As we watch the lake thaw, let’s not forget our responsibility to care for its environmental health. We can have beautiful green lawns without jeopardizing the fragile balance of Highland Lake. Most nonorganic fertilizers are high in nutrients that promote plant and algae growth in our lake. Unchecked growth will severely limit the boating and swimming activities that make our summers so enjoyable. The application of Diquat in the past years to retard plant growth is testament to the fact too many nutrients are entering the lake. We all need to do our part in preserving the beauty and health of this natural resource. Living on Highland Lake is a privilege that should not be taken for granted.

Be careful with any fertilizer application if you use it at all, but if you do use a fertilizer, use one with low levels of nitrogen and phosphorous, safer than traditional fertilizers that can poison the lake. You can reduce lawn size by creating “buffer gardens” near your waterfront; plant ground covers such as pachysandra, decorative grasses or low-growing shrubs. Create an interesting texture and soak up phosphates and nitrates before they enter the lake.

Other ideas to help the lake environment: clean your gutters, clear road sand and debris from storm drains on the road near your property, rake and dispose of leaves away from the lake’s perimeter, continue to clean up pet waste, and read labels on all products you use outdoors to determine if the contents are safe for the lake environment.