You may have noticed what appear to be large white objects floating in Little Glen Lake. This foam is a product of seasonal algal blooms that typically occur in August & September. The more we keep excess nutrients out of the lake, the fewer algal blooms and the less foam.
Excess nutrients come from lawn and garden fertilizer and from poorly maintained septic systems which allow nutrients from household products to enter the groundwater. Natural shorelines (as opposed to sandy beaches or grass) and properly maintained septic systems are the best defenses, as they help filter out excess nutrients and other chemicals before they can reach the lake. Use of impervious surfaces (such as asphalt and concrete) near the lake also contributes to excess nutrients running off into the water.
If you live on Glen Lake and would like to learn more about how to naturalize your shoreline to protect the water, please call us at (231) 334-7645 for a free shoreline consultation.
In addition, Michigan State University Extension offers many resources including the Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program, the Smart Gardening initiative and a gardening hotline at 1-888-678-3464. Check out the resources here: MSU Smart Gardening
To learn more about lake-friendly practices on and around the water, click the link below.