Erosion removes topsoil, decreases soil fertility, reduces crop growth and causes inefficient use of crop inputs. Soil erosion can also carry sediment to surface water, degrading water quality. Sediment is any soil or rock material present in the lake transported by wind, water, or glaciers. Sediment from erosion can clog drainage and road ditches, and culverts. When excessive sediment is suspended in water, high turbidity levels may result in the City of Syracuse shutting down one of the two municipal water intakes in Skaneateles Lake.
Agriculture is one of several land uses contributing to sedimentation.
The Skaneateles Lake Watershed Agricultural Program concentrates on reducing erosion on agricultural land surrounding the lake. Good soil management practices protect against the loss of topsoil, and maintain or enhance organic matter content. This is favorable to both crop production and environmental protection. Program staff work closely with farmers to develop and implement soil management plans that limit soil loss. Revised crop rotations, contour farming, diversion ditches, grassed waterways, and reduced tillage are a few of the numerous options available to limit erosion.