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Storm-water runoff, the more modern term for non-point-source pollution, is
the culprit that carries many nutrient chemicals into our lakes. Phosphorus and
Nitrogen are by far the most common of these elements that limit or control the
amount and rate of plant growth in aquatic systems. Phosphorous appears to be
key. In excess it can contribute to algal blooms, poor water clarity, and
reduction of dissolved oxygen that may cause extinction of other organisms.
Lake ecology, the relationship between living things and their environment,
is not so simple as pointing a finger at Phosphorous makes it sound, but levels
of that one chemical is by far the best single indicator of what we call "water
quality."
The water quality monitors which VLMP sponsors throughout the state, various
agency personnel, and the Gloeotrichia study discussed elsewhere on this website
all feature phosphorous measurement at the top of their task lists.
"So what can I do about that?" you ask.
You can can contribute to the solution rather than the problem by limiting
what people do to make it easy for ground water to sweep phosphorous and other
chemicals down your camp roads, across your lawns and gardens, along your paths,
and into the lake.
You may be surprised to learn how you can fit into the care and construction
of camp roads or how you can nurture a good buffer against runoff along the edge
of your lakeshore property.
LakeSmart Program
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