Water Quality Pledge

I will pump my septic tank
every 3-5 years

Failing septic systems are one source of bacteria and nutrient pollution in the creeks and streams feeding Lake Monroe.  You can help by making sure your system is properly maintained.  Learn more about septic system care at (click here).

I will reduce or eliminate fertilizer
use on my lawn

Phosphorus and nitrogen in fertilizer stimulate algal growth, causing harmful algal blooms that limit recreation and increase the complexity of drinking water treatment.  Careful reduced fertilizer usage can avoid fertilizer runoff into our lakes and streams.  Learn more about excess fertilizer at: (click here).

Planting native plants along streams and ponds

Perennial plants help stabilize streambanks and lakeshores while also filtering runoff before it reaches the stream or lake.  Native species have the extra benefit of supporting local wildlife including our pollinator friends.  Learn more at:
(click here).

Disposing of trash properly

Trash that is dropped on the ground easily gets washed into Lake Monroe where it poses a hazard to wildlife and makes the lake less attractive.  Learn more about trash at:
(click here).

Picking up my pet’s waste

Animal poop is full of bacteria that can make our streams unsafe to swim and nutrients that can stimulate harmful algal blooms. Plus, it’s just gross! Learn more about pet waste at (click here).

Volunteering with Friends of Lake Monroe

Did you know Friends of Lake Monroe has monthly trash pickups at Paynetown State Recreation Area?  Other volunteer opportunities range from event planning to water quality sampling to serving on the board of directors.  Learn more at:
(click here).

Show your support for water quality in Lake Monroe

by pledging to take action at home! Choose up to six different ways you can reduce the amount of nutrients, sediment, and bacteria reaching our lake. We will send one follow-up email to track your progress and will use your address to determine if your property lies within the Lake Monroe watershed or one of our neighboring watersheds. Remember, wherever you live there is someone who lives downstream.