dredging for many years. This is a process of muck and sediment removal that restores an aging pond but is extremely invasive and costly for a community association.
Deeper water comes with fewer flooding events, more abundant fish and wildlife, and, in some cases, fewer algae and odor problems.
plants have been known to drown swimmers, including experienced athletes. Best practices like cleaning plant material from kayaks, nets, toys, and water equipment will help prevent the spread of invasive species.
Can Residents Enjoy Waterbodies More Safely?
Installing docks and gazebos around the water is an excellent way to encourage residents to safely enjoy fishing, feeding ducks, and nature watching. It’s also beneficial to establish clear, durable paths to the water to prevent residents from venturing into unsafe areas. This can be accomplished naturally by planting beneficial plants like blueflag iris, cardinal flower, and native sedges and rushes.
This can be accomplished by strategic placment of beneficial plants.
Allow them to grow at least eighteen inches high and three to five feet from the shoreline.
Water Quality Testing — Ongoing water quality testing can reveal a wealth of information, including problematic ecological changes. Early identification allows professionals to intervene before imbalances get out of hand.
Lower visibility in deep water makes it more difficult to recognize underwater hazards.
Is Recreation Safe in Deep Water?
Nonetheless, deep water can be dangerous for residents, particularly children. Less visibility in the water column makes it more difficult to recognize underwater hazards like stormwater equipment, tree branches, debris, and even steep drop-offs. Aquatic weeds may also be submerged below the surface. Hydrilla, milfoil, and other nuisance
Toxic Algae — Toxic algae is not just unsightly, it can be harmful to humans, pets, and other wildlife. Exposure to harmful algal blooms may lead to sickness and permanent physical and neurological ailments.
This will create a visually-appealing buffer while preventing sediment, trash, and pollutants from flowing into the water during rainstorms. And if shoreline sediment has eroded significantly, professional bioengineering solutions may be required to restore stability and aesthetics.
This should go hand-in-hand with education about water safety. Knowledgeable residents are able to make more
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