We are currently facing the impacts of climate change. Heavy rains and floods during the summer resulted in a large amount of pollutants and sediments flowing into our lakes and rivers. However, the pollution could have been much worse, as Oliver Pearson explained in VTDigger (Aug 13), noting that “a decade of effort” has made watershed infrastructure more resilient to the impacts of flooding and climate change. However, there is still a lot of work to be done. In order to prepare for such heavy rains that may occur in the future, we must not only continue this work, but we must accelerate it.
Flood resilience is often focused around “hard” infrastructure such as roads, bridges and drainage systems. These are large projects that require time, money, and specialized skills. However, individuals can play an important role in protecting our rivers and lakes from pollution caused by severe runoff from severe storms. By changing how you manage your property, whether it’s a small plot of land or several acres, you can help mitigate some of the damage from severe storms, reducing sediment runoff and pollution into our waterways. Changes that may seem small can have a huge impact cumulatively.
Heavy runoff carries nutrients, such as phosphorus as well as other pollutants, into lakes and streams. High levels of phosphorus can lead to the proliferation of cyanobacteria that pollute the water and release toxins. The dangerous and widespread blooms we saw in Lake Champlain this summer are an example of what happens when large amounts of pollutants enter the water.
There are ways in which individuals can help reduce this pollution. In fact, many beneficial actions involve doing less work. If you own a lakefront or riverside property, a simple and effective way to protect water quality is to avoid mowing your lawn all the way to the water’s edge. This is because grass with its shallow roots is not effective in absorbing runoff. Heavy rain will flow through the lawn and carry pollutants and sediments into the water. By cutting less grass and creating vegetated barriers on beaches, you can effectively absorb more runoff and reduce pollutants reaching the water. In addition, planting native flowers, shrubs and trees, with their deep roots, can help protect beaches from erosion and reduce sediment and nutrients from entering the water. These plantings can also attract pollinators and birds. By reducing mowing, you can also enjoy more free time and observe the beauty of nature around you.
When lakes flood, rising water levels can erode areas of shoreline that are not normally in contact with the water. This becomes a particular problem if large waves hit the shoreline at these higher levels. Something boaters can do to help prevent erosion is to refrain from creating any size during flood conditions.
Even if your property isn’t located on a lake or river, you can still make a real difference. No matter how far you are from bodies of water, runoff from your property will find its way into the streams and lakes in your watershed. Through strategic plantings, drainage treatment of roofs and other impermeable surfaces, proper grading of driveways and driveways, and eliminating the use of fertilizers and pesticides, you can help build flood resilience and protect our freshwater resources. Most of all, simply do less. By not mowing large swaths of grass and replacing grass with native plants, you reduce polluted water runoff and protect streams and lakes. Plus, you have a more diverse landscape that supports native pollinators, butterflies and birds, plus you get the added bonus of more free time.
Are you looking to create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that can improve our state’s flood resilience while reducing your workload? See the Vermont Lakes and Ponds Association’s publication “Guide to Healthy Lakes” for landscaping ideas and plans. You can also find additional resources, including native plant lists and more landscaping ideas on our website. Local nurseries often have native plants, shrubs, and trees and can help with suggestions. Additionally, there are programs available that provide tips and ideas for reducing water runoff. The Storm Smart program can provide useful information about reducing stormwater runoff, while the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s Lake Wise program works with lakefront property owners to protect lake shorelines and develop lake-friendly landscaping.
It is necessary to take rapid action towards creating a resilient environment and protecting our precious water resources. Interestingly, doing more can sometimes require us to do less. Since the fall planting season is right around the corner, it’s a good time to start implementing some changes in your landscape. By allowing native plants, shrubs, and trees to flourish and reducing mowing and fertilizer use, we can enhance the protection of our water bodies, enhance biodiversity, promote a healthier environment, and enhance resilience to floods.
Pat Suozzi is president of the Vermont Lakes and Ponds Association and lives in Hinesburg.
