Wishing for a healthy, joyful 2025 with clear lake waters. You can help it happen by including some stewardship resolutions to your list of resolutions this year. If we reduce phosphorus pollution, it should limit the amount of lake plants and algae, since they use phosphorus to grow. Here are some possible resolutions:

  1. Get pumped! If I haven’t pumped recently or don’t know when I last pumped, I’ll pump out my septic tank and have it inspected. I’ll learn more about the sewer proposal too.
  2. I’ll create a buffer of native plants to slow the flow of rainwater (and phosphorus pollution carried by that runoff) into catch basins and lakes. A buffer is especially important along lake shorelines!
  3. I’ll limit polluted runoff. I’ll cover bare spots with plants or mulch; I’ll let leaves stay in place where appropriate under trees and in plant beds.
  4. I’ll pick up after my pets and throw their poop in the trash. I won’t release any aquarium pets or plants into the lakes.
  5. I’ll grow my grass longer to help shade out weeds without the use of pesticides, and I will overseed or leave cuttings on the grass to limit the need for fertilizer.
  6. Be boat smart. I’ll get boat stickers for any new boats, and make sure they are checked, cleaned and dried so I don’t bring invasive species to our lakes.
  7. I’ll learn more about our lakes’ history, health, plants, or animals this year.
  8. I’ll volunteer to help around the lakes. Some options to consider: helping the beaver crew remove debris, sending photos or writing an article for the Three Lakes Council newsletter, submitting reports on harmful algal blooms, helping out at the annual potluck. And more! Contact threelakescouncil@gmail.com to volunteer.

Thanks for considering these resolutions, and for all you do for our lakes! For those who want to donate to the Three Lakes Council, you can send a check to Three Lakes Council, PO Box 241, South Salem, NY 10590 or donate online using paypal.