With the sun shining brighter than ever, water activities are more sought out during the summer months. The heat can cause direct changes to the environment in lakes, rivers and reservoirs as life in the water changes with the seasons. The waterways call for our attention as they are refreshing and fun, but they are also an integral part of our environment. A day on the water can be a family’s dream as taking the boat into coves and stopping for lunch and swimming can be a wonderful memory. Along with the perks of taking the boat on the water, there are several key points to consider protecting our waterways as you plan for a day on the lake.
Keep Your Boat Clean and Serviced
Pollution to the waterways can be done before one slides the boat off the trailer. If the boat has been washed with harmful chemicals or has not been professionally serviced, this can have negative effects on the environment. Many of the chemicals in everyday soaps and detergents are harmful to marine life when the boat is in the water. Keep in mind these tips:
- Be mindful of eco-friendly cleaners which go a long way when not only cleaning your boat. Check out certain sources such as US Boat Foundation when finding cleaning products are very helpful.
- Home remedies such as vinegar or lemon juice can be useful and not harmful to the marine life.
- Having the boat professionally serviced before you hit the water will prevent gas and oil leaks that are known to be harmful to the water.
Leave No Trace
While there is a great deal of fun to be had on the water, littering should never be an option when disposing of waste either out on the lake or back on the dock. Leaving something as clean or cleaner than you found goes a long way when caring for our environment. While there is great commitment from outside sources such as the EPA and individual marinas to clean water pollution, it is important that we lend a helping hand. Here, a little goes a long way.
Follow Slow/No Wake Zones
As the amount of liter is significant, so are following the rules of the water. In slow/no wake zones, it is important for us boaters to follow those rules. This is important so that one does not churn up sediment that allows algae to grow, which threatens the well-being of marine life.
What Can You Do to Help?
We invite you to help us protect our nation’s environment by identifying and reporting environmental violations. EPA’s Report an Environmental Violation website provides a way for you to report suspected environmental violations.
