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LAKE PRESERVATION

Overview

Pinewood Lake is fed by three streams that bring sediment, chemical pollutants such as phosphorus and nitrates from fertilizer, and biological pollutants. The lake is dredged periodically to reduce silt and to slow the natural tendency of the lake to fill in and become a meadow.

 

The waters are home to endemic species of snails, leeches and insects. Hardy fish such as sunnies and perch survive year-round. Other fish such as trout and bass are stocked each spring.

 

Intrusive organisms are a constant concern. Over the years the lake has seen waves of algae and of water weeds like Valisineria. Changes in climate, runoff chemicals, silt levels and other large scale environmental factors and non-migratory Geese make it a dynamic challenge to keep the lake clear for swimming and boating. The lake is largely able to dilute, buffer and cleanse itself, and through careful practices designed and implemented by the Lake Water Quality Committee, the water is safe for enjoyment. 

Public Service Announcement

Please pick up pet waste!

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  • Pick up your pet’s waste when out walking; then flush the waste down the toilet, or

  • Bury your pet’s waste 6” deep; keep it away from vegetable gardens, wells, or nearby water bodies

  • Remove pet waste from play areas, sidewalks, paved areas, around wells, storm drains, and waterways

  • Pets are NOT allowed on the PLA beach year round.

Preservation

Kindly use care when maintaining your yard, automobile and pets to protect Pinewood Lake and Long Island Sound.

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Fertilizer Facts & Rates

Excess fertilizer washes into waterways and ponds causing algae blooms; killing fish, wildlife, and flora. Fertilizer labels always display three numbers in the same order, (i.e., 10-6-4). They represent the % by weight of three important nutrients:

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  • Nitrogen (N) — for green, leafy growth

  • Phosphorus (P) — for root and bud growth

  • Potassium (K) — for disease and drought tolerance

 

Example: A bag of 10-6-4 fertilizer has 10% nitrogen, 6% phosphate, and 4% potassium.

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  • Fertilizers and pesticides can help produce a lush lawn, but they must be used according to instructions to prevent water quality problems. Compost mixed with your soil can provide some of the organic matter and nutrients your soil needs without using commercial preparations.

  • Test Your Soil First! Only fertilize based on your soil needs.

  • Retest soil every 3-5 years.

  • Do not apply fertilizer to frozen ground or dormant turf.

  • Only use what you need — more is not always better.

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Reduce Run-off On Your Property

  • Use gravel, interlocking stones, or bricks instead of concrete and asphalt

  • Landscape with berms and swales to catch and filter runoff

  • Plant native grasses, shrubs, and trees to slow runoff, prevent soil erosion, and increase water absorption

  • Plant vegetation using a concave approach — water flows toward the plant and filters down into the ground

 

Septic Systems Maintenance

  • Inspect your septic system annually and service outlet filters

  • Pump out your system every 2-3 years by a licensed septic service company

  • Use nontoxic cleaning products

  • Avoid using septic tank cleaning compounds

 

Mowing Guide

                                            Summer           Spring/Fall

Tall fescue                                3”                 1 1/2 – 2”

Perennial ryegrass                   3”                 1 1/2 – 2”

Kentucky bluegrass                 3”                 1 1/2 – 2”

Fine fescue                              3”                  1 1/2 – 2”

 

Grasscycle! Leave grass clippings on the lawn. They return nutrients to your lawn and reduce the need for additional fertilizers. Keep mower blades sharp.

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Watering

  • Early morning is the best time to water to discourage disease

  • 1 – 1 1/2” per week is plenty of water for most lawns

  • Water slowly; wet the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches

  • Make sure sprinkler heads are watering greenery — not pavement

  • Avoid water runoff from the lawn

  • Avoid light, frequent watering

  • Consider landscaping with drought-tolerant grasses, shrubs, and trees

 

Underground Oil Tanks

  • Check for leaks, fluctuating fuel levels, water in the tank, soil stains, strong fuel smells, wet places near tank, oil substance on streams, and fuel smell/taste in well water

  • Check pipes, valves, hoses, fittings, and pumps for leaks.

  • Have tank inspected by a professional.

  • Install an above ground tank.

  • Check with DEEP for underground tank removal incentives (860) 424-3370.

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