Create a map of your property, drawing impervious surface areas that might generate runoff, existing vegetation and known drainage patterns. Next, get your rain gear out and study your property during a good hard rainstorm. We suggest you start at the lowest part of your property and work your way up. What are the flow patterns down your property? Does runoff flow towards the lake? Towards a stream or ditch? Does the stream or ditch flow to the lake? Trace surface flow on your map.
Direct surface runoff to vegetated areas. Try to spread runoff so that it flows through your yard in a sheet flow pattern rather than a channel. This will give the vegetation time to slow down the runoff, filter out sediment and promote infiltration through the soil.
Homeowner Resources
Additional Important Information
Lakes and Ponds Management