Helena Joyce
Cleaning a polluted lake is a challenging task that requires collective efforts from communities, organizations, and industries. Pollution in lakes, such as the Great Lakes, can be caused by industrial and agricultural operations, as well as improper waste disposal. To address this issue, individuals can play a crucial role by reducing pollution in their daily lives, properly disposing of hazardous substances, and minimizing the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, upgrading wastewater treatment facilities can help remove pollutants like phosphorus, which contributes to excessive algae growth. Communities can also organize training programs and workshops to educate citizens about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices, such as planting trees to prevent soil erosion and absorb chemicals before they reach waterways. Governments and industries should work together to implement regulations and remedial action plans, as exemplified by the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement between Canada and the United States.
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What You'll Learn
Stop dumping waste into storm drains
Preventing the dumping of waste into storm drains is a critical step in maintaining the cleanliness of lakes and waterways. Storm sewers often run directly into streams and lakes, allowing dumped waste to bypass wastewater treatment plants and enter these natural bodies of water untreated. This untreated waste carries pollutants that can have detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems and those who rely on the waterways for recreation.
One way to stop the dumping of waste into storm drains is to raise awareness about the issue and educate the public about the consequences of their actions. Signage near storm drains can help remind people that these drains lead directly to waterways and are not connected to wastewater treatment facilities. Community education campaigns can also inform residents about the proper disposal methods for various types of waste, such as motor oil, batteries, paint, herbicides, pesticides, and swimming pool chemicals.
In addition to public education, implementing measures to reduce waste at the source is crucial. For example, homeowners should be encouraged to sweep lawn debris, such as grass and tree clippings, onto their lawns instead of into storm drains. This practice prevents excess nutrients from entering waterways and promoting the growth of algae, which can have negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Similarly, pet owners should be reminded to pick up after their pets, as rain can wash parasites and bacteria from pet waste into local waterways, harming recreational users and degrading stream ecosystems.
Businesses also have a responsibility to prevent waste from entering storm drains. They should ensure that all outdoor waste receptacles are properly maintained and kept closed to prevent leaks and spills. Businesses should also provide customers with adequate trash and cigarette litter receptacles to discourage littering and perform regular litter cleanups on their premises. By taking these proactive measures, businesses can help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in storm drains and, ultimately, in lakes and waterways.
By raising awareness, educating the public, and implementing preventive measures, we can effectively stop the dumping of waste into storm drains, contributing to the overall health and cleanliness of our lakes and waterways. It is important to remember that the pollution entering our waterways is not just from illegal dumping but also from everyday activities. Therefore, collective action and responsible waste management practices are key to making a positive impact on our environment.
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Reduce use of fertilisers and pesticides
Reducing the use of fertilisers and pesticides is essential to preventing water pollution and keeping lakes clean. Excessive fertiliser and pesticide use in agriculture contribute to nutrient pollution in water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and groundwater. This occurs when fertilised soils and animal waste from farms are washed into waterways by rainfall, a process known as agricultural runoff.
Fertilisers contain nutrients such as phosphates and nitrates, which act as contaminants when they reach excessive levels in water bodies. These nutrients promote the growth of aquatic plants, leading to an increase in algae blooms. While some algae are beneficial to the ecosystem, excessive algae growth can harm habitats and reduce the oxygen available for other aquatic life, potentially suffocating fish and other species. Additionally, certain types of algae, such as blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and livestock. These toxins can cause rashes, nausea, and respiratory problems in humans who come into contact with or consume polluted water.
To reduce fertiliser and pesticide use, farmers can adopt nutrient management techniques. This involves applying nutrients in the right amounts, at the appropriate times of the year, with suitable methods, and in the correct placement. Implementing conservation tillage practices can also help by reducing the frequency and intensity of tilling, improving soil health, and minimising erosion, runoff, and soil compaction. As a result, there is a lower likelihood of nutrients reaching waterways through runoff.
Another strategy is to ensure year-round ground cover by planting cover crops or perennial species. This prevents periods of bare ground when the soil is most susceptible to erosion and nutrient loss into waterways. Planting field buffers, such as trees, shrubs, and grasses, along the edges of fields, especially those bordering water bodies, can also act as a natural barrier to nutrient loss.
By reducing the use of fertilisers and pesticides through these sustainable agricultural practices, we can effectively minimise nutrient pollution in lakes and other water sources, protecting both the environment and human health.
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Service your septic system
Servicing your septic system is critical to protecting groundwater, lakes, streams, and human health. Septic systems are used by more than 600,000 homes and businesses in Minnesota alone, treating an estimated 42 billion gallons of wastewater annually. A poorly functioning septic system can contaminate water bodies and groundwater with pathogens, nutrients, and chemicals, causing environmental and health risks.
To maintain your septic system, it is recommended to minimize the use of harsh cleaners, bleach, antibacterial soaps, and detergents. Avoid disposing of paints, medications, chemicals, grease, lint, food, feminine hygiene products, and plastics through the septic system. Pump solids through the tank's maintenance hole regularly, advised at least every three years, and avoid doing so through inspection pipes. Install and insulate risers for improved access to the maintenance hole.
Have a professional inspect the baffles when the tank is pumped, and install an effluent screen to be serviced as needed. Avoid using tank additives or cleaners, and maintain grass, native grasses, or flowers over the treatment area, mowing without fertilizing, watering, or burning. Do not plant trees, shrubs, or deep-rooted plants near the treatment area, and keep playgrounds and heavy vehicles away from it.
Additionally, limit the use of garbage disposals, as they contribute to the accumulation of solids in the tank. Inspect your septic system regularly, advised at least every three years, and pump out the tank when sludge and scum endanger the soil treatment system. Keep maintenance records and note repairs and tank conditions. Efficient water use also improves the operation of a septic system and reduces the risk of malfunctions.
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$10.48 $11.42
Upgrade wastewater treatment facilities
Wastewater treatment facilities play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, especially in lakes. However, many of these facilities are ageing and in need of upgrades to prevent environmental disasters and improve their efficiency.
Upgrading wastewater treatment facilities can be an expensive endeavour, but it is crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability of our water resources. The first step is to identify the reasons for the upgrade and develop a comprehensive plan. This involves conducting an environmental site assessment and studying the nature and severity of the problems at the plant. It is essential to work with qualified engineers and wastewater treatment specialists who can guide you in evaluating, planning, and designing the best solutions. They can also help ensure that any upgrades improve output and efficiency while remaining within budget.
Funding is often a significant obstacle in upgrading wastewater infrastructure. Municipal leaders should explore local and federal funding options, such as state-specific grants, federal grants, and the EPA's revolving loan funds. Applying for grants requires a thorough understanding of the application process, and a qualified engineering consultant can be instrumental in preparing a cost-effective and environmentally sound facility plan.
Upgrading the capacity of the treatment facilities can help manage higher volumes of wastewater. However, the lack of available land for construction can be a challenge. In such cases, optimisation can be a more affordable alternative to upgrading. Optimisation involves adjusting operations and repurposing existing equipment to remove additional nutrients, reducing energy demand and treatment chemical costs.
By investing in equipment upgrades and renewable power options, wastewater treatment facilities can significantly reduce their energy costs, which account for a substantial portion of their operation and maintenance expenses. Additionally, with the increasing urban and semi-urban populations, it is crucial to ensure that treatment plants can accommodate increased effluent volumes.
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Plant trees to prevent erosion
Preventing soil erosion is an important step in maintaining a healthy landscape and preventing pollution of nearby lakes. Soil erosion is the natural displacement of the top layer of soil, often caused by water, air, or tilling. This can create issues for future plant growth and can lead to further, more severe, soil erosion.
Planting trees is an environmentally friendly and productive way to prevent soil erosion. The large canopies of trees help to reduce the impact of rain on the ground. When rain falls on a tree canopy, it drains down the leaves and branches and soaks into the soil, rather than hitting the ground with force and washing away soil. The canopies also help to break the force of the wind and limit the amount of soil that is carried away. This is most effective when trees are planted in large groups. Transpiration, the process by which water moves through plants, sends water up through the roots and out through the leaves, preventing the soil from becoming too wet and heavy and stopping runoff. The roots themselves also help to bind the soil in place.
There are many tree species that can help prevent erosion. For example, Granite Seed offers over 600 species of seed for projects in any ecoregion. They also offer planting aid solutions like fertilizers, rice hulls, and mycorrhizal inoculants to help your seeds thrive. TreeVitalize is another public-private partnership that helps communities plan for, plant, and care for trees, as well as offering educational training to help citizens understand the benefits of trees.
In addition to planting trees, there are other ways to prevent erosion and keep a lake clean. Maintaining healthy soil is crucial, and it is important to avoid dumping waste into storm drains as these run directly into streams and lakes. It is also recommended to use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly and to consider native plants that require little fertilizer.
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Frequently asked questions
Some ways to prevent pollution in lakes include:
- Properly disposing of hazardous household items such as oils, anti-freeze, paint, solvents, cleaners, preservatives, and prescription drugs.
- Reducing or eliminating the use of fertilizers and chemical herbicides and pesticides.
- Ensuring proper maintenance of your septic system.
- Not dumping waste into a storm drain.
- Using native plants that require little fertilizer.
Some ways to clean up polluted lakes include:
- Upgrading wastewater treatment facilities to include tertiary treatment processes that can remove certain pollutants.
- Implementing regulations and working with concerned citizens, organizations, and industries to control pollution and minimize contamination of nearby water sources.
- Participating in local training or certification programs that teach citizens how to engage their communities in identifying and solving environmental problems.
- Planting trees to prevent erosion, soak up fertilizer, and provide shade to reduce energy costs.
One example of a successful lake cleanup effort is the 1972 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement between Canada and the United States, which aimed to reverse the harmful effects of pollution on the Great Lakes. While it was a challenging and lengthy process, significant progress was made, with Collingwood Harbour, Ontario, on Lake Huron, being the first area to be restored by 1994.
One organization working to clean up polluted lakes is the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), which offers workshops and restoration events to teach citizens about clean water practices and how to build rain barrels, plant stream buffers, and work on living shorelines.
Individuals can help clean up polluted lakes by reducing pollution in their own lives, properly disposing of harmful substances, participating in community projects and events, and supporting organizations working on lake cleanup efforts through donations or volunteering.
