Natural shorelines are becoming increasingly important as property along lakes, rivers, and streams become more developed. To view local examples of natural shorelines go to the drop down menue under Natural Shoreline Designs and select a project.
In 2011 Carolyn completed the Michigan Natural Shoreline Professional Training and Certification Program. This certification was created and offered through the partnership of Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association, Department of Natural Resources, and additional partners. Information about this certification program can be found at https://sites.google.com/site/mishorelinepartnership/.
Shoreline Buffer Strips
A shoreline buffer strip is the vegetative cover that begins at or near the shoreline and reaches inland. This cover may already exist, partially so, or not at all on your property. Some of the many ways a shoreline buffer strip helps preserve the water quality is by helping filter and soak up water and nutrient runoff, stabilize shoreline, protect aquatic and wildlife habitat, and absorb noise.
When selecting plants for your shoreline buffer strip, it is important to select Michigan native plant species that anchor shoreline soils with deep roots to prevent soil erosion, provide a beneficial habitat for wildlife, and enhance the beauty of the shoreline property. To help determine which plants are right for your property, check the soil type, moisture content, and climatic conditions. Also, taking a plant inventory of an existing natural site nearby can provide a good indication of what plants will work the best in your area.
