As a property owner, you have an even more direct important role to play:
DE-ICING:
Skipping de-icers altogether is the most lake-friendly choice—while alternatives to rock salt may sound safer, many still contribute harmful pollutants that degrade water quality. Even so-called “eco-friendly” options can introduce excess nutrients or chemicals that disrupt aquatic ecosystems, making restraint the most responsible approach.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
- USE SPARINGLY: De-icers are not a replacement for shoveling. Shovel first, then, if necessary, apply a de-icer directly to the frozen surface or apply it before a storm.
- ADD A SHORELINE VEGETATED BUFFER: Build a simple, shoreline vegetated buffer to reduce runoff of harmful chemicals, like rock salt, into the lake. Shoreline vegetated buffers can improve runoff filtration and slow the movement of runoff into the lake. They are shown to improve soil quality, which can lead to healthy microbes that can degrade or alter pollutants before they enter the lake.
- For a step-by step guide on how to add a shoreline vegetated buffer to your home, go to SLPID’s website and view the Buffer Guide.