Lake conservation begins with grass roots efforts recognizing the needs of the area. The following help foster awareness and effective lake conservation programs: (1)stream cleanups create public awareness and provide case studies to help others; (2) lake conservation symposia at local colleges allow speakers to address the lake conservation needs of local communities; (3) collections of lake resource materials for a local library provide easy citizen access to information; (4) a core contact list of local people most active in lake conservation can be circulated to encourage participation at lake conservation activities; (5) a file of names and addresses of all people interested in the lake community aids their notification of all events; and (6) educational projects for youth groups broaden public awareness of lake problems. Citizens should be encouraged to contact their local Extension Office, Soil & Water District, Health Department, Planning Office, Soil Conservation Service, and other citizens for assistance and advice in lake conservation projects. These efforts which have been implemented in northeastern Illinois are applicable wherever lake conservation is a matter of concern and interest.