Property Maintenance Ideas to Reduce Invasive Lake Plants

Every property owner in the Ballston Lake Watershed can help reduce invasive weeds and algae in the
lake by following good property maintenance practices. Non point sources of pollution result in excessive
nutrients washing into the lake during rain and snow events. These non point sources are lawn chemicals,
garden pesticides, pet wastes, auto products on the driveway, and septic effluent from poorly functioning
systems.
As the Town develops a sewer system in the Ballston Lake watershed, residents must still practice
best maintenance practice of their present septic system. The earliest this sewer system may be in
operation is 2021. A poorly working septic system can release harmful bacteria that can cause illness and
result in polluted drinking water in your well. Septic systems are a source of phosphorous, nitrogen, organic
matter, bacteria and viral pathogens that can enter the lake. Not only is it a health concern, septic systems
contribute to the growth of invasive plants and algae.
The practices to follow to reduce this non point pollution are:
1. Have septic tank pumped every 3 years, unless you use a garbage disposal. Then pump it every year.
2. Pick up pet wastes and dispose in toilet or trash
3. Use phosphorus free fertilizers in lawn and garden
4. Direct rainwater from roofs and driveway away from streams and the lake, and the septic system.
5. Rake , bag and remove leaves and organic debris away from the lake’s shoreline
6. Stabilize shoreline to prevent erosion and sedimentation of soils into the lake
7. Establish a shrub and vegetation buffer near lake or stream banks to hold the soil
8. Dispose of chemicals and expired medicines at turn in events not “down the drain”