Sewage disposal systems, water pollution, over-development, and the involvement of cottage associations are highlighted in this manual for cottagers or summer vacation homeowners. Its aim is to both inform and involve the cottage owner in the protection and preservation of his vacation environment. By reviewing a variety of problems peculiar to the development of vacation areas and homesites, an attempt is made to translate environmental principles into action toward concrete changes in legislation, economic priorities, and consumer habits. The problems and possible solutions are treated in eight sections: (1) the septic tank and tile field system, (2) other methods of sewage treatment, (3) purification of water for drinking purposes, (4) solid waste disposal, (5) pesticides, (6) boating, (7) eutrophication of a lake, and (8) development. A five-phase Self-help Guide in the final section offers investigations and actions cottage associations may undertake to protect the vacation environment. These include: education and individual correction, government pressure, water quality surveys, sanitary surveys, and community standards enforcement. A chart of government departments and functions, list of information sources, glossary of terms, index, and form letters are appended. (BL)