If you're a waterfront homeowner at Swains Lake, you're likely passionate about preserving the beauty and health of our cherished lake. The NHLAKES LakeSmart program offers an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship while also enhancing the value and appeal of your property. Here’s how you can get involved and earn the prestigious LakeSmart award.
What is the NHLAKES LakeSmart Program?
The NHLAKES LakeSmart program is an initiative designed to encourage and recognize lake-friendly living practices among waterfront property owners. The program provides education and resources to help homeowners manage their properties in ways that protect water quality, reduce erosion, and maintain the natural habitat.
By participating in the LakeSmart program, you not only contribute to the health of Swains Lake but also set an example for others in the community, fostering a collective effort toward sustainable lake management.
Benefits of the LakeSmart Award
1. Environmental Impact: Implementing LakeSmart practices helps reduce runoff, prevent pollution, and protect the lake's ecosystem. This ensures that Swains Lake remains a vibrant and healthy environment for wildlife and future generations.
2. Property Value: LakeSmart-certified properties often see an increase in value. Prospective buyers are attracted to environmentally conscious homes that contribute positively to the local ecosystem.
3. Community Recognition: Earning the LakeSmart award showcases your dedication to preserving Swains Lake, earning you respect and recognition within the community.
Steps to Earn the LakeSmart Award
1. Self-Assessment
Begin by conducting a self-assessment of your property using the LakeSmart evaluation guide. This will help you identify areas where you can improve your lake-friendly practices. The guide covers various aspects such as landscaping, stormwater management, and shoreline maintenance.
2. Schedule a LakeSmart Evaluation
Contact the NHLAKES team to schedule a free, no-obligation LakeSmart evaluation. A trained evaluator will visit your property to assess your current practices and provide personalized recommendations for improvements.
3. Implement Recommendations
Based on the evaluator’s feedback, start implementing the suggested practices. This may include planting native vegetation, installing rain gardens, creating buffer zones, and utilizing erosion control measures.
4. Final Evaluation
Once you have made the recommended changes, request a final evaluation. If your property meets the LakeSmart criteria, you will receive the LakeSmart award, along with a sign to display proudly on your property.
LakeSmart Practices to Consider
-Vegetative Buffers: Plant native trees, shrubs, and ground cover along the shoreline to filter runoff and prevent erosion.
-Rain Gardens: Create rain gardens to capture and infiltrate stormwater, reducing the amount of runoff entering the lake.
-Erosion Control: Use mulch, ground cover, and other erosion control methods to stabilize soil and prevent sediment from washing into the lake.
-Sustainable Landscaping: Opt for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants that require minimal fertilizers and pesticides.
Join the LakeSmart Movement
The NHLAKES LakeSmart program is more than just an award; it’s a movement toward preserving the natural beauty and health of our lakes. By participating, you’re contributing to a larger effort to protect New Hampshire’s lakes and ensuring that Swains Lake remains a pristine and enjoyable destination for all.
Ready to get started? Visit the NHLAKES website for more information on how to participate in the LakeSmart program. Let’s work together to make Swains Lake a model of lake-friendly living!
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