geesePlease scroll down for additional information on local agencies that address concerns with environmental issues and animal concerns.

Fall Clean-up

It is always sad to see summer come to an end! The days are now getting shorter and the air is crisp. But you still may have some work to do around your yard to get ready for winter. Did you know that dumping your leaves and yard waste at a storm drain, ditch, or stream is considered stormwater pollution? Anything other than stormwater entering a storm drain or waterway is considered an illicit discharge. All stormwater flows directly to Lake Erie untreated. Yard waste and leaves contain a high amount of nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen. When yard waste is dumped in the storm sewer system, those nutrients end up in Lake Erie. We have all heard about the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) in Lake Erie and these nutrients help feed the HAB. Help us prevent the HAB by properly disposing of yard waste and by following these tips:

  • Compost your grass clippings and yard waste. You can construct your own compost bin or you can purchase one. Be sure to place your bin away from any stream, ditch, or storm drain. Compost bins can be purchased through the Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District. The compost can then be used in the spring in your flower beds and gardens.
  • Use a mulching mower. Mulched leaves and grass clippings make a great fertilizer for your lawn.
  • Remember that fertilizer also contains nutrients. Perform a soil test and only fertilize when necessary! The best time to fertilize your lawn is fall. Also, try to use a slow release fertilizer that does not contain phosphorus.

For more information, contact the Lake County Stormwater Management Department at www.lakecountyohio.gov/smd or (440) 350-5900. Like us on Facebook!

 

Lake County Stormwater Management: Salt Usage Winter 2015

Lake Erie needs to go on a low salt diet. Control your salt usage this winter because when the snow melts, the leftover salt eventually flows into our creeks and storm drains, ending up in Lake Erie. Salt can be very harmful to plants and organisms that grow in and near our waterways. Help keep our water clean and free of salt by following the steps below.

  • Chip and shovel away as much snow and ice as possible before applying salt products or alternative deicers.
  • Save your salt. Try to use only as much salt as you need, and store your salt properly indoors or under cover.
  • There is more than just salt. Do research into the alternative types of deicers on the market. They may perform differently at different temperatures and some are more environmentally friendly.
  • Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Deicers are meant to make the shoveling process a little easier by softening the ice, not to completely melt all the snow and ice.

For more information, contact the Lake County Stormwater Management Department at 350-5900 or visit the website www.lakecountyohio.gov/smd.

 

Coyotes

Posted: March 11, 2011
This information courtesy of Mike Watson, a conservation biologist, at the Holden Arboretum.

This article provides general information on coyotes, as well as guidance on avoiding interaction with them.

 

Lake County General Health District

(440) 350-2543

Website offers information on:

  • Mosquito and rabies control — including a list of trappers for nuisance animals
  • Injured or orphaned wildlife
  • Animal bites
  • Septic systems

 

Removal of Dead Animals

The Lake County General Health District will remove dead wildlife from private property, if the animal has been deceased for less than 48 hours. For removal or further guidance, please call 440-350-2543. On weekends you may leave a message on their answering service. There is no removal on weekends.

For removal of animals, not addressed by the Lake County General Health District, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources maintains a list of companies and individuals licensed to perform such removal. Please see the link below for additional information.

 

Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Website offers information on:
1-800-WILDLIFE

  • Wildlife
  • Licensing for fishing and hunting
  • Recreation and conservation topics

 

Lake County Dog Shelter

2600 North Ridge Rd.
Painesville, OH 44077
440-350-2640
1-800-899-LAKE Ext. 2640

  • Website offers information on licensing and adoption

 

Lake County Humane Society

7564 Tyler Blvd., Bldg. E
Mentor, OH 44060
440-951-6122

  • Website offers information on adoption