Taking Control of the Future of Sherman Lake
In addition, there are several key things we can all begin doing immediately to
contribute to the health of the lake. Review this page for information and ideas.
Five Things We Can All Do to Make a Difference
1. Reduce/Eliminate The Use of Fertilizers Containing Phosphorus
Green Lawns =
Green Lakes! Lawn and garden fertilizers are also lake weed and algea fertilizers. In particular, phosphorus is like JUNK FOOD
for lake weeds and algea. Just one pound of phosphorus can produce 10,000 pounds of wet weeds and algae! Phosphorus is the "middle"
number listed on lawn and garden fertilizers. The best option is no fertilizer usage within 400 feet of the lake or zero phosphorous
fertilizers. Major lawn and garden stores should carry zero phosphorus fertilizers. We will provide a list of confirmed
local sources on the website as spring approaches. For more information on keeping your lawn beautiful without phosphorus, click here.
The best alternative of all is to use an irrigation pump and use lakewater to water and feed your lawn and garden. The
lake water will provide your lawn and garden with all the nutrients needed while taking phosphorous and other nutrients out of the
lake!
2. Keep Leaves and Clippings Out of The Lake
It goes without saying that we can't prevent leaves from falling into the lake.
However, we certainly don't want to make the problem worse by dumping leaves or lawn clippings into the lake. As a lake property
owner, you can make a contribution by dumping leaves and lawn clippings at least 400 feet from the lake and by removing branches,
leaves and weeds from your shoreline and swimming areas.
Also, do not burn leaves and brush within 400 feet of the lake.
The ash contains high concentrations of phosphorus. If washed into the lake by a heavy rain, it is like dumping fertilizer right into
the lake!
3. Keep Your Septic System Maintained
Keeping your septic system in good order is critical to improving the water
quality of Sherman Lake. Migrating to the central sewer system over time will certainly have a positive impact on the lake. However,
we all recognize that this represents a major financial decision for residents. Keep in mind that once the program is implemented
any homes with failing septic systems will be required to connect to the sewer. Therefore, it is in everyone's best interest
to keep our systems in good working order to prevent seepage into the lake and keep the choice in our own hands as to when conversion
to the sewer will be necessary. For helpful information on maintaining and troubleshooting septic systems, click here. For more
information in the public sewer plan, click here.
4. Redesign Your Landscaping and Improve Your Shoreline and Swimming Areas
If
you are planning major landscape or sea wall changes, consider developing a "lake friendly" landscape and sea wall plan. Lake friendly
design features include reducing the amount of lawn area, planting "buffer zones" along the shoreline and "water gardens"
to catch heavy runoff from roofs, driveways and steep slopes. A great place to start learning about these alternatives can be
found here. Additional information can be found on the Kellogg Biological Station Website, at Rain Gardens of West Michigan and
on the links page. If you would like assistance in developing your site plan contact us and we will help you find the information
and expertise you need.
You can improve your shoreline and swim areas, while improving the health of the lake. Michigan DEQ regulations
permit homeowners to maintain their beaches and swim areas. Raking/removing weeds does not require a permit. Herbicides
(chemicals) are not allowed without a permit from the Michigan DEQ. A great place for information, tools and equipment to
clean up your beach and swimming area is Lake Weeders Digest.
5. Get Involved!
Sherman Lake needs you! Get involved
in the effort to improve the lake. Specific areas where help is needed include:
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Grant research and proposal development
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Fundraising
ideas
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Resident communication and education
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Donations to support the development of the Lake Management Plan and testing of alternative
treatment methods in 2007
