Tips offered on how to be good neighbor on Maine’s lakes this summer

RANGELEY –The Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust has offered tips on how to be a good neighbor on the water and to protect the natural resource that we all love — the lakes — during this year’s summer season. While the focus is on Rangeley Lake, the same advice are useful for any lake in Maine.

Garbage and human waste: Plan on how to handle bathroom breaks on the lake for yourselves and your animals. There are only public facilities on Rangeley Lake at the Town Park and at Rangeley State Park.
Other land is owned privately, and it is against the law to trespass. The authorities will be called. Check for public facilities on other water bodies. No one wants human or animal waste on their property, nor do we want it washing back into the lake after a good rain.
Minimize food packaging and debris before getting on the boat. Garbage should be packed off the lake with you. Apples, watermelons and other food products attract domestic and wild animals. Their leftovers and other rubbish are an eyesore that someone else will have to clean up.

On water and on shore: Do not “raft up” within close proximity of private camps. Everyone is trying to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Your good time shouldn’t ruin theirs. Camps can’t move, but your boat can.
Sound carries extremely well on a lake. Please be mindful of the camps and others around you and their right to enjoy peace and quiet. Remember, your music and voice carries across the water and every word can be heard.

Decrease your impact: Watch wildlife from a respectful distance. Stressing loons and other waterfowl may affect their ability to rear young.
Motorized boats must be at headway speed within 200 feet of shore. Please keep your wake low so children and wildlife may also enjoy the use of the lake.

The things that make the lake special to you also makes it special to others. Thoughtful changes are worth it so everyone can enjoy and continue to enjoy their time here.
The
Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust maintains traditional public access and uses of its land for recreation, education, and scientific study. It also offers a summer youth program, maintain a water quality program, and offer remote and traditional camping at Cupsuptic Lake Park and Campground. for more information, visit rlht.org.

PHOTO: Enjoying the summer on Rangeley Lake. (RLHT photo)