Get Involved
How You Can Help Protect Swartswood Lakes
Protecting the health of Swartswood Lakes starts with everyday actions taken by residents and visitors throughout the watershed. Small changes can make a big difference in keeping our lakes clean, healthy, and enjoyable for everyone.
Here are a few ways you can help:
Reduce Lawn Chemicals
Limit or eliminate fertilizers and pesticides. Use "phosphate free" fertilizers only.
Keep Lawn and Leaves out of the Lake
Be careful not to allow lawn clippings or leaf blowing into the lake.
Maintain Septic Systems
Regular inspections and pumping prevent wastewater from leaking into groundwater and nearby streams that feed the lake.
Watch for and Report Invasive Aquatic Plants
Learn to recognize invasive species such as water chestnut and other invasive aquatic plants. Early detection helps prevent them from spreading and harming the lake's ecosystem.
Aquatic Weeds
Weeds are annoying and add to the biomass of the lake, which ultimately affects the health of our lakes. If possible, we encourage harvesting weeds from lake shorelines. Be sure to remove all clippings as they can re-root.
Boating Etiquette
Keep in mind anything that blows off your boat will pollute the water. Keep garbage secure, don't leave fishing lines in the lake. There are fishing line collection tubes around the lake. Be sure to check and clean your boat carefully when leaving or entering our lakes as this can reduce invasive species spreading.
Dispose of Chemicals Properly
Never dump household chemicals, oil, or paint into storm drains or onto the ground. Use local hazardous-waste programs.
Submit Your Volunteer Hours
Did you know that each hour volunteered helps us with the federal grants we apply for? Submit your hours using our online form.
Save your filled form, then attach it to the email before sending.
Be Part of the Solution
Join the Association
The Swartswood Lakes and Watershed Association works year-round to protect and preserve the lake through monitoring, education, and community action. Join the association or volunteer to help protect the water quality and natural beauty of Swartswood Lake for future generations.
Helpful Information
Harmful Algae Blooms
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a growing concern. Despite the name, they are not caused by true algae but by cyanobacteria — microscopic organisms that behave like algae and naturally occur in freshwater. When conditions such as warm temperatures and strong sunlight are present, these organisms can multiply rapidly, forming thick surface mats that may look like pea soup or spilled paint.
Some HABs can be harmful to people, pets, wildlife, and the lake ecosystem. Certain blooms produce toxins that can cause illness if swallowed, inhaled, or if they come into contact with skin or eyes. These toxins may also accumulate in fish and shellfish, posing additional health risks when consumed.
Learn more about identifying blooms and staying safe:
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