PROTECT WATER

Natural lakes like Culver and Owassa were created through a combination of glaciers and springs, and are threatened primarily by expanding communities. Over time, we have learned the main culprit threatening our waters is external phosphorous which binds with sediment, flows into the lake, and sinks to the bottom where dissolved oxygen is low. In this anoxic environment, sediment then releases phosphorous into the water column promoting algae growth. This process gradually suffocates helpful microbes and fish, disrupting the balance of the water ecosystem. The Culver Lake community has addressed this issue for many years but as the greater Culver Lake watershed becomes more and more inhabited, additional measures are required. In partnership with Frankford Township, the Foundation has intensified its commitment to Storm Water Management. The inclusion of recommended minerals such as iron and alum are also being utilized.

Individual residents at our lakes can do many small things to enhance water quality:

• Read more about how YOU can embrace water quality best practices with the brochure: A Homeowner’s Guide to Lake-Friendly Living, produced in partnership with the Normanoch Association.
• Create rain gardens to filter and slow storm water from impacting the lake.
• Learn more about strategies to prevent harmful algae blooms.
• Read more about managing or your septic system and ground water.
• View this presentation about managing septic systems.

A rain garden is a purposefully planted depression that collects rainwater coming from impervious surfaces like rooftops, driveways, roads and patios. The garden allows rainwater to seep into the ground instead of becoming stormwater runoff.

How are Rain Gardens Beneficial?

• Help keep water clean by filtering stormwater runoff before it enters local waterways (water that often carries sediment including harmful phosphorous).
• Help alleviate flooding and drainage issues.
• Enhance the beauty of yards and communities.
• Provide habitats and food for wildlife including birds and butterflies.
• Reduce the need for expensive stormwater treatment structures in the community.

The GCLWC Foundation has established a connection with Rutgers Cooperative Extension to advise homeowners about designing and creating a rain garden at their home or right-of-way. Send us an email for more information.

The demonstration rain garden in front of the Normanoch clubhouse filters out harmful naturally occurring and man-made chemicals before they reach the lake while at the same time providing beautiful native plantings and habitat for pollinators and birds.