The Lake Book

LAKE PROTECTION: TAKE ACTION
MAINE’S LAKES NEED YOU!
As part of a vibrant community of lake enthusiasts, you have the power
to change your behavior and take action to protect the health of Maine’s
lakes, for today and for future generations. Get started today with the
ideas and resources listed in this chapter.
BE LAKESMART .............................................................................. 25
Start a LakeSmart program on your lake.
BUILD BETTER BUFFERS ............................................................. 26
Maintain a deep, natural buffer with native plants.
RETIRE THE LAWN MOWER ....................................................... 30
Save time. Save money. Enjoy your lake!
MAINTAIN ROADS & DRIVEWAYS ............................................. 31
Control and capture stormwater runoff.
STOP EROSION ............................................................................... 32
Implement best management practices to reduce runoff.
CARE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS ...................................................... 34
Maintain your system on a regular schedule.
PREVENT SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES ............................ 36
Get your boat inspected. Become a volunteer monitor.
USE APPS! FIND LAKE DATA! .................................................... 39
Use technology for citizen science.
BOAT LAKE FRIENDLY ................................................................. 40
Watch your wake, and boat responsibly.
LOOK OUT FOR LOONS ................................................................ 41
Keep your distance and fish lead free.
MONITOR WATER QUALITY ....................................................... 42
Volunteer to monitor the health of your lake.
BE A LAKE ADVOCATE ................................................................. 44
Take action to protect lake health.
START A LAKE ASSOCIATION .................................................... 45
Engage your community in lake health and well-being.
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