Lake Management
Lake-Wide Actions
Monitor Tributary Streams and Drainage Channels
Approach the Housatonic Valley Association to see if they would conduct stormwater monitoring at a few select tributary streams and drainage channels to determine sediment, nutrient and bacterial loading.
Streams that should be considered include Shadow Brook, Lily Brook and the unnamed streams in the northern portion of the lake.
Work With Landowners to Minimize Runoff
Work with landowners to minimize runoff from their properties into Stockbridge Bowl.
Hold Rainy Day Survey workshops. First, hold a workshop to train landowners how to survey their properties and identify areas of erosion and other potential runoff problems. The workshop could provide instructions, a site plan and a survey form to complete.
A second workshop could allow landowners to bring their completed Rainy Day Surveys and have professional landscaping consultants provide ideas for addressing the problems they have identified.
Conduct a “Lakescaping” Program
Conduct a lakescaping program that informs property owners about techniques such as:
Shoreline vegetated buffers
Rain barrels
Vegetated swales
Rain gardens
Infiltration trenches
Pervious pavement
These techniques can help slow runoff, encourage infiltration and reduce the amount of sediment and nutrients entering the lake.
Conduct a Rain Barrel Blitz
Conduct a Rain Barrel Blitz, whereby a large number of rain barrels are purchased at a bulk rate and distributed to interested landowners.
Focus first on distributing the barrels to more densely developed areas around the lake.
Promote Shoreline Vegetation
Promote the planting of shoreline vegetation.
Educate landowners about the importance of shoreline vegetation by holding a workshop and encourage them to refer to the Massachusetts Buffer Manual.
Provide copies of the manual to SBA member associations and refer property owners to examples of successful lakefront buffers.
Consider a “Buffer Bonanza”
If the Rain Barrel Blitz is successful, consider offering a Buffer Bonanza to purchase a larger quantity of shoreline vegetation at a bulk rate.
Consider offering installation of the plants as part of the program, making participation easier for landowners who may not be able to complete the planting themselves.
Track and Promote Success Stories
Highlight successful lakescaping projects in the SBA newsletter and on the website.
Consider holding contests or offering recognition for particularly successful improvements to encourage other property owners to take similar steps.
Remind Landowners of Lakeside Regulations
Develop a brochure reminding landowners of Town policies, bylaws and other regulations governing the use of property within 150 feet of the lake shore, including restrictions on the removal of shoreline vegetation and the application of fertilizers and pesticides.
The brochure should also describe the process for importing new beach sand and the procedures for replenishing existing beaches.
Reduce Erosion From Sand Beaches
Conduct pilot studies at several sand-beach sites where runoff controls — such as silt fencing or sediment rolls — are installed along the high-water line in the fall to capture eroding sand during the winter and spring melt.
Sites where beach erosion is most severe should be prioritized.
The Conservation Commission could also consider requiring runoff controls as a condition for allowing landowners on steeply sloped sites to import new sand to replenish their beaches.
Connect With Other Lake Organizations
Consider joining the Lakes and Ponds Association of Western Massachusetts (LAPA-West) to take advantage of educational and networking opportunities.
Working with neighboring lake organizations provides an opportunity to learn from their experiences and stay informed about events, resources and educational programs.
