Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County will be offering one-on-one lawn care question and answer sessions for residents of the Owasco and Cayuga Lake Watersheds. Lawn care practices and there effects on water quality will be discussed, as well as soil testing and fertilizer use.
The 15 minutes sessions will take place on Moday Oct. 5th, and Wednesdays Oct. 7th and 14th from 11:30am to 4:30pm at the CCE offices at 248 Grant Ave. in Auburn.
Registration is required by Oct. 1st by calling CCE at 255-1183.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Managing Erosion on fire lanes/access roads
I found a great article the other day on managing roadway erosion on a Skaneateles Watershed web site. It is very well done and includes complete drawings and specifications. Over the years I have had lots of people ask about techniques and expertise in controlling roadway erosion on steep slopes. Anyone who has a dirt or gravel roadway with any significant slope has experienced erosion problems that these deflectors could help prevent. There is also some good information on watershed friendly landscaping at this web site. Take a look and see what you think.(picture and web site link are from Cornell Cooperative Ext. of Ononondaga County)
link to the article and downlaodable brochure:
http://watershed.extendonondaga.org/Skan_Roads.htm
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Protect our Lake!
Here is a list of the Top 5 DO NOT'S to help protect the water quality of Owasco Lake.
1. DO NOT wash your dog, boat, hoist, or dock (or anything!) in the
lake. When soap detergents, and cleaners enter the lake, chemicals
and phosphorus are released into the water. The best place to wash
vehicles is at a car wash where the used water can be treated properly.
At home, instead of washing on the driveway, choose a piece of lawn
away from the lake – the grass can help absorb and filter some of the
dirt and suds.
2. DO NOT dump leaves, grass clippings, or yard debris into the lake.
Plant material releases excess nutrients into the water as they
decompose. Too much nutrients can lead to algae blooms, fish kills,
and excessive aquatic plant growth. Leaving your grass clippings on
the lawn, or mulching your leaves can provide natural fertilizer. If
you must rake, bag your leaves in paper sacks until they can be
picked up or composted. Remember that storm drains and ditches
can also carry leaves to nearby waters!
3. DO NOT expose soil without protecting it from erosion. When
eroded sediment is washed into the lake it can smother fish habitat
and promote the growth of various weeds. Sediment is a big threat
because it can muddy the water and increase turbidity. Construction
sites, and other exposed soils, should have the proper erosion control
devices.
4. DO NOT dispose of household hazardous wastes in the lake, on the
ground, or down storm drains and ditches. Household chemicals like
antifreeze, paint, motor oil, cleaning detergents, degreasers, pesticides,
and fertilizers are harmful to your health and the health of the lake.
Remember the land in the watershed all drains to the lake! Never
dump anything you wouldn’t want to drink!! To learn how to dispose
of these substances properly, contact Cornell Coperative Extension
of Cayuga County.
5. DO NOT neglect your septic system. One of the most common
watershed violations is failing septic systems! When out-dated or
abused septic systems fail, bacteria-ridden wastewater can pollute
the lake and contaminate backyards, groundwater, wells, and
swimming areas. Take proper care of your septic system by having
it inspected regularly. The average system requires a pumping every
3-5 years. The average lifespan of a well-maintained septic system
is 30-40 years. If you suspect your system is in need of repair or
replacement, fit the necessary costs into your budget. A new system
may come with a price tag, but you will be investing in the value of
your home, as well as your family’s health and the well-being of the
lake. Remember to obtain the necessary permits before you do any
work on your septic system.
(adapted from Skanaeteles Watershed Guidance - CCE)
1. DO NOT wash your dog, boat, hoist, or dock (or anything!) in the
lake. When soap detergents, and cleaners enter the lake, chemicals
and phosphorus are released into the water. The best place to wash
vehicles is at a car wash where the used water can be treated properly.
At home, instead of washing on the driveway, choose a piece of lawn
away from the lake – the grass can help absorb and filter some of the
dirt and suds.
2. DO NOT dump leaves, grass clippings, or yard debris into the lake.
Plant material releases excess nutrients into the water as they
decompose. Too much nutrients can lead to algae blooms, fish kills,
and excessive aquatic plant growth. Leaving your grass clippings on
the lawn, or mulching your leaves can provide natural fertilizer. If
you must rake, bag your leaves in paper sacks until they can be
picked up or composted. Remember that storm drains and ditches
can also carry leaves to nearby waters!
3. DO NOT expose soil without protecting it from erosion. When
eroded sediment is washed into the lake it can smother fish habitat
and promote the growth of various weeds. Sediment is a big threat
because it can muddy the water and increase turbidity. Construction
sites, and other exposed soils, should have the proper erosion control
devices.
4. DO NOT dispose of household hazardous wastes in the lake, on the
ground, or down storm drains and ditches. Household chemicals like
antifreeze, paint, motor oil, cleaning detergents, degreasers, pesticides,
and fertilizers are harmful to your health and the health of the lake.
Remember the land in the watershed all drains to the lake! Never
dump anything you wouldn’t want to drink!! To learn how to dispose
of these substances properly, contact Cornell Coperative Extension
of Cayuga County.
5. DO NOT neglect your septic system. One of the most common
watershed violations is failing septic systems! When out-dated or
abused septic systems fail, bacteria-ridden wastewater can pollute
the lake and contaminate backyards, groundwater, wells, and
swimming areas. Take proper care of your septic system by having
it inspected regularly. The average system requires a pumping every
3-5 years. The average lifespan of a well-maintained septic system
is 30-40 years. If you suspect your system is in need of repair or
replacement, fit the necessary costs into your budget. A new system
may come with a price tag, but you will be investing in the value of
your home, as well as your family’s health and the well-being of the
lake. Remember to obtain the necessary permits before you do any
work on your septic system.
(adapted from Skanaeteles Watershed Guidance - CCE)
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