Don’t Rake Into the Lake

As fall approaches, it’s tempting to rake leaves and yard debris toward the shoreline but what seems like a harmless shortcut can have an impact on lake water quality.
Leaves, grass clippings, and other organic material contain nutrients. When they wash or are blown into the lake, those nutrients can contribute to excessive plant and algae growth. Decaying organic material can also affect water clarity and oxygen levels.

The simple solution? Keep yard waste out of the lake.
Instead of raking leaves into the water, collect them for composting, use them as mulch, or dispose of them according to local guidelines. And when possible, leave a natural buffer of native vegetation along the shoreline. It can help slow runoff and capture nutrients before they reach the water.

A little extra effort in the yard can make a big difference in the lake.
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Don’t rake into the lake. Keep those nutrients on land—and help keep our lakes clear.