PLEASE Don’t Fertilize your Lawn
Water clarity in Round Lake is declining faster than expected. The main culprit has been identified as Phosphorus—typically entering the lake from fertilizer spread on lake lots and gardens. You can help reduce the total phosphorus load entering our lake by changing your lawn care strategies and habits while maintaining an appealing landscape on your property.
There is a wealth of information on this topic on the Internet. One site that seems to be very useful is LakeToLawn.org. While this site talks about lakes in the eastern United States, the problem and the solutions are applicable nearly everywhere. Here are some of the tips from the site:
• Fertilize with only phosphorus-free fertilizers—the middle number must be zero (0).
• Raise the blade on your mower to 3-inches—this will shade out weed growth and retain moisture
• Leave the clippings—creates a healthier lawn by providing natural nutrients.
Talk this problem up with your neighbors who many not realize the problem fertilizer creates. This is something small that all of us can do to have a huge impact on preserving the wonderful natural resource we call Round Lake. Thanks for your help.