LSPA’s “Let’s Be Clear” Campaign
“Let’s Be Clear” is a public awareness campaign designed to raise awareness about what you can do to improve water quality. Our lakes are facing many threats right now but simple choices we all make on our properties can have a big impact.
Let’s Be Clear!
Water quality in many New Hampshire lakes, ponds and streams is in decline
Contaminated runoff degrades water quality and can cause algal and cyanobacteria blooms
We can each help to reverse this trend by choosing actions that protect water quality.
Inaction will be devastating to our natural resources and economy.
Primary causes of water quality decline may include:
Excess nutrients, such as phosphorus, from fertilizers and cleaning products running into waterbodies during a storm event.
Erosion of soil into waterways from land disturbances and construction activities which is further exacerbated by missing or malfunctioning erosion control barriers.
Seepage from septic systems that have not been properly maintained.
Salt used to melt ice on our roads and walkways.
An increase in impermeable surfaces, such as pavement, which leads to nutrient pollution in our waterbodies.
A reduction of trees, shrubs and other vegetation along the water’s edge that help soak in stormwater
What can an individual do to help?
Test your soil before applying any fertilizer, switch to phosphorus-free products, or eliminate their use
Maintain your septic or sewer system regularly
Plant/maintain trees and shrubs along shorelines and reduce large lawns
Cover bare soil with plants and mulch
Follow state and local tree cutting & construction rules. Obtain and adhere to all required permits.
Use safe alternatives to pesticides and herbicides
Pick up pet waste
Use less salt or alternatives on your driveway and walkways
Minimize the use of dock de-icers by utilizing timers and thermostats
Participate in LSPA’s Watershed Wise Program
Click here to download a copy of LSPA’s informational card on Let’s Be Clear.
“Let’s Be Clear” on YCN
Click here to watch LSPA Watershed Committee Co-Chair Stu Greer talk about the “Let’s Be Clear” campaign on YCN.
Click here to watch a video with LSPA Vice-President Kirk Bishop (and former Co-Chair of the Watershed Committee) explaining some of the issues and how we can help.
If you would like a volunteer to give a “Let’s Be Clear” presentation to your group, please send an email to Susie at susieb@lakesunapee.org.