Simple steps for protecting water quality

For many families, Memorial Day weekend means going to the lake and getting the cabin and yard ready for summertime fun.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MCPA) reminds Minnesotans that the quality of life at the lake depends, in part, on the quality of water in the lake. With more and more people enjoying Minnesota lakes, some are suffering from pollution, mainly nutrients from yard run off. Here are some things families can do this Memorial Day weekend and throughout the summer to help reduce and prevent pollution.

— Don’t mow by the shore. Letting a strip of vegetation grow along the shore helps keep fertilizer and soil out of the lake. Vegetated buffer strips also discourage ducks and geese from visiting the yard. The De­partment of Natural Re­sources Web site (www.dnr. state.mn.us) has information on how to “Restore Your Shore” to an attractive but more natural state that will protect water quality. Also, leaving shallow water aquatic plants in place provides great habitat for fish and, hence, entertainment for grandkids on the dock.

— Avoid fertilizing the lawn. Nutrient run off is a primary source of water pollution.

— When collecting leaves and grass clippings, rake or blow them away from the lake and/or bag and dispose of them away from the lake. Grass and leaves can carry nutrients into the water and take oxygen out of the water as they decompose.

— When enjoying an outdoor fire at the lake or when camping, remember that burning any garbage (plastic and styrofoam, etc.) is illegal statewide because it is extremely unhealthy, especially for children. For more information on obtaining the appropriate permit to safely burn approved vegetation, contact the local fire marshal or Department of Natural Resources office. Permits are also available at many convenience stores.

— Don’t drain old gas from a mower or outboard onto the ground; use it up by mixing with fresh fuel or add it to the fuel in your car or truck.

— Take care of the septic tank. It needs to be pumped occasionally or waste solids could reach a drainfield and clog it, requiring a very expensive fix or replacement. How often it needs to be pumped depends on how much it’s used. Seasonal properties may get by for years without pumping. Others may need to be pumped regularly if a lot of water is used. Ask the county or University of Minnesota Extension Service.

— Does your lake have an association? Consider joining it or starting one. Water quality is one of the primary concerns for such groups.

— Become a volunteer water monitor. The MPCA has volunteer monitoring programs to help track water clarity in both lakes and streams, and welcomes new volunteers.

Summer is a good time to remember that our quality of life at the lake depends on the quality of water in the lake. Give extra thought to how you can protect your lake’s water quality as you get ready for warm weather fun.

Minnesotans love our lakes. Keeping them clean is everybody’s job.

For more information on how to protect lakes and improve water quality, check the MPCA’s Web site at www.pca.state.mn.us /water/lake.html