Preserving the waters for future generation July is Lakes Appreciation Month

Did you know that July is recognized as “Lakes Appreciation Month” by the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS)?

Each year, NALMS sets aside this month to celebrate the important roles lakes play in our everyday lives. Whether as a water supply, flood control resource, foundation for recreation opportunities, reservoir for hydroelectric production or as another resource, lakes make a positive impact on the lives of thousands of Oklahomans each day. Of course, GRDA’s Grand Lake, Lake Hudson and even the W.R. Holway Reservoir are part of that positive impact.

Before we get too far into the month, GRDA wanted to pass along some simple tips to area landowners and lake users. These are things everyone can do to not only show their appreciation for Oklahoma’s beautiful lakes but also help protect these waters for future generations who will want to enjoy them as much as we do. Keep these in mind when you visit the water …

• Pack out what you pack in… Did you know the Grand Lake Adopt-the-Shoreline program collected more than 200 tons (400,000 pounds!) of trash in just two years? Trash cans are available at parks around the lake. On your boat, make sure you have a trash bag and that it is tied down so trash does not fly out.
• Pick up after your pet … Pet waste near the shoreline can get washed into the lake from rain events carrying bacteria with it. Pet waste also acts like a fertilizer in the water. If too much of the pet “fertilizer” ends up in the lake, the result can be an algal bloom.
• Be careful when filling your boat or personal watercraft with gas or oil … Both chemicals can have an impact on the fish and bugs that live in the water
• Do not mow the shoreline vegetation too short … Allowing some growth along the shoreline can reduce erosion and trap pollutants coming off a road or yard. 
• Considering using a mulching mower … If you use a mulching mower and leave the grass clippings on the yard it can help reduce lawn-watering and the need for fertilizer.

These are just some of the things you can do to help protect lakes. For more information on how you can help protect GRDA lakes and the Grand River Watershed, visit the “Guard the Grand” link on grda.com.

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