We are planning on using this page to collect together answers to frequently asked questions about the lake (with a focus on water quality):

Q. What is the current state of Cottage Lake?

A. Cottage Lake has high phosphorus concentrations and is therefore on Washington State's 303(d) list of lakes not meeting state water quality standards. The phosphorus leads to increased algae problems which impacts water clarity and the use of the lake for recreation (swimming, etc). A "Total  Maximum Daily Load Analysis" was recently published by the Washington State Department of Ecology which has more information on the current phosphorus levels.

Q. What can I do as a member of the community to help preserve the lake?

A. There are several parts to this answer and I will update it as I get more info:

1. It is very important for you to keep excess nutrients and pesticides out of the lake: 
       a) Use lawn and garden products (especially fertilizers) sparingly, and never before anticipated heavy rain.
       b) Pick up pet waste and put it in the trash.
       c) Wash cars at car washes, not in the driveway.
       d) Be mindful of anything you put on the ground, the street, the lawn, garden, roof, etc. Anything that can be transported by surface water will end up in the lake.
       e) Ensure your septic system is properly maintained! Here are some links with info: homeowner education, free classes on septic care,

2. Learn how to spot and deal with noxious weeds: Plants in the lake occur naturally, but there are some that could pose a threat. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and fragrant water lily (Nymphaea odorata) are two noxious aquatic weeds that you might see in the lake or at the waters edge. I'll try to get more info on the site somewhere to help people identify these problem plants and how to deal with them.

3. Keep Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) (one of the worst noxious aquatic weeds in area lakes) from spreading to Cottage Lake by checking any boats, etc before putting them in the lake.

4. Join or support local groups (like this one!)

Q: Is there anything I can do about the Canadian Geese and the mess they make?

A: There doesn't seem to be an easy answer to this one, but here's some suggestions from Michael Murphy (King County DNRP, Water and Land Resources):

One way to deal with geese (arguably the most effectice, but I don't know of studies) is to remove the habitat they find so inviting and enjoyable: lawns. A native plant "buffer" at lake's edge will discourage them from waddling up, and smaller lawns will keep them from wanting to hang out. I've heard that before geese land or walk to a place, they look for their open areas that will allow them to spot danger early and an easy take-off path should a dog come charging. I think I remember that any takeoff path steeper than 15 degrees won't work. A few well-placed plants could be a bummer for geese - providing potential cover for predators and hindering a speedy takeoff. Don't quote me on thse numbers, but the point is, less lawn=fewer geese.

Here's a link I found which has some more info, but some of the suggestions look like they would cause other issues - let me know if you find anything else to add: Humanely Resolving Conflicts with Canada Geese: The HSUS Guide

 

More questions and answers coming soon - let us know if you have something to contribute.