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LakeSmart is an educational program sponsored by Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection that offers free opportunities for homeowners to learn how to manage their home and yard to protect the water quality of their lake.
The goal of LakeSmart is to change the increasingly common suburban landscaping practices around lakes to more natural, lake-friendly environments. You can learn more about LakeSmart at: www.maine.gov/dep/blwq/doclake/lakesmart/index.htm.
Why become involved? To help protect and enhance our property values and the beauty of Crescent Lake. Let’s leave a beautiful lake to our grandchildren!
Why is the State so involved? 60% of all municipal revenue comes from property taxes, and a one meter decrease in water clarity can reduce property values by as much as 8%.
All participation is voluntary. A qualified evaluator will review a property and make suggestions for improvements that will help the property qualify for the LakeSmart award and protect water quality.
The program is for education, not enforcement. Those who qualify for the LakeSmart award are given a certificate from DEP. At their option, they will also be given a sign to display, and will be recognized in news releases and listed on the LakeSmart web page.
Congratulations to these LakeSmart property owners on Crescent Lake!
Why not add your name to the list? Please contact Elden Lingwood, elldsl@fairpoint.net (phone 627-7411) or Noralee Raympond of Raymond Waterways Protective Association, lakes@raymondmaine.orgto learn more about how you can become LakeSmart.
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