Prevent Disturbances: Recommended Actions
Aquatic and transitional
zones
Reduce wave action by installing a wave break (top photo). This will
create a calm area where submersed aquatic plants might reestablish
on their own. If the shoreline is also stabilized enough, some emergent
and transitional plants may reappear over time and grow. Remember that
you may need a DNR permit to install a wave break.
Upland zone
First, discontinue practices that remove native vegetation or prevent
it from establishing:
- mowing
- expanding your lawn area
- removing native plants, both on land and in the water.
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Next, actively control the source of competition that discourages native
plants:
- non-native exotic plants
- nuisance critters
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If your property has a good native seed bank nearby, you can naturally
restore your shoreline in phases. First, stop mowing a 10-15' strip of
sod at the water's edge. When the native plants are successfully reestablishing,
you may increase the buffer zone by expanding the unmowed area.
Maintenance
Weeding - Spot check for weeds every two weeks. Watch for invasive
species, like reed canary grass, purple loosestrife, spotted
knapweed, burdock, Canada thistle, nettles, and common buckthorn.
Remove undesired plants by hand-pulling or spot spraying. Mulch between
leaves will help prevent weeds from germinating.
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