The purpose of the Reynolds Lakes Corporation shall be for the preservation and the protection of the ecology of Reynolds Lakes and for the beautification and mutual enjoyment of Reynolds Lakes on behalf of all persons living on or near Reynolds Lakes and to promote the territory by proper use of the lakes, waters and adjacent land.

For a waterfront property preparing for colder seasons, critical tasks include managing leaves and other organic debris. 

Allowing leaves to wash into the water introduces excess nutrients like phosphorus, which can contribute to algae blooms and poor water quality. 

LEAVE THE LEAVES, or if you must, mulch or compost leaves. Leaves will decompose over the winter, enriching your soil and suppressing weeds. Use a mulching mower to shred leaves and leave them on the lawn only when necessary.  If you have more leaves than your lawn can handle, add them to a compost pile to create a nutrient-rich soil amendment for next spring.

It is illegal in Michigan to dispose of leaves and other yard waste in rivers, lakes, and streams. Ensure leaves don't collect on driveways, streets, or near storm drains, as rainfall can wash them directly into the water. Never rake leaves into waterways.

The unique conditions of a waterfront property make it especially vulnerable to erosion from wind, rain, and winter ice. Fall is a great time for planting!

• Create a buffer zone by planting a 10–15-foot "no-mow" zone of native plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees along the shoreline. The deep root systems will stabilize the soil and filter runoff before it reaches the water.

• Use native plants, as they will be better adapted to local conditions and provide a natural, low-maintenance yard. 

When rain falls onto the ground, it can do one of two things: flow into the ground and become groundwater, or flow on top of the ground and become runoff. As water flows into the ground, the soil acts as a “filter,” catching and holding onto most anything that the rain water brought with it. Trees and other plant-life also capture the nutrients that the water brings along. However, when water has no way to enter the ground, it will keep travelling above ground until it hits the lakes. Since this water had no opportunity to deposit whatever it grabbed along the way, it deposits that matter into the water body, where it can begin to have negative effects on the ecosystem causing the algae we see in our lakes.

 Lake Living Tips (Keep Our Lakes and Rivers Clean) Van Buren Conservation District