Home, Structures, and Septic Systems

Living in a lake-friendly way goes beyond outdoor activities and landscaping. The way we live in and maintain our home plays an important role in keeping pollutants out of groundwater and out of the lake.

Alternative Household Products: List of less toxic and nontoxic product substitutions to use around the house

Dripline Infiltration Trench: A stone-filled trench under the roof dripline to collect water from a roof, allowing it to soak into the ground (from Soak Up the Rain New Hampshire)

If you have existing issues with water entering your basement, a dripline infiltration trench may not be the right choice for your home. Consider reviewing Keeping your Home’s Feet Dry for additional guidance.

Dry Well: Collects runoff water from gutter downspouts and roofs valleys, allowing it to soak into the ground (from Soak Up the Rain New Hampshire)

Hardness in Drinking Water: New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services factsheet that includes health standards, testing information, and tips for reducing or eliminating salt use in the home when dealing with hard water

Heating Oil Tank Safety: New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services homeowners guide to exterior oil tank maintenance and safety

Keeping Your Home’s Feet Dry: A manual on surface water and how it can find its way into your home

Septic (Homeowners Guide): New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services homeowners guide to septic system maintenance

Septic (informational Website): The “Get Pumped! New Hampshire” website is dedicated to teaching you everything you need to know about your septic system to protect your family, water quality, and wallet

Septic Systems for Healthy Lakes: Lake-friendly steps to maintain your septic system

New Hampshire Homeowner’s Guide to Stormwater Management: Do-it-yourself solutions for reducing runoff water at your home from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services