Whether you're a lake resident or just use and love the lakes, learn more about these issues—and share the information with your neighbors and friends!
Phosphorus is naturally occurring, but human activity and climate change have increased its levels in lakes, which can lead to harmful algae blooms (cyanobacteria) like the one shown above that closed Lake Holland in 2025. It's crucial to reduce runoff, not use fertilizers, and pick up all pet waste.
Storm runoff includes soil and pollution picked up along the way, directly affecting water clarity and quality. Adding native vegetation and shoreline buffers and limiting the size of lawns can make a real difference. TLWA also funds measures to safeguard areas around the lakes that help wildlife in the ecosystem. This includes beaver deceivers and supporting culvert management.