Tips to keep Walnut Lake clean and healthy

For all residents near Walnut Lake

• Minimize or eliminate the use of fertilizers; if needed, use only phosphorous-free fertilizers (look for fertilizers with a middle number of 0, e.g. 26-0-3). Also, look for organic-based fertilizers or fertilizers with slow-release nitrogen sometimes listed as water-insoluble nitrogen (WIN).
• Stop the use of pesticides, especially DDT, Chlordane and Lindane.
• Keep storm water clean. Do not wash detergents, oils or any chemicals into gutters. Clean-up oil spills and eliminate/repair automotive fluid leaks. Consider washing your car on your lawn instead of on your driveway (or, go to a commercial car wash).
• Minimize stormwater quantity by using natural landscaping and minimizing impervious surfaces on your property.
• Properly dispose of pet waste and pick up after your pets regularly; pet waste is a contaminate that contains phosphorous and harmful bacteria which can transfer to the lake through storm water.
• If you have a septic system, have it pumped by a licensed pumper on a regular basis and, long term, consider hooking up to the community sewage system.

For lakefront Walnut lake residents (in addition to the items above):

• Do not use any fertilizers within 50ft of the shoreline and eliminate all phosphorous content
• Within 10ft of the shoreline, leave your lawn in its natural state and consider planting green belts. Natural vegetation helps filter runoff water and prevent erosion.
• Keep pet waste as far away from the shoreline as possible.
• Do not dispose of leaves or compost in the lake.
• Do not burn leaves or have firepits within 50ft of the shoreline. Ash is very high in phosphates and other harmful substances.