Annual Water Quality Report Each year, a survey is performed on Tyler Lake to determine the extent of the weeds and the overall health of the lake. The annual report is presented and discussed at the Association's annual meeting each July.
Tyler Lake Water Quality Committee Project summary 2023 - 2024
Removal of floating bogs: The purpose of this project was to remove a substantial portion of the 'floating bogs' at the Northeastern end of the lake. Our objective was to to reduce the safety hazard for recreational activities on the lake as well as to prevent the floating bogs from becoming permanent fixed islands. A significant amount of material was removed from the bogs and taken out of the lake. This work was performed from September 27th thru October 7th by New England Aquatic Services.
Suctioning of biomass in the SW cove: The purpose of the project is to help reduce a significant source of nutrients and other pollutants in the lake. This project started September 18 and finished on October 27th.The process consisted of technicians using suction hoses to pump biomass/sludge from the lake bottom into 2 large drying tubes that are designed to allow water to drain while containing the solid material. The drying tubes were placed at 13 Breguet Road. Once the material was determined to be sufficiently dried, the tubes were cut open and the material was removed and transported to local sites to be used as fertilizer and/or fill. It is estimated that over 330 cubic yards of biomass was removed from the lake.
Both projects were successful in accomplishing the TLPA goals. The bogs have been reduced and are presently substantially below the waterline, and in the SW cove a significant source of nutrients and other pollutants has been removed from the lake.
Lake weed management: Our goal in the 2024 Tyler Lake weed management program was to control Eurasian milfoil and regulate the growth of nuisance pond weeds throughout the littoral zone of the lake. Our proposed weed treatment regime included 4 applications of a broad-spectrum granular herbicide, Sonar Q. Because two State of CT protected plants are present in the northern area of Tyler Lake, the state regulatory agencies (DEEP and NDDB) established and approved an alternate herbicide treatment regime than what was originally proposed. A program consisting of two low-dose (5ppb) Sonar (fluoridone) treatments within a limited treatment area was approved. The treatment area, designated as the perimeter of the lake, specifically excluded any treatment to the northern perimeter adjacent to the marsh as this is where state protected species have been documented in past surveys. Following the recommendation of our lake management experts and State of CT aquatic biologists we agreed to go ahead with the alternate treatment regime described above. The first treatment as applied by The Pond and Lake Connection, LLC on April 27th and the second on May 30th. The Water Quality Committee along with NEAR will evaluate the results throughout the 2024 season. Catch Basin Filters. The Water Quality Committee intends to investigate the costs and benefits of Catch Basin Filters. designed to remove pollutants from storm water runoff before it reaches the lake. If we agree that filters are a worthwhile endeavor, we will include the Goshen selectman and the other Goshen lakes into the process of moving forward. I hope you find these updates helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact the TLPA via the TylerLakeCT.org On behalf of the TLPA and the Tyler Lake Water Quality committee I’d like to express our sincere appreciation for your support. Pat Flynn, Chairperson of the Water Quality Committee
Weed Remediation Controlling the lake weed, both invasive and native species, is a critical task to ensure the continued health of the lake. The lake is on a 3 year cycle of remediation projects consisting of Mechanical, Chemical and Physical mitigation techniques. The Water Quality committee leads this effort to ensure that the lake maintains the highest level of clarity for the continued enjoyment of everyone.
Your septic system is important when it comes to the health of Tyler Lake.
A septic system breaks down solid waste and the leaching fields distribute the liquid waste to the surrounding soils. The soils then treat liquid waste before it leaches to ground or surface waters. If your leaching field isn’t working properly, untreated wastewater which contains pathogens (e.g., E. coli), nutrients and other harmful substances could be making their way to the waters of Tyler Lake. This contributes to the nutrient loading that fuels algae and other aquatic growth as well as creating other health hazards. The extent of the impact depends on how well your septic system is designed, installed, maintained and if it is used properly.
Here are some tips to keeping a lake-friendly septic system:
Pump your septic system regularly...at least once every three years, but the need may increase based on your usage.
Don’t dump chemicals, fats/grease or products other than septic safe toilet paper down your toilet or sinks. These products can impair the function of your septic system, reducing the breakdown of solids and clogging septic lines. Avoid garbage disposal use.
Inspect or have your system inspected. Lush green lawn over your septic field is just one indication of a failing septic system.
Use no-phosphorous laundry detergent and dish detergent. The phosphorous in detergents can lead to increased algae growth in the lake.
Stewardship of Rivers & Lakes Keeping Tyler Lake clean and beautiful is our top priority. As a part of this, there are many things that residents can do to help achieve this goal. Everything can help to keep the lake clean and beautiful. This includes, but is not limited to: inspect and pump septic tanks regularly, cleaning up pet waste, limiting use of fertilizers and reduce water waste via drips and leaks in your home. Below there are three buttons with files attached. The files are from the River Smart Organization about what individuals can do to help. Take the River Pledge today and send it to us at the email on the contact page! Help us become a River Smart waterbody and the cleanest and best lake in all of CT!