May 15, 2013
From: FBL Science Committee
To: Bolton Lakes Watershed Homeowners
Lawn Care and Property Management in a Watershed
It is important to remember that the movement of nutrients from all properties (not just water front) in the watershed region of the BoltonLakes can affect the water quality and recreational viability of the lakes. One key element of nutrient control is the care we provide to nurture the growth of our lawns. Excess nutrients, whether organic or artificial, can be extracted from the lawn by flowing drainage water and enter the watershed system to support the growth of both native and invasive weeds and algae. The manifestations of this process are most clear after heavy rain events when waters move through the watershed carrying nutrients and contaminants on roads and into streams and ultimately into the lakes.
Recent Connecticut law has prohibited the sale of lawn fertilizers that contain phosphorous. However, nitrogen also is a prime supporter of aquatic weed growth as are naturally occurring sources of both of these nutrients. Thus, management of water flow that may be carrying nutrients is important.
The following resources are useful in providing guidance:
1. University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service's "Water Quality and Home Landscape" website. http://www.sustainability.uconn.edu/sustain/sustainfact.html
2. Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection report "Caring for Our Lakes".
3, The Candlewood Lake News special edition "Candlewood Lake Buffer Guidelines".
Recognizing and Monitoring the Occurrence of Blue-Green Algae on Lakes
Lakes contain many forms of algae that, when in balance, are part of a healthy ecosystem. However, when blue-green algae appear in abundance, the possibility of significant concentrations of toxins arises as was seen during the summer of 2012 in Lower Bolton Lake.
Many other lakes in Connecticut and elsewhere are dealing with this concern. As a local example, you have probably seen ponds in our region that appear completely coated with a green coating in late summer.
The following brief guide created by the Lake Champlain Committee in support of their motto "Science-based Advocacy for a Clean, Accessible Lake" may be of help. "Recognizing Blue Green Algae in Lake Champlain".
In addition, you might want to see how this group of concerned residents has come together to create a Blue Green Algae Monitoring Program. Should our blue-green algae difficulties continue, this group may prove an interesting model for us to emulate. Notice their 2012 Summary Results.
From: FBL Science Committee
To: Bolton Lakes Watershed Homeowners
Lawn Care and Property Management in a Watershed
It is important to remember that the movement of nutrients from all properties (not just water front) in the watershed region of the BoltonLakes can affect the water quality and recreational viability of the lakes. One key element of nutrient control is the care we provide to nurture the growth of our lawns. Excess nutrients, whether organic or artificial, can be extracted from the lawn by flowing drainage water and enter the watershed system to support the growth of both native and invasive weeds and algae. The manifestations of this process are most clear after heavy rain events when waters move through the watershed carrying nutrients and contaminants on roads and into streams and ultimately into the lakes.
Recent Connecticut law has prohibited the sale of lawn fertilizers that contain phosphorous. However, nitrogen also is a prime supporter of aquatic weed growth as are naturally occurring sources of both of these nutrients. Thus, management of water flow that may be carrying nutrients is important.
The following resources are useful in providing guidance:
1. University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service's "Water Quality and Home Landscape" website. http://www.sustainability.uconn.edu/sustain/sustainfact.html
2. Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection report "Caring for Our Lakes".
3, The Candlewood Lake News special edition "Candlewood Lake Buffer Guidelines".
Recognizing and Monitoring the Occurrence of Blue-Green Algae on Lakes
Lakes contain many forms of algae that, when in balance, are part of a healthy ecosystem. However, when blue-green algae appear in abundance, the possibility of significant concentrations of toxins arises as was seen during the summer of 2012 in Lower Bolton Lake.
Many other lakes in Connecticut and elsewhere are dealing with this concern. As a local example, you have probably seen ponds in our region that appear completely coated with a green coating in late summer.
The following brief guide created by the Lake Champlain Committee in support of their motto "Science-based Advocacy for a Clean, Accessible Lake" may be of help. "Recognizing Blue Green Algae in Lake Champlain".
In addition, you might want to see how this group of concerned residents has come together to create a Blue Green Algae Monitoring Program. Should our blue-green algae difficulties continue, this group may prove an interesting model for us to emulate. Notice their 2012 Summary Results.