Algae are a diverse group of aquatic organisms that have the ability to conduct photosynthesis (the process of harvesting light energy from the sun to generate carbohydrates). Certain algae are familiar to most people- for instance, pond scum or the algal blooms in lakes. Not all algae is harmful and we provide some guidance to you in this section.
Harmful Algal Blooms – Report it!
The Water Quality Committee needs your help to detect any Harmful Algae Blooms (HAB) that may occur on the Lake. The “Know it, Avoid it, Report it!” campaign is focused on HABs that may occur on the Lake. Because an Algal Bloom can appear at any time and at any location on the lake, it is impossible for a small committee to detect when and where they are occurring. This is where you can help. This link will provide you with all the information you need to get started. Everyone should take the time to read the information and understand the difference between an Algal Bloom and a Harmful Algal Bloom. Harmful Algal Blooms can pose health risks to people and animals and need to be taken seriously.
If you suspect that you have seen a HAB, please report it to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NY DEC). Fill out and submit a Suspicious Algal Bloom Report Form.
Sewage & Septic
Friends Lake does not have a municipal sewer system and properties should have a septic system: an underground wastewater treatment structure that uses a combination of natural and technological processes to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, showers, kitchen drains and laundry. It is important to properly maintain your septic system to prevent leaching/run-off into the lakes or streams which flow into the lake.
The NYS Department of Health recommends that septic tanks should be pumped out every two to three years. A septage waste transporter (septic tank pumper) that is licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation can inspect, measure tank layers and pump out the tank when necessary. Its publication Septic System Operation and Maintenance provides excellent guidance.
Detergent & Fertilizer Runoff
The NYS Nutrient Runoff Law prohibits the application of lawn fertilizer containing phosphorus within 20 feet of any surface water except where there is a vegetative buffer of at least 10 feet; or where the fertilizer is applied by a device with a spreader guard, deflector shield or drop spreader at least three feet from surface water. The application of lawn fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium between December 1st and April 1 is also prohibited.
Fertilizer labels have three bold numbers. The number in the middle is the percentage of phosphorus in the product, e.g. 22-0-15. Use of products with 0.67 in the middle or lower is not restricted. Products with a number higher than 0.67 may only be used if a new lawn is being established or a soil test indicates it is necessary.
The law also prohibits the sale of phosphorus-containing dishwasher detergents for household use.