LAKE-WIDE ACTIONS
Approach the Housatonic Valley Association to see if they would conduct stormwater monitoring at a few select tributary streams and drainage channels to determine sediment, nutrient and bacterial loading. Streams that should be considered are Shadow Brook, Lily Brook and the unnamed streams in the northern portion of the lake.
Work with landowners to minimize runoff from their properties into the lake:
  • Hold Rainy Day Survey workshops. First hold a workshop to train landowners how to survey their properties and identify areas of erosion and other potential runoff problems. This workshop could provide instructions and a site plan and survey form to fill out. Hold a second workshop where landowners can bring their completed Rainy Day Surveys and have professional landscaping consultants provide ideas on ways to solve the problems landowners have discovered.
  • Conduct a “lakescaping” program that informs property owners about techniques such as shoreline vegetated buffers, rain barrels, vegetated swales, rain gardens, infiltration trenches, pervious pavement.
  • Conduct a Rain Barrel Blitz, whereby a large number of rain barrels are purchased at a bulk rate and distributed to interested landowners. Focus first on distributing the barrels to densely developed areas.
  • Promote the planting of shoreline vegetation. Educate landowners about the importance of shoreline vegetation by holding a workshop and suggest they refer to the Massachusetts Buffer Manual. Provide copies of the manual to each member association of the SBA. Refer to examples of lakefront buffers found in Appendix B.
  • If the Rain Barrel Blitz is successful, consider offering a Buffer Bonanza, to purchase a larger amount of vegetation at a bulk rate price. Consider offering the installation of the plants as part of the program to make it easier for landowners who are not capable of doing it themselves.
  • Track and promote success stories by highlighting lakescaping projects in the SBA newsletter and on its website. Consider holding contests and giving prizes for the best improvements.
Develop a brochure that reminds landowners of town policies, bylaws and other regulations governing use of their land within 150’ of the lake shore, such as restrictions on the removal of shoreline vegetation, the application of fertilizers and pesticides. The brochure also describes the process for importation of new beach sand. The Town could send this brochure would be set in annual tax bills. The notices should include the procedures for replenishing beach sand.
Conduct pilot studies at several sand beach sites whereby runoff controls (e.g. silt fence, sediment rolls, etc.) are installed along the high water line in the fall to capture eroding sand over the winter and spring melt. Sites where beach erosion is severe should be prioritized. The Conservation Commission could require installation of runoff controls as a condition of allowing landowners of steeply sloped sites to import new sand to replenish their beaches.
Consider joining the Lakes and Ponds Association of Western Massachusetts (LAPA-West) to avail itself of the educational opportunities that LAPA-West offers. This includes the opportunity to network with neighboring lake groups and learn from their experiences, and to stay apprised of events and educational offerings.

Homeowner Resources

Additional Important Information

Native Trees, Shrubs, and Groundcovers For Riparian Buffers

Shoreline Buffers and the Health of Your Lake

Tips For A Rouge-Friendly Landscape

Lakes and Ponds Management