Infiltration steps slow down and soak up runoff water. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AC TON WAKEFIELD WATERSHEDS ALLIANCE YOUTH CONSERVATION CORPS. AWWATERSHEDS.ORG.
• For
paths with moderate to steep slopes, install water bars to divert water off the path and into vegetated areas. For more information, visit nhlakes.org/lakesmart.
Pick up pet and livestock waste. • Pet
and livestock waste contains nutrients and bacteria that pollute waterbodies. Make sure waste is not left on the ground or piled where it could be washed away by runoff water.
Prevent toxic chemicals from leaking onto the ground. • Ensure
that all exterior oil and gas tanks and storage containers are not rusty, are covered, and are not located where falling snow and ice could hit them.
Along the Shoreline If you live along a lake, pond, river, or stream, the area along the shoreline is the last line of defense in helping to keep the water clean and healthy. There are several actions you can take in this area to reduce the amount of nutrients, soil, and other pollutants that reach the lake. There are also several things you can avoid doing in the shallow area of the water to help keep the lake healthy, too. If you own or manage shoreline property, there are two important laws you will want to know about:
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