Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a natural part of an aquatic ecosystem, and an essential plant nutrient. The sources of phosphorus in our waterways are mainly from atmospheric deposition, surface runoff from the surrounding residential and farm land, and shoreline erosion. When levels of phosphorus in our waterways are high, it can increase the growth of weeds, speed up eutrophication (lake aging), increase the frequency of blue-green algae blooms, and decrease oxygen levels in the water which can harm aquatic life.

Much like on land, in water, phosphorus is the nutrient that largely determines the amount and rate of growth of aquatic vegetation.The equation is simple - more phosphorus equals more algae and weed growth.

How Do We Keep Phosphorus Low?

Use phosphate-free household cleaning products and toiletries

Avoid bleaches and anti-bacterial soaps that disrupt septic system function

Allow 5-10 meters of shoreline plants/grasses to grow freely

Replant native plant species on your shoreline and avoid clearing your property of trees and vegetation - especially near the shoreline. This also helps to reduce shoreline erosion.

Stop using commercially available fertilizer on your lawn, flower and vegetable gardens. Instead - try composting your fruit, vegetable and yard waste. Compost is an excellent soil conditioner and releases its phosphorus slowly - whereas the phosphorus in commercially available fertilizer is not retained by the soil and quickly washes into the lake after application.