Education
Practical tips to keep Howard Pond clear, safe, and wild—covering boating courtesy, wildlife, invasives prevention, shoreline care, and more.
Key Topics
Boating Courtesy
Wake & Near-Shore Zones
Keep wakes low near shore, docks, and wildlife. Operate well away from loons and swimmers. Prop wash and waves erode banks and stir bottom sediments—reducing clarity.
- Go slow within ~200 ft of shore and all coves.
- Idle through loon nesting areas; never chase or circle wildlife.
- Mind noise—sound travels far over water.
Updates
No updates yet.
Wildlife
Loons & Respectful Viewing
Give nesting loons extra distance and keep wakes small. If a loon “dances,” splashes, or calls repeatedly, you’re too close. Dogs and drones can distress birds—keep both away.
- Observe from afar with binoculars; avoid hovering or circling.
- Teach kids to spot signs of stress and back off.
- Report injured wildlife via the Contact page.
- Fish care: use barbless or pinched barbs for easy release, avoid lead tackle, keep fish wet, and release quickly to protect cold-water species.
Updates
No updates yet.
Invasive Species
Clean • Drain • Dry
Before launching, clean hulls/gear, drain water from boats/live wells, and let gear dry. Early detection patrols protect the pond—no invasives found to date.
- Inspect trailers, anchors, ropes, and fishing tackle.
- Dispose of plants in trash—never back into the lake.
- See something suspicious? Snap a photo and contact us.
Updates
No updates yet.
Shoreline Care
Buffers & Runoff
A natural buffer (ideally ~10 ft) filters runoff and protects clarity. Avoid soil disturbance, keep paths narrow and stable, and let leaves/duff remain as a sponge.
- Plant natives; keep lawns back from the waterline.
- Capture roof runoff with rain barrels or stone drip-lines.
- Use stone steps instead of bare dirt on slopes.
Updates
No updates yet.
Septic & Wells
Maintenance & Timing
Pump systems on schedule (typically 3–5 years depending on use). Fix soggy leach fields and odors promptly—nutrients feed algae and reduce clarity.
- Keep heavy vehicles off the field.
- Use water efficiently; stagger laundry/dishwashing.
- Know your tank location and access lids.
Updates
No updates yet.
Community
Night Quiet & Fireworks
Be considerate with sound after dark. Launch fireworks only with permission and far from wildlife, dry brush, and neighboring camps.
- Pick up all debris along the shore the next morning.
- Mind wind direction and safety clearances.
- When in doubt, skip fireworks—enjoy the stars.
Updates
No updates yet.
Seasonal Checklists
- Inspect paths, banks, and drainage after snowmelt; stabilize any bare soil.
- Service engines; check for leaks before first launch.
- Re-stock life jackets; check expiration on flares/first-aid items.
- Practice “Clean • Drain • Dry” every trip.
- Keep wakes low near shore; give loons extra distance.
- Use carry-in/carry-out at the launch and beaches.
- Pull docks/rafts early if weather turns rough; secure boats and canoes.
- Drain engines; store fuel safely away from shore.
- Walk your frontage—pick up any litter before snow.
Guides & Helpful Links
Want a printed copy at the launch or a laminated loon-etiquette card? Let us know.
Questions or ideas for workshops? We’d love to hear them.