LSPA’s “Let’s Be Clear” Campaign 

Let’s Be Clear that . . .

• The water quality of NH lakes, ponds and streams is in decline; we should all be very concerned

• Runoff carrying contaminants degrades water quality and leads to algae and cyanobacteria blooms

• There are ways to reverse this trend by choosing personal actions to protect water quality

• Inaction would be devastating to our natural resources and our entire local economy

The primary causes of water quality decline are:

• Nutrients in fertilizers and cleaning products, such as Phosphorus, that runoff into waterbodies

• Erosion of soil into waterways from land disturbances and construction activities which is further exacerbated by missing or malfunctioning erosion control barriers

• Seepage from septic systems that have not been properly maintained

• Salt used to melt ice on our roads and walkways

• Increased water impermeable surfaces, such as pavement

• Reduction of trees, shrubs and other vegetation

What can an individual do to help?

➢ Test your soil before applying any fertilizer, switch to phosphorus-free products, or eliminate their use

➢ Use safe alternatives to pesticides and herbicides

➢ Follow state and local building and tree cutting regulations; obtain and adhere to all required permits

➢ Maintain your septic system and have it routinely pumped and inspected

➢ Don’t feed the waterfowl

➢ Use less salt or alternatives on your driveway and walkways

➢ Plant/maintain trees and shrubs along shorelines and reduce large lawns

➢ Minimize use of dock de-icers by utilizing timers and thermostats

➢ Make your voice heard!

➢ Participate in LSPA’s Watershed Wise Program

”Let’s Be Clear” on YCN

Click here to watch LSPA Watershed Committee Co-Chair Stu Greer talk about the “Let’s Be Clear” campaign on YCN.

Click here to watch a video with Kirk Bishop, LSPA Watershed Committee Co-Chair, explaining some of the issues and how we can help.