7102-R4_LSLA_2020_SummerNewsletter_Web

DO NOT PUT SAND INTO THE LAKE - WHY? During the summer we are asked to look at plants at various shorelines around the lake to see if it is invasive milfoil. We have found new beds of milfoil only to find a new sandy beach right in front of it. Below are reasons for not only plant impacts but other impacts that have a long term detriment to our lake. Sand ACTS LIKE FERTILIZER- both contain phosphorous, which causes increased growth of native and invasive plants. Sand rich in iron encourages iron bacteria which creates rust colored slime and oil-like film. • MAKES OUR LAKE AND COVES SHALLOWER -smothers bottom-dwelling invertebrates, reduces the amount of aquatic and shoreline habitat for fish and crayfish, destroys spawning and nesting sites for reptiles and amphibians, and disrupts the food chain. Fine sand particles suspended in clouded water may clog the gills of our lake fish that are not adapted to a sandy environment. This threatens our fish. • LESS VOLUME OF WATER TO DILUTE TOXINS- Shallow water is warmer, supports algae growth and is lower in oxygen, conditions that are detrimental to our fish. Shallower water has less volume in which toxins can be diluted. • CLARITY- Cloudy water with suspended particles prevents the UV light from disinfecting bacteria, and increased microbial pathogens are possible. • LOWER SANDY NARROWS- Eventually, sand is carried to the Lower Sandy Narrows, which causes costly removal to allow for navigation. You may replace the natural sand that has washed in the lake from erosion back onto your beach using hand tools only. If you have a large project near the shoreline, you will need to apply for a Permit by Rule from Maine DEP. Check your local ordinances. By controlling the use of sand on our beaches, we can reduce the amount of phosphorus we add to the lake and help to prevent additional silting and maintain water depth, temperature, clarity and quality. This will help control algae and weed growth as well as help restore the natural chemistry of the lake; something that is important for fish and other invertebrates that call Little Sebago Lake home. The lake is our community’s greatest asset – let’s all do our part to keep it healthy.

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