Living in a Watershed…

Be conscious of your actions
It is imperative that people become conscious of their actions within the Lake George watershed and how those actions will affect the environment as a whole. Lake George has been recognized the world over for its crystal clear waters. It is a universal responsibility to ensure that it remains this way for generations to come.

Actions affect the quality of Lake George…even if you do not live on the lake.
People who live in a watershed do things everyday without thinking that can adversely affect the groundwater and lake water. Little things like leaving bare, exposed soil, over-fertilizing the lawn, or failing to maintain septic systems. These things all add up.

Stop pollution before it happens
Pollution problems become increasingly difficult and expensive to address as they expand and encompass our lakeside communities. Simple actions taken now can help stop the pollution. Each of us can make a difference and the Lake George Association is dedicated to providing solutions to the modern challenges facing the lake environment and to showing you how you can help every day.

Check out some lake-saving practices below!

Canada Geese - What to do when these visitors decide to stay.

The familiar V-shape of a flock of Canada geese on their migratory flight can be quite beautiful. However, more and more of these majestic birds have decided to make the Lake George Basin their permanent home. Problems arise as the droppings ruin lawns and degrade the lake's water quality. Fortunately, there are a number of steps that property owners can take to discourage these birds from taking up permanent residence. Learn more about how to deal with nuisance Canada geese on the NYS DEC website or download this DEC fact sheet (pdf): "When Geese Become a Problem."

Swimmer's Itch

Swimmer's Itch is a skin rash caused by certain parasites of birds and mammals. These parasites are released from infected snails and migrate through water. Swimmer's Itch is a problem in Lake George, as well as many other lakes throughout New York State. Check out these links to learn more:

http://www.essexhealth.org/html/swimmers_itch.html

http://www.swimmersitch.com/swimmersitch.htm

http://www.maine.gov/dep/blwq/doclake/itch.htm