Leaves a Falling
Dave Ernes – Lake Management Committee
Why the concern of leaves in the lake? As leaves fall into the water, they begin a natural decomposition process. This decomposition consumes oxygen in the water, particularly in shallow areas, creating a condition known as hypoxia. Low oxygen levels can severely impact aquatic life, stressing fish and other organisms. We saw this last fall.
We are currently enjoying the brilliant colors on display around the lake this time of year. The problem starts once the leaves fall.
In addition to reducing oxygen levels, the decomposition of leaves releases nutrients into the water, most notably nitrogen and phosphorus. The Planet Natural Research Center web site states that 50-80 percent of the nutrients that trees absorb end up in their leaves. While these nutrients are essential for the growth of aquatic plants, the excess can cause algal blooms.
So, please avoid intentionally blowing or raking leaves into the lake. Not only is it a good idea, but you can be fined for not following this simple rule. This also applies to grass clippings and other lawn debris during fall cleanup.
For those of you off-lake, leaves accumulating in the drainage culverts can breakdown, resulting in a high nutrient “tea” that can flow into the lake after any fall rain event.
What you CAN do:
- Many articles suggest that you mulch your leaves when mowing.
- Of course, you can also bag your leaves each fall and dispose of them, along with other fall debris, at the Compost Site rather than with the trash. This site is a great Roaming Shores resource! (Instructions to access the site can be found on the Village website,)
Be Lake Responsible