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 Opening Your Cottage for the Season

Tips from the Demond Pond Watershed Association

Spring is here, and it’s time to open up your cottage on beautiful Demond Pond! Whether you're a seasoned resident or a new property owner, preparing your cottage properly helps protect your home, your family, and the watershed we all share. Here are our top suggestions to get your cottage ready for the season.

✅ General Inspection and Safety

• Walk the Property: Check for fallen limbs, erosion, or animal burrows around your foundation or septic area.
  
  

• Inspect the Roof & Gutters: Clear out debris and check for loose shingles or signs of winter damage.
  
  

• Check for Critters: Look for signs of rodents, bats, or insects that may have moved in during the off-season.
  
  

• Test Smoke & CO Detectors: Replace batteries and test alarms throughout the cottage.
  
  

• Fire Extinguishers: Make sure they are in working order and easily accessible.
  
  

💧 Water System Start-Up

• Turn Water On Slowly: Open valves and faucets gradually to avoid pressure shocks in the pipes.
  
  

• Inspect for Leaks: Watch for dripping faucets, toilet leaks, or any water around appliances and plumbing.
  
  

• Flush Pipes: Run faucets and showers for a few minutes to flush stale water and sediment from the system.
  
  

💡 Power and Appliances

• Turn Power Back On Safely: If you disconnected the main breaker in the fall, turn it on after verifying appliances are off.
  
  

• Test Lights and Outlets: Make sure everything is functioning correctly and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
  
  

• Check Large Appliances: Plug in your fridge, stove, and other appliances. Listen for odd noises or check for unusual smells.
  
  

• Inspect Extension Cords: Look for fraying or damage caused by mice or moisture.
  
  

🌿 Yard and Dock Maintenance

• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and winter buildup from paths, decks, and patios.
  
  

• Check Docks and Moorings: Reinstall seasonal docks carefully and inspect anchor points and flotation devices.
  
  

• Maintain the Shoreline: Avoid removing native vegetation and report signs of erosion to the Association.
  
  

♻️ Septic and Waste Considerations

• Inspect the Septic System: If it's been several years, it might be time for a pump-out. Watch for soggy areas or odors near the leach field.
  
  

• Dispose of Trash Responsibly: Rutland's transfer station is open for seasonal cottage use. Let’s keep litter out of the watershed!
  
  

🌊 Help Protect Demond Pond

The Demond Pond Watershed is a shared resource—healthy water begins with responsible cottage care.
Please follow these simple practices:

• Use phosphate-free soaps and detergents.
  
  

• Avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides near the water.
  
  

• Use native plants in your landscaping to reduce erosion and runoff.
  
  

• Never flush wipes, grease, or hazardous materials.
  
  

📣 Stay in Touch

Be sure to:

• Join or renew your DPWA Membership
  
  

• Follow us on social media for community updates
  
  

• Check the website for upcoming lake events and boating reminders
  
  

For questions or more seasonal tips, contact us at [insert email] or visit our Contact page.

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