What is a natural shoreline?

A natural shoreline is a habitat with a diverse mix of plants near and within the water. Native plants maximize benefits such as capturing runoff, filtering pollution, and providing habitat for wildlife. Deep roots of native plants also hold soil in place and use up nutrients that would otherwise cause algae blooms. A natural shoreline creates a buffer between land and water that reduces erosion from wave action.

Permits needed for shoreline work

Modifications to a shoreline such as placement of riprap (rock), re-grading or movement of soil, creating a beach, installing a retaining wall triggers the District's Rule F and requires a permit from the District.  Not sure you need a permit? Please email Terry Jeffery.

Aquatic plants for lake health

Native aquatic plants provide valuable services in protecting lake health. They shelter young fish and other small animals, reflect heat to keep water cooler, absorb water pollution, provide food for ducks and other birds, and so much more! Because of these benefits, the Minnesota DNR regulates aquatic plants. If you want to control or remove aquatic plants, you will most likely need a permit. Learn more from the DNR Aquatic Plant Management Program.

Resources for lakeshore residents

• Score Your Shore - A tool developed by the DNR to help shoreline property owners assess the state of their shore.
• Apply for a Grant - Residents of the District are eligible for grants up to 75% of the project cost for projects that protect and improve water resources, such as restoring a shoreline.
• Restore Your Shore - a collection of DNR resources to help you restore your natural shoreline, such as solutions to common problems, plant guides to help you choose the right plants for your shore, and step-by-step guides to help you complete your project.
• Request a Survey - Permits are required for work done below the Ordinary High Water Level (OHWL). To determine your properties OHWL, contact your local DNR Waters area hydrologist for a survey. OHWL reports are available for some individual lakes using LakeFinder, but you still need a survey to determine the exact level of your property.
• Shoreline Alteration Info Sheets from the Mn DNR

Other Resources:

• Lake Fact Sheets (RPBCWD)
• Shoreline Alteration Info Sheets (MnDNR)
• Native Plant Finder (The National Wildlife Federation) - explore native plants by zip code
• List of native plant suppliers, landscapers, and restoration consultants (MnDNR)
• List of native plant nurseries and landscaping consultants (Wild Ones)

Shallow Lakes Webinar

What does a shallow lake look like, and why are plants so important in a shallow lake? What are the rules and regulations regarding shallow lakes? Joe Bischoff, a Senior Aquatic Ecologist and Certified Lake Manger with Barr Engineering Co, will present this webinar on April 12th at 6:30pm. Register here.

Need Seeds?

The District will begin offering native shoreline seed mixes next month. This mix contains shorter grasses & sedges that highlight a diverse list of wildflowers for shoreline areas. Expect 2-3' tall blooming flowers, meant for 1-2' up from the water's edge. Email Eleanor to be notified when seed mix becomes available.

Goose trouble?

Canada geese can be pests in a backyard, and scare tactics such as pinwheels and scarecrows only work for so long. Looking for a long-term solution? Restore your shore! The tall and thick vegetation of a natural shoreline discourages Canada geese from strolling into your yard.

 Canada goose, source: Wikimedia Commons

Questions?

Contact Terry Jeffery at tjeffery@rpbcwd.org or 952-807-6885.

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