Lakeshore Property

Storm water falls and begins to collect contaminants from the air, buildings, and yard space. Impervious surfaces like the roof of a building (A) or paved driveway/walkways, expedite the flow of storm water runoff. (Shown with white arrows.) Slowing runoff with a rain barrel (B) under a downspout not only catches excess water, but is a good source of extra water for gardens. Broken surfaces like stone or pebble walkways (C) allow water to better soak into the ground. Trees and native plants act as a sponge, soaking up storm water runoff. Strategically placed rain gardens with native flowers and plants are helpful for soaking up excess storm water runoff. The slope along a the   building (D) in the graphic above would be a good location. People go to the lake to enjoy it. We understand the value of a sandy  beach.  But over development of shoreline and the elimination of all natural shoreline buffers reduces the ability of a lake to protect itself from contaminants. Removing shoreline vegetation in small amounts  is often  permissible, however, we strongly encourage leaving more than you  remove. Maybe the removal of some vegetation at (E) is partnered with encouraged growth in other locations like (F) and (G). Natural shoreline buffers can be as simple as leaving a section of no-mow grasses along the lake, or in cases where shoreline damage has occurred, newer practices like the addition of Coir Logs can be used. A berm or shoreline ridge (H) is helpful in limiting direct rain runoff. Sometimes these ridges are created naturally from ice heaves in the spring. These buffers not only protect your property from erosion and wave action,  but also provide habitat for fish, birds, and animals. Native  shorelines are essential for the natural cycles that support our legendary  Minnesota fisheries.