Tilton Conservation Commission

AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species

See a map of AIS in NH
New Hampshire DES and local communities continue to work to reduce the aquatic invasive species which threaten the health of our lakes and rivers.
New Hampshire is working to educate boaters who come into New Hampshire from other states, where different AIS are present, so that they don’t bring
additional species into the state when they visit New Hampshire’s waters. In 2021, an out-of-state boater decal program went into effect, requiring boaters
with vessels registered in a state other than New Hampshire to purchase an invasive species decal. An online vendor site was established with information
about AIS and a portal to purchase a $20 decal, which they affix to their vessel. The platform allows NHDES to gather information about the number and
types of vessels visiting New Hampshire from out of state, and proceeds from decal sales will be used for prevention and control efforts for AIS infestations in
New Hampshire. This program is still growing, but it is hoped that it will help continue to educate transient boaters about the role they play
in keeping New Hampshire waterbodies free from AIS. Use the link above to check on your community.

If you plan to fertilize your lawn, keep in mind that the type of fertilizer you use and how and when you apply it can have a big impact on the environment around you.
Fertilizer contains nutrients that plants need, such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. If not applied properly, those nutrients can be carried away by stormwater runoff
and washed into lakes and ponds. Those nutrients are causing too much plant growth in our surface water, which can cause real damage.
Some areas of New Hampshire, such as the Great Bay, are grappling with issues of excess nitrogen and other popular lakes and ponds are seeing excess phosphorus.

· Stimulate algae blooms including cyanobacteria,
which has been proven toxic for humans and animals.
· Reduce oxygen levels for fish.
· Fill in lakes or ponds over time.

It’s important to note that there are alternatives to using fertilizer; for example, you can get a similar effect by leaving lawn clippings and leaf litter on your lawn.
The nutrients grass use to grow are trapped in the blades. Leaving grass clippings to break down in your lawn returns those nutrients to the soil to be used again.
(Good news! Leaving clippings does not contribute to thatch.) You are feeding your lawn and saving yourself the work of emptying a mower bag. If you do want to
use fertilizer, though, you can help to protect our lakes and ponds, whether you live near them or not, by following some general application guidelines.

No two fertilizers, or lawns, are necessarily equal. You will see that fertilizer packaging comes with a number code, such as “33-0-4” and “5-10-15,” corresponding with an N-P-K.
These numbers tell us how much of a nutrient is in the fertilizer: the first number is N (nitrogen), then P (phosphorus) and lastly K (potassium).
The amount of certain nutrients you will need in your fertilizer depends on what your soil is lacking. Most established lawns in New Hampshire do not need a lot of phosphorus.
New Hampshire soils naturally contain the phosphorus most lawns need to grow. Leaving your lawn clippings can also provide phosphorus for your lawn.

You don't want to apply more nutrients than the plants can take up – that wastes your money and labor and causes pollution.
Look for N-P-K that are 10 or lower – these are generally organic (natural) sources that are naturally slow release.
Look for the OMRI label. In addition to slow-release, look for water-insoluble nitrogen. A water insoluble choice will help decrease the number of applications needed.

Important: It is illegal to apply fertilizer within 25 feet of a lake or pond over 10 acres in size and many streams and rivers that are protected under the
New Hampshire Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act. It is a great idea to treat all water bodies in the same way.

If you do end up with leftover fertilizer, you can save it and use it next year. When storing fertilizer, it’s important to make sure to store it in
a dry place and close the bag with a clip, so there isn’t a danger of nutrients leaking from the bag.

Shelter Plan - Evacuation Plan - Emergency Kit

Warnings and alerts - FEMA app

Make copies of important documents and insurance info

Declutter drains and gutters - bring in lawn furniture
Keep cell phone and mobile devices charged
Have sufficient food, medications, disinfectants, pet supplies for at least a week
Have more water than you think you'll need - at least enough for 3-7 days
Have extra water available for cleaning or other needs