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Protect your backyard when opening up the cottage

May 10, 2007 - After a long main winter it's that time of year again when the earth starts to warm and the lakes shed their icy coats. Soon it will be time to have fun in the sun swimming, boating and fishing at your summer retreat. But first there is much work to be done; the cottage needs to be prepared for the season; the waterline needs to be hooked up; the dock has to be installed; and the boats need to be launched.

When going through this annual ritual, it's important to consider possible harm to streams and lakes in the surrounding environment from these activities. After all, one of the main reasons you go to the cottage is to enjoy the area's unspoiled beauty.

With regard to repair and maintenance to your retreat's buildings and grounds, take care when using cleaning agents, paints and stains. Use natural products like baking soda and lemon juice when cleaning. More information on cleaning products from less harmful materials can be found at the Maine Department of Environmental Protection's pollution prevention website.

When using paints and stains, consider using earth toned colors so that buildings and other structures will blend in better with the natural shoreline. Paint or stain docks away from the lake and allow at least 14 days of drying time before putting them in the water. Make sure to clean brushes, etc., away from the water to prevent materials from washing into the lake.

This may be a surprise to you, but when cleaning up winter debris on the property, do not rake up the duff layer of leaves and pine needles that build up under the trees. These leaves act like a sponge and filter and help prevent pollutants from getting into the lake. As the cottage owner it is one of the best things you can do to protect the lake water quality.

Check the shoreline in other areas of the property for soil erosion. Stabilize these areas with vegetation or rock riprap. If more than minor maintenance and repairs is required, or structural measures are necessary, contact your local code enforcement officer and the Department of Environmental Protection to determine if permits will be needed before doing the work.

With regard to your septic system, check the leach field for any breakouts and consider having the tank pumped if it has not been pumped in last three years. A properly functioning septic system prevents harmful pollutants from getting into the lake.

When preparing your boat for another season, make sure to dispose of drained lubricating oils at a recycling facility or bring the oil to your local dealer for disposal. Wash the boat away from the water or at a commercial car wash. Check to make sure that the boat, trailer, and other equipment are free of any hitchhiking plants. Also, tune up your motor.

Following these simple rules when opening up your cottage will go far in protecting the natural resources you so enjoy as a cottage owner. We all must work together to ensure that our natural resources remain in good condition for future generations.

This article appeared in its original form in the Capital Weekly May 10, 2007

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