The new homes erode the soil, which flows into the lake carrying nutrients that produce algae blooms. Officials in both towns are now moving forward with efforts to save the lake. At stake, officials say, is more than just the lake's health. Property values are also threatened, says Windham Town Council Chairman John Boyden. Nobody, he said, wants to live next to a murky, lifeless lake that stinks.
Highland Lake is in danger.
If nothing is done, in five or 10 years it won't be viable. The towns are considering an ordinance that would require that all new homes in the watershed establish natural buffers of trees and bushes to filter stormwater runoff. The measure would affect properties as far away as 1.5 miles from the lake. The proposal, which would force some new homeowners to live with smaller lawns, has yet to be tested in the public arena. It may face opposition from landowners concerned about losing their property rights.