The Major Threats...
- Polluted runoff from lands that drain to the lake
- Cumulative impacts of shoreland development and poor land-use practices
- Recreational pressures and conflicts
- Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
- Draining and filling of wetlands
- Removal of native shoreline vegetation
- Introduction and proliferation of non-native, invasive species
The Consequences...
- Degraded water quality
- More frequent algae blooms
- Excessive weed growth
- Increased recreational conflicts
- Reduced plant, fish and wildlife diversity
- Loss of tranquility and natural scenic beauty
- Increased costs for lake management
- Diminished property values
The Solutions...
- Promote responsible growth and low-impact land uses
- Protect and restore wetlands that attenuate floods, trap pollutants and offer valuable habitat
- Naturalize shorelines by planting "buffers" that consist of native plants, shrubs and trees
- Control soil erosion and eliminate sources of polluted runoff
- Limit hard surfaces like concrete patios, driveways and asphalt parking lots
- Respect other lake users and wildlife
- Follow posted rules and regulations
- Understand the impacts of your actions
- Support ongoing lake-improvement efforts
- Educate your friends and neighbors as to what they can do to protect Lake Ripley