KEEPING OUR LAKE HEALTHY
One of the significant threats to our lake is unbalanced algae growth and Harmful Algae Blooms. Some of the products we use impact this issue. Caitlin Stewart, a District Manager from the Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District, spoke at the LACA Annual Meeting on August 14, 2016. Here are the main points from her presentation, "Love Your Lake":
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While algae is naturally occurring, it can get out of balance if there are too many nutrients are in the water. The main culprits of this are Phosphorous Sources (fertilizer, detergents, leaking septic systems) and De-icers.
Detergents, Hand Soaps, and Shampoos
NYS law banned phosphorous in detergents, but other states don't. Hand soaps and shampoos also may contain phosphorous (or "phosphate"). We need to be very cautious in using these products near the lake. If you wash your hair in the lake, make sure to use non phosphorus shampoos and soaps. |
Leaking Septic Systems
To detect leaking septic systems, the Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District can provide orange dye pellets that can be flushed into your septic system. If leaks exist you will see the evidence. To request a dye kit, contact HCSWCD at hcswcd@frontiernet.net or (518) 548-3991. Each kit is $5.
To detect leaking septic systems, the Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District can provide orange dye pellets that can be flushed into your septic system. If leaks exist you will see the evidence. To request a dye kit, contact HCSWCD at hcswcd@frontiernet.net or (518) 548-3991. Each kit is $5.
De-Icers
This is mainly road salt, and also de-icer products used on your property. If possible, use more sand instead of de-icer products.
This is mainly road salt, and also de-icer products used on your property. If possible, use more sand instead of de-icer products.
Weather conditions also cause increased algae. Hot, dry spells can increase algae growth, as can heavy rains resulting in more runoff.
If anyone suspects that they have seen or come into contact with a Harmful Algae Bloom, please report the bloom to the NYS-DEC. Fill out and submit a Suspicious Algal Bloom Report Form. We (Lake Abanakee) are Region 5 of DEC.