Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Friends can help you manage erosion and runoff pollution at your waterfront property.
What is runoff pollution?
When rain falls from the sky, it runs downhill and comes to rest at a topographic low point, forming lakes and ponds. As this rainwater flows downhill, it carries contaminants with it: loose soil (sediment), fertilizer and excess nutrients, pet waste, and other pollutants.
When natural buffer zones are impaired through erosion, deforested trees, cleared lots, and poorly maintained roads, phosphorus and other harmful pollutants can enter the water directly. Left unchecked, these pollutants can cause unsightly (and potentially hazardous) algae blooms to grow out of control.
Since the passing of the Clean Water Act of 1972, there has been a significant reduction in “point source pollution”: pollution caused directly by industrial manufacturing and energy production. Today, most water pollution is the result of “non-point source pollution”—the cumulative impact on residents and visitors of the watershed.
Need help with your shoreline project?
We've got you covered!
Contact us to schedule a free LakeSmart Start visit. We’ll check out your shoreline buffer zones, discuss your concerns, and give you a plan of action that works for you. If your project is eligible for grant funding or our Youth Conservation Corps, we’ll work with you to get it done.
