TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………..…….. 1 WILBUR AND HARRY IN THE COUNTRY………………………………………….. 2 SEPTIC SYSTEM ………………………………………………………………………… 7 SHORELAND…………………………………………………………………………….. 10 AQUATIC PLANTS/FERTILIZERS………………………………………….……….. 13 GIARDIA “ BEAVER FEVER”/ WATER PURIFICATION ………………..……… 14 WATER TESTING ………………………………………………………………………. 16 RECYCLING/COMPOSTING/BURNING..…………………………………………. 17 HELPING PROTECT WILDLIFE AND HABITATS/ ZEBRA MUSSELS AND OTHER AQUATIC SPECIES………………….…………. 18 NOISE AND MISCELLANEOUS……………………………………………………… 19 REFERENCES/RESOURCES ………………………………………………………… 20 LAKE HUGHES Municipalities of GORE and MILLE ISLES, Quebec 2002 This booklet has been inspired by the Lake Barron Environmental Report which was based on the work done by the Lake Louisa Association. Prepared by: Consultant: Contributors: Photo: (front cover): Typing: Lake Hughes Association Environmental Committee Kelly Fahey, John Lough, Heather McCullough Bill Pollock Celeste Benard, Pierre Gregoire, Kim Nielsen Bunny McCullough Kelly Fahey, Barbara Stolt INTRODUCTION This booklet summarizes many of the environmental issues which have been discussed over the years by the Lake Hughes Association. The objective of the booklet is to provide some basic information about environmental issues pertaining to Lake Hughes and to recommend some environmentally friendly actions. The continuous development of lakefront properties will ultimately have an effect on the quality of our lake. Before beginning any practice, stop and think about the potential risks to water quality. Preservation of our lake is much easier and less costly than Restoration. We are very fortunate at Lake Hughes as we do not have many of the most serious sources of pollution such as: Gasoline Motor Boats Lake Hughes is a “no gasoline motor boat ” lake (Municipal – Provincial & Federal law) No industry or agriculture No golf courses No municipal spraying with pesticides We encourage comments and suggestions for future revised editions of this booklet and we would appreciate any documentation or reference materials. Being environmentally friendly requires understanding the consequences of our actions: this is very well portrayed in the following story about “Wilbur and Harry in the Country”. 2 SEPTIC SYSTEM How Septic Systems Function Septic Systems are a vital part of our homes and cottages and can be a hazard to our lake environment when they fail to function. To understand how the septic system can fail it’s necessary to understand how it works. The septic system consists of two major components: the septic tank and the weeping field. Septic Tank The first stop for household sewage is the septic tank. Inside the tank the sewage solids sink to the bottom, and are called sludge. Greases and fats float to the top and are called scum. Liquid is left in the middle. Bacteria in the septic tank start the decomposition of the sewage solids. The sludge and scum are retained within the tank and should be pumped out on a regular basis. The liquid flows out of the tank’s exit into the weeping field. In the soil it encounters more bacteria, which finish the good work begun in the tank. The weeping field acts as a natural sewage filtration and purification system. This natural filtering plant works when the run-off fluid from the septic tank flows past the weeping field, through the soil past the root systems of trees, shrubs and grass. This provides the lake with much needed protection. Failure to pump out a septic tank when required will result in sludge and scum being carried into the weeping field. This in turn may clog the system. In this event, not only will the tank have to be pumped out, but the weeping field may have to be replaced. The size and type of septic systems is based on the size of the home and lot, so when planning on building additions, such as adding a washroom, installing a hot tub, etc., check to ensure the system will handle the load. Septic tanks must be pumped out regularly. Municipal by-laws require tanks to be pumped out based on occupancy of home or cottage. Seasonal residents: Permanent residents: Clean out every 4 years Clean out every 2 years Proof of Clean-out must be sent to the municipality. Septic tanks must have structural integrity and be watertight. You should be informed if the tank is damaged, leaking, rusting or of any other existing problems when it is pumped out. Ask for this information if it is not readily provided. 7 SEPTIC SYSTEM If your septic tank is 25 years old, it is recommended that you consider installing a new system. Avoid commercial septic tank accelerators and/or bacterial additives. They are unnecessary preparations. Your septic tank contains the required bacteria to process waste. When winterizing the cottage, use only plumbing antifreeze, not automobile radiator antifreeze. Weeping Field The weeping field is best located in an open area clear of tree root systems. The area over the weeping field should be grassed or left open to wild flowers so that maximum evaporation can take place. The weeping field should be protected from all vehicular traffic, including large lawn tractors, snowmobiles, heavy equipment, etc. The weight of this traffic can crush the pipes in the weeping field. Compacting of snow in this area increases risk of freezing the septic field. Warning Signs of a Failing Septic System Odours near the septic system. Spots of lush vegetation on or around the weeping field. Ground becomes soggy over the weeping field. Presence of thick black sticky soil near the weeping field. Back-up of the sewage into the drains of the house. High fecal coliforms present in the lake in front of the house. The Lake Hughes Association conducts water testing each summer. How to Help the Septic System Function Minimize Water Consumption (Don’t Overload the System) Many homes draw water directly from the lake and therefore enjoy an unlimited supply. Remember that the septic system has to cope with the incoming liquid. The more liquid we feed it, the greater the likelihood that solids will be carried into the weeping field to clog it. This is the most common cause of septic system problems. 8 SEPTIC SYSTEM Here are some helpful ideas: Use water restricted plumbing fixtures, such as low flow showerheads and low flush toilets. Repair leaking faucets and “running” toilets. Allow the septic tank to have a rest period between large loads of waste water, i.e., when laundry load is completed, wait before draining a bath. Run the dishwasher only when completely full. Septic System Hazards Be careful as to what goes down the drain. Here are some ideas: Limit the amount of toilet paper and choose one ply. Do not allow food scraps, including coffee grounds, to escape down the drain. Sink garbage disposal systems (garbarators) are not appropriate for septic systems. The generated waste increases sludge and scum in the tank. Use a composter instead. Avoid chlorine bleach (Javel) as it destroys the bacterial action in the tank. Alternatives are Borax or washing soda. Do not allow grease, oil, household chemicals/cleaners, paint and thinners into the system. Baking soda is an excellent substitute for cleansers. Avoid commercial products used for unclogging household drains. Try a mixture of ¼ cup baking soda, ½ cup vinegar and 1 gallon of boiling water. Switch to phosphate free detergents. Read the labels! Phosphate free laundry detergents are readily available in the grocery stores and are not more expensive. Most companies have phosphate free bleach free brands. Some examples are: All Laundry Detergent - 100% Phosphate Free President’s Choice Laundry Detergent - Phosphate Free Sunlight Laundry Detergent -100% Phosphate Free Phosphate free automatic dishwasher detergents are very difficult to find, usually only available in a health food or environmental store. One example is: Nature Clean Dishwasher Powder - Phosphate Free Most hand dishwashing liquids are phosphate free, therefore this method is much more environmentally friendly. Phosphate free cleaning products One example is: Vim - Phosphate Free 9 SHORELAND Municipal Regulations The shoreland of Lake Hughes is a protected municipal conservation zone. Gore Mille Isles Protected Zone – 20m/65.6ft Protected Zone – 10m/32.8 ft (if slope is less than 30% *) – 15m/49.2 ft (if slope is more than 30% *) Before disturbing or altering anything in this shoreland area, consult the municipality for the by-laws. Remember that these regulations and guidelines protect and preserve the lake. Authorization And Permits Are Required For Certain Projects. In the protected zone, the natural vegetation must be left undisturbed. An opening of 5m/16.4 ft in width is permitted, giving access to the lake. When the slope of the shoreland is steep (more than 30%*) a stairway and the 5m access to the lake may be obtained by only trimming and pruning trees and shrubs. * A 30% slope is represented by leaning a board against the wall with the top at 3ft and the base set 10ft away from the wall. Anything done in the shoreland protected area should have the following two objectives: 1. prevent erosion 2. preserve and restore the natural vegetation Note: In certain cases, when the stabilization of a slope is necessary, a rock- type retaining wall may be used with the help of natural vegetation. Consult the municipal inspector for specific details about what is permitted. Activities Not Permitted In The Shoreland Protected Zone/Lake Excavation, digging, levelling and landfilling in the shoreland protected zone. Dredging and landfill in the lake. Destroying, damaging and removing aquatic vegetation (weeds) in the lake. Pouring cement in the shoreland protected zone as well as the lake. Dumping sand on the beach is strictly forbidden. 10 SHORELAND Deck (Terrace) A wooden deck on posts (no cement) is permitted in the 5 meter opening giving access to the lake. Maximum size 50 sq m/538.2 sq ft, must not occupy more than 5m/16.4 ft in width as per the Municipality of Mille Isles by-law. Topography of the land must not be altered (no excavation/back-fill). The deck must be situated entirely on the shoreline and not in the lake. A space must be left between the ground and the platform to permit the growth of natural vegetation. Wharf (Dock, Quay) A wharf on posts or floating platforms is permitted. However, it must not interfere with the free circulation of water. Municipality of Gore: size not exceeding 20sq m/215.3 sq ft Municipality of Mille Isles: size not exceeding 2m x 6m/6ft x 20 ft The Lake Hughes Association does not recommend treated wood. (Arsenic, part of the preservative in treated wood, can leach into the lake. Arsenic may cause cancer in humans and is especially toxic to children. ). _____________________________________________________________ The importance of natural lakeside vegetation cannot be over-emphasized. Trees, bushes and shrubs along the shoreline provide a good network of deep roots which helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. This root system also acts as a natural filter to stop harmful nutrients from reaching the lake. This filter strip of vegetation, especially between the septic system weeping field and the lake provides significant protection for the lake. This vegetation also uses some of the nutrients that reach the ground water from the septic system, and although good for the vegetation, excessive amounts of certain nutrients are harmful to the lake, encouraging algae (green scum) and plant growth in the water. The shallow area of the lake around the shoreline is the most productive part of the lake. Any disturbances or disruptions of this part of the lake threaten the fragile equilibrium of the lake’s ecosystem and should be avoided. Landfill (sand) dumped on the shore eventually washes into this sensitive area and destroys spawning beds and aquatic life. Swamps also play an important role in the life cycle of the lake. There are regulations protecting them from being disturbed or altered. 11 SHORELAND Good Shoreland Practices Preserve all the trees, shrubs, bushes, plants and flowers already present. A mature tree is a powerful filter which can absorb more than 250 gallons or 1125 liters of water per day! Cutting the shrubs and vegetation to ground level is prohibited except in the 5m access to the lake. When your shoreland property is on a steep slope (over 30%) shrubs and vegetation may only be trimmed or pruned in this 5 m access. If the natural vegetation has already been removed, restore it by planting native trees, shrubs, etc. normally found along the shoreland. The following are some recommendations for shoreland planting: Trees: Conifers such as, cedar, spruce, white pine. Let hardwoods seed themselves. Shrubs: Myrica gale, alder, spiraea, willow, cinquefoil. Grasses: Lab Ecolo or Lab 2000 Special mixture of grass seeds for shoreland. Do not put high maintenance lawns or gardens which require compost or fertilizer near the lake. Natural sandy beaches are rare at Lake Hughes and artificial sandy beaches are prohibited. A good alternative is a dock with stairs and a raft. 12 AQUATIC PLANTS (WEEDS) Small to moderate amounts of aquatic plants are essential to the life of a lake. These plants thrive on available nutrients, light and heat in exactly the same way as other plants. If a lake becomes over fertilized (eutrophication) and/or the water temperature rises, the symptoms are excessive algae and aquatic plants. The decomposition of this excessive algae and plant growth depletes the supply of dissolved oxygen in the water threatening the survival of all living things in the lake. A healthy lake is one with an adequate supply of dissolved oxygen. Control of Excessive Aquatic Plant Growth Phosphorus (Phosphates) is the key nutrient in stimulating algae and aquatic plant growth. The main sources of this Limit Nutrients. nutrient are: 1) Septic system sewage due to the phosphates found in laundry detergents and automatic dishwashing products, etc. 2) Fertilizers used on lawns and gardens. Protect or restore the natural vegetation on the shoreland to provide shade, prevent erosion and to act as a natural filter. Avoid cutting the weeds in the lake or pulling them out by hand as this often promotes greater plant growth. FERTILIZERS The nutrients in the fertilizers used on lakeshore lawns and gardens can leach into the ground water and eventually arrive in the lake where they become a source of pollution promoting algae and aquatic plant growth. The numbers on the fertilizer label refer to the percentage of nutrients contained and always in the sequence: Nitrogen – (Phosphorus/Phosphates) – Potassium. Organic does not mean safe for the lake, it means a substance derived from plant or animal material, e.g. bone meal is an organic fertilizer high in phosphorus made from steamed and ground animal bones. The Lake Hughes Association requests that lakeshore property owners avoid using FERTILIZERS as well as PESTICIDES, which also include HERBICIDES, INSECTICIDES and FUNGICIDES. These are all sources of pollution for the lake. The Lake Hughes Association has information about natural garden remedies for insects and/or diseases, please contact them for more information. Compost is a natural and acceptable source of fertilizer; however, it is full of nutrients and therefore should not be used near the lake. 13 GIARDIA “BEAVER FEVER” “Is the water safe to drink?” is one of the most commonly asked questions about Lake Hughes. The lake is tested annually to determine the presence of coliforms and is deemed very safe for swimming. However, the lake water may not be safe to drink unless it is treated with an approved filter or boiled. A contamination source of lakes, ponds, rivers and streams is a parasite known as Giardia Lamblia. This intestinal parasite causes Giardiasis, a disease commonly referred to as Giardia or “Beaver Fever”. It can be carried and spread by any warm-blooded mammal including dogs and humans. Beavers are prime agents in transferring this parasite because they spend so much of their time in and near water. Signs and Symptoms Some infected people experience no symptoms at all while others can be desperately ill. This intestinal infection can be associated with a large variety of symptoms, increasing and decreasing in severity, often intermittent and lingering for several months if untreated. Pale, foul-smelling, frothy diarrhea accompanied by abdominal cramps, bloating and excessive gas. General malaise, fatigue, weakness, nausea, lack of appetite and weight loss. Incubation Period Time it takes for symptoms to become apparent in an infected person. One to four weeks. WATER PURIFICATION There are several methods of treating water. destroyed are: Bacteria Viruses Parasites and their cysts The organisms which have to be Boiling Boiling is the most reliable method of purifying water for drinking. All organisms including bacteria, viruses, parasites and their cysts are destroyed by boiling. 14 GIARDIA /WATER PURIFICATION Boiling cont’d Bring water to a vigorous rolling boil for 1 minute (3 minutes at higher elevations, over 1400m/4,600 ft and in developing countries). Allow the water to cool to room temperature. The “flat” taste of water can be improved by adding a pinch of salt or by pouring water back and forth between two clean containers. Important: This method of water purification is not adequate for immuno-compromised individuals. Filtering There are many excellent filters available, but it is very important to get the filter appropriate for the task. There are filters to remove organisms, filters to remove chemicals and others to deal with the colour, clarity, taste and odour of the water. Filters have “pores” which allow particles of certain sizes to pass through. Essentially all sanitizing water filters for organisms filter out bigger organisms like parasites and some bacteria but no filters have pore sizes small enough to remove viruses. Therefore a filter usually incorporates another method of disinfection, e.g. ultraviolet light. Effective disinfection is defined as achieving 99.9% removal of the organism. Filters require periodic cleaning and maintenance. Shop for a filter only from the most reputable stores or dealers. ASK QUESTIONS! The accredited laboratory, Bio Services Laboratoire d’analyses environnementales (819) 326-8690, can provide recommendations for water filters. Resource person: Heather McCullough, Environment Committee, Lake Hughes Association 15 WATER TESTING Swimming Water testing for fecal (human) coliforms is carried out annually by the Lake Hughes Association. Thirty-five samples, which include one from the inlet and one from the outlet, are collected at the end of July, which is considered a high risk period with the warmest temperatures, the lowest water levels and the most people present. The samples are analyzed at a laboratory accredited by the Ministry of the Environment: Bio Services Laboratoire d’analyses environnementales 180 boul. Morin (Rte 117 N), Ste. Agathe des Monts, (819) 326-8690 If the test results indicate a problem, the test is repeated and if the second test also indicates a problem, the location is visited in order to determine where the problem is originating. WATER QUALITY FOR SWIMMING Test for fecal coliforms A Excellent B Good C Mediocre D Polluted 0-20 21-100 101-199 200 and + (If the test result on the report is < 2 it means that it is 0) Drinking The public well on Horseshoe Road is also tested at this time. Private wells can be tested for a reasonable charge. 2001 OTHER WATER TESTING Hydrocarbons (petroleum derivatives – skidoos) 2001 Arsenic (treated wood) 2000 Results Satisfactory No problem Satisfactory No problem Satisfactory No problem Phosphorus (phosphates) and nitrogen (nitrates) Harmful nutrients promoting algae growth Testing done by University of Ottawa Proposed Examination of water clarity with a Secchi disk to evaluate 2002 the lake’s enrichment status Resource Person: John Lough, Environment Committee, Lake Hughes Association 16 RECYCLING To help reduce the amount of waste headed to our landfills, we can make an effort in the way we manage our household waste. Here are a few simple rules: The Three Rs Reduce – Buy and use less. Purchase only what you really need. Reuse – Find a new use. Can your item be used instead of buying something new. Recycle – Set aside items which fit the criteria for recycling depots. The municipalities of Gore and Mille Isles have also been making waste reducing efforts by changing and implementing new recycling programs, here are the details: Municipality of Gore Commencing July 4, 2002, the municipality of Gore will begin its bi-monthly door-todoor recycling collection service. The dates for collection as well as the items and manner in which they are to be collected are detailed in an information sheet which is forthcoming. The recycling container behind the Gore Municipal office will be removed. For more information contact the municipality at 450-562-2025. Municipality of Mille Isles Effective June 24, 2002, the Municipality of Mille Isles will have recycling depots. The nearest depot to Lake Hughes is the Mille Isles Municipal Garage. A detailed information sheet regarding materials collected is available at the municipality or call 450-438-2958. COMPOSTING Composting is another viable way in reducing kitchen and garden waste. There are many resources and containers available by contacting garden centres and book centres you can find more information. Composting areas must be kept at a distance of 45.7m/150ft from any water source. BURNING The smoke from burning leaves, campfires, etc., can be bothersome to neighbours. Consider raking the leaves off the lawn and spreading them in the forest for natural composting. If you must burn, the Municipality of Gore has a by-law for burning leaves, campfires, etc., please contact them for their permit and fees. The Municipality of Mille Isles requests that you advise their office and/or fire department prior to burning. 17 HELPING PROTECT WILDLIFE AND HABITATS The wildlife and wildlife habitats found at Lake Hughes are an important part of lake biodiversity. Our daily activities in and around our homes and cottages have a substantial impact on the wildlife and their habitats. Here are a few helpful ideas to encourage wildlife sustainability: Ensure garbage has been securely sealed and enclosed in an animal proof bin. Plastic debris may be swallowed by animals or they may become entangled with packaging resulting in death. Careless disposal can cause harm to wildlife. Resist the temptation to closely follow loons, ducks, etc. Observe wildlife at Do not feed wild animals (racoons, deer, loons, ducks, etc.). Keep your domestic animals under control. Respect municipal leash laws. Dogs running free may harass and kill wildlife. Putting a bell around the neck of an outdoor cat permits birds to hear their approach. Domestic cats kill many songbirds each year. When purchasing your fishing licence, consult the brochure Sport Fishing in Quebec regarding length limits of fish and “catch and release” techniques. Use non-lead fishing gear so birds and fish ingesting lost sinkers will not be poisoned. Do not leave fishing lines on shore unattended, fish and birds can become entangled and drown. Never introduce alien fish species as they may upset the balance of the ecosystem. When walking or boating stow your trash and dispose of it safely or recycle it ashore. Never throw it overboard. Report suspicious-looking discharges and other environmental problems to the Lake Hughes Association or to the provincial wildlife agency. Teach others what you have learned. a distance, use binoculars for a better view. ZEBRA MUSSELS AND OTHER INVASIVE AQUATIC SPECIES When you move from one body of water to another there is a serious risk of carrying harmful aquatic species with you. These harmful species quickly multiply creating water infestations harming the lake biodiversity. 18 The Lake Hughes Association requests that watercraft, fishing gear, etc. used on another lake, river, etc., be inspected and washed thoroughly and left to dry out of the water for a minimum of five days*. This is especially important for people visiting Lake Hughes and for strangers trying to launch their boats at unauthorized spots. * The Quebec Minister of the Environment recommendation for 2002. Also suggests using hot water or high pressure water jet to wash the boat. NOISE Noise is annoying to humans and wildlife alike. Excessive noise not only disturbs peace and tranquillity but has a lasting effect on wildlife. When choosing outdoor recreational activities, consider cross-country skiing, hiking, cycling and canoeing instead of snowmobiling, four-wheeling, dirt bikes, etc. These activities are quieter so they don't disturb wildlife. The quiet activities may even increase your chances of seeing wildlife. Loud noises especially in the winter affect animals when they need to rest and conserve their energy. Both Gore and Mille Isles municipalities have by-laws which outline noise infractions. In summary, there is a curfew between 22h00 and 07h00, wherein noise is prohibited, except in the case of an emergency. Noise caused by work (lawnmowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, saws, etc.), music, etc., during the curfew can be seen as a contravention resulting in fines and/or legal fees. Noise from music or broadcasts must not be heard outside the limits of the lot on which the noise is broadcasted. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Insist that swimmers leave the water to use the bathroom. A usual guideline when bathrooms are unavailable is between 30.5m-45.7m/100ft-150ft from water’s edge. Dispose of animal waste properly, as it contains disease causing organisms which can leach into the lake. Do not use soap or shampoo, including soaps marked “biodegradable”, directly in the water. Do not wash anything in the lake (hair, body, dishes, clothes, dog, etc.). Avoid allowing any chemicals, e.g., paints, thinners, furniture stripping products, oil, gasoline, fertilizers, pesticides which could leach into the lake through ground seepage. Avoid using deckwash, preservatives, stain or paint on the deck if it is on or near the water. 19 REFERENCES/RESOURCES General Municipal Office of Gore Municipal Office of Mille Isles Lake Barron Environmental Report Lake Louisa Environmental Report Government of Quebec – Minister of the Environment Government of Ontario – Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources FAPEL ( Féderation des associations pour la protections de l’environnement des lacs) Government of Canada - Environment Canada University of Minnesota – Understanding Shoreland Best Management Practices Bio Services Laboratoire d’analyses environnementales 180, boul. Morin (Rte 117 N), Ste. Agathe des Monts (819) 326-8690 Giardia /Water Purification References Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialities 2002 Water Treatment Methods Dr. Steve Esrey, Senior Program Officer, Water and Sanitation Department, UNICEF Les Infection en Garderie – Les Publications du Québec Water Information - Adventure Gear – Sweet Water www.ewalker.com/adgear/h2oinfo.htm Water Purification Techniques – Pure Water www.travelhealth.com/purwtr.htm General Giardia Information http://um.cfsan.fda.gov/~mov/chap22.html Books The Canadian Green Guide, How You Can Help Save Our World, Teri Degler and Pollution Probe, McClelland & Stewart Inc., Toronto, Ontario, 1990. Environment Canada, Conservation and Protection Fact Sheets, Minister of Supply and Services, 1990. Living Near the Water, Environmental, Design for Shoreline Properties, John A. Stevens, Illustrated by Ted Dyment, General Store Publishing House, Burnstown, Ontario, 1994. Websites Canadian Wildlife Service www.cws-scf.ed.gc.ca www.bsc-eoc.org/loonfact.html Environment Canada www.ec.gc.ca/water/e_main.html Environment Quebec www.menv.gouv.qc.ca 20