7102-R4_LSLA_2020_SummerNewsletter_Web

2020 Watershed Report Connection between Care and Health of Little Sebago Lake

What goes on in our lake watershed has a direct cause and effect result in our lake. The watershed reaches to the highest points surrounding the lake which creates a downward drain into the lake; sometimes miles away. Whatever activity happens in this area affects our water body. Erosion and soil washing into the lake is most visible for contamination but there are other influences, too. • It can include chemicals like pesticides, fertilizers, soaps from washing cars, houses, decks, pet- the list can go on. • Make sure fuel storage is not leaking and use fertilizers that ae phosphorous free • Try to use organic biodegradable cleaners for boats, cars, decks, roofs, docks, etc. As you prepare the area of entry into the water this spring, think of ways to divert water that has caused erosion on your beach taking that precious soil into the lake. • Plant shrub, native plants or trees to absorb the nutrients and keep the tree canopy to slow down the rain from hitting the soil. • Keep as much natural duff to slow the speed of it getting to the water. Or add bark mulch or pea stone to erosion areas. • Utilize water bars placed diagonally in a down sloped area to divert running water. • Create rain gardens which are areas the water can be pooled, absorbed into the ground, and filtered before getting into the lake. They can add aesthetic value by adding plants like lilies that create color in the summer. • A fun family project is to do a rainy day survey. Find out where those rain rivers are going. To help accomplish this LSLA has a watershed cost share program to provide assistance on how we can work together to achieve erosion and sediment control. Do you have an eroding driveway, path, trenches under the roof drip line, exposed roots or bare soil? The program is an easy way to simple remedies that will make a big difference. Please get in touch through the website, phone or email. Send us photos and describe what you see and what to accomplish-we will try to help you make the improvements. LakeSmart is an education and reward program that assists lakefront homeowners manage landscapes in ways that protect water quality. The program is free, non-regulatory and voluntary. Learn about the impacts of sand and unbuffered shorelines to our lake, milfoil and algae growth www.mainelakessociety.org . “Our lake is our front yard, sidewalk, community playground. Let’s all give it the attention it deserves.” Scott Lowell quote. I welcome you to be part of the solution- Pam Wilkinson Contact sources: info@littlesebagolake.com , PH-207-809-4706, www.littlesebagolake.com When you enter the water at your beach area, turn around and look back to see how these things can reach your shoreline and what simple ways you can implement to LOVE YOUR LOT and make a difference to your swim area. Controlling how we treat the watershed is vital to our lake’s health for generations to come.

27