Resources
How You Can Help Protect Cedar Lake
According to the Association to Preserve Cape Cod: septic systems are the source of almost 80% of controllable nitrogen and phosphorus on Cape Cod. Fertilizer and pesticides seeping into the water directly from a lawn or running down a road, and paved driveway runoff, cause a significant additional amount. Pet and other animal waste contain concentrated nutrients which can leach into the pond or be carried there by storm water runoff.
If you live or own land on Cedar Lake or in the neighborhood near the lake:
Have your septic system inspected and cleaned regularly (the rule of thumb is every 3-5 years) to make sure it is in good condition and not leaching into the pond.
Gradually reduce your lawn area, plant more native species, and maintain a naturalized swath of native vegetation between your lawn and the pond.
Reduce the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals – abide by Falmouth laws regarding fertilizers. (See the regulations below)
Be thoughtful about what you put down the drain.
Rinse boats and paddle boards brought from other lakes to avoid introducing invasive species.
Control road runoff – make sure nearby storm drains are cleaned regularly on private and public roads and remove leaves from drain surfaces; consider installing a simple swale or rain garden on your property to divert runoff away from the pond.
If you are renting your waterfront or water-accessible property, either by long-term lease or short- term (e.g., Airbnb or VRBO, etc.), please let your renters know they too should practice responsible use of the lake, including no cutting of wetland buffer vegetation.
If you’re a lake visitor:
Pick up litter.
Don’t trample the shoreline vegetation.
Pick up your dog’s poop.
Don’t feed the waterfowl.
Clean off attached vegetation from boats and paddle boards.