One of the major threats to lake and river water quality is runoff after rainfall, which brings soil phosphates and pollutants into waterways. Too much phosphorus affects water quality and increases the risk of algal blooms. By preventing erosion along shorelines, the negative effects of that runoff can be substantially reduced. This summer, the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) at Midcoast Conservancy has been hard at work addressing this problem. The team of three, crew leader Brianna Smith and local teens Gabi Cooper and Eli Barter, have already completed five projects, with five more scheduled to begin this month.

Projects include the installation of rubber razors and water bars that redirect runoff flow, and infiltration stairs — gravel-filled steps which slow and absorb water before it reaches the shore — and the addition of erosion-resistant plants. Using best management practices, the crew is working with homeowners to make their properties as environmentally sound as possible. As an added bonus, the crew members are learning real-world skills in landscaping and engineering, as well as hands-on problem-solving.

Participating homeowners request evaluations of their property, review the recommendations from the crew leader, then pay for materials in exchange for free labor provided by the YCC crew. While the crew’s schedule is near capacity, interested property owners should contact Midcoast Conservancy to arrange for an evaluation visit. Email Brianna at crewleader@midcoastconservancy.org, or call (207) 389-5150.