As our subdivision matures, repair and maintenance of all monuments, water features, retention ponds, and accompanying landscaping is crucial to the efficient preservation of our neighborhood. By doing so, structural integrity is assured while maintaining the highest possible property values for our homeowners.
Our Water
Understanding the delicate balance of the water retention ponds, for which Whispering Lakes is named, and its impact on the community is achieved through the education and participation of all homeowners throughout the subdivision. From how we mow, fertilize, and landscape our lawns, to the disposal of contaminants and debris down storm sewers, etc. each of us contribute to the buildup of silt, shore erosion, water quality, and occasional neighborhood flooding during heavy down pours. With the assistance of local aquatic professionals, our goal is to always be improving current pond conditions and be fiscally prudent with the funds available making sure decisions we make will be the correct ones that will have long lasting success.
Here are a few things we can all start doing right now to be environmentally friendly, help our ponds and the environment:
- Dispose of toxic chemicals properly. Storm drains along the curbs are for storm water only.
- If you own property on a pond, allow a 2 foot perimeter of grass to grow along the water's edge. This protects the edges from erosion; specifically in the winter when thawing ice cuts into the soil. Many properties have a specialty grass planted along the ponds' edge called, Creeping Bent. It's grown on golf courses near water holes specifically for this purpose. Our contracted landscapers have been instructed to leave the prescribed 2 foot perimeter of grass along the ponds. They will no longer be trimming to the edge. They will continue to periodically check the grates to clear them of debris.
- Water attracts garbage like a magnet. Somehow, no matter where we live, we all wind up with paper cups, mail, and assorted garbage in our yards. They don't call Chicago the Windy City for nothing. Please dispose of trash when you see it. There is nothing sadder than seeing our lovely water fall with garbage floating in the pond.
- Manage your vegetation. Debris blown into the ponds from trees and bushes create buildup and blockage in drainage pipes. If you have planted vegetation by the pond, be sure to remove limbs and leaves and other debris that may blow into the water after a storm. As we all know, blocked drainage effects the efficient outflow of water, which creates flooding in our entire neighborhood and connected subdivisions.