities.
Specific BMPs highlighted by Lake Wise and other resources include bioengineering techniques, conserving and protecting lakeshores, lake-friendly yard maintenance, and low-impact lake access solutions. These solutions range from live stakes and fascines to infiltration steps, permeable pavers, and downspout disconnection.
The Economic Value of Healthy Lakeshores
Protecting lakeshores isn’t just an environmental imperative; it’s also a sound economic investment. Studies have shown that decreasing water clarity can lead to a decline in lake property values. Maintaining healthy shoreland vegetation helps preserve water quality and, the value of lakeside properties.
Lakefront property generates significant revenue, and preserving the health of these ecosystems is essential for sustaining that economic benefit. By implementing best management practices and promoting responsible stewardship, communities can ensure that their lakes remain valuable assets for generations to come.
The EPA provides resources and guidance for lake shoreland protection and restoration, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between property owners, local governments, and environmental organizations. Protecting these vital ecosystems requires a collective effort to ensure clean water and healthy lake environments.
