Waterfront property owners have an important responsibility to keep fertilizers and pesticides out of the water body. Polluted water with toxic chemicals has a harmful effect on aquatic animals and can bring down the value of the waterfront property.
- Remove invasive exotic aquatic plants by cutting, pulling or raking. Remove excess dead plant material from water to keep it from adding excess nutrients.
- Decrease wave action and increase wildlife habitats by placing clean native limestone in front of seawalls.
- When feasible, plant native aquatic plants in front of your seawall.
- Avoid pruning mangroves and other native vegetation without first checking on proper guidelines and permits.
- If possible, plant a border of low maintenance plants between your lawn and the water’s edge to absorb nutrients and provide habitat for animals.
- Establish a 10-30 foot no fertilizer, no pesticide zone along the shoreline