Inland lakes are places where family and friends gather to enjoy each other and the recreational opportunities that abound. Memories created during these times inspire a generation to share the experience with the next.
Lakefront property owners, other citizens, and all communities benefit socially and economically from healthy lake ecosystems. With over 11,000 inland lakes and more than 1,850 units of government in Michigan, it is evident that all local governments play a role in protecting the state’s waters.
The purpose of this program is to teach inland lake property owners and local officials the benefits of maintaining shorelines in a natural state and to teach about tools and resources for property owners to plan and protect natural shorelines and for local governments to plan for and regulate natural shoreline techniques.
Specific topics include:
- Introduction to Shorelines – Healthy Lake Ecosystems, Understanding the Shoreline, Aquatic Plants
- Natural Shorelines and Healthy Fisheries
- Planning, designing your natural shoreline project
- Maintenance and Natural Shoreline Success
- Local Planning and Zoning for Natural Shorelines
- State of Michigan Shoreline Rules and Regulations
- Hands-on Aquatic Invasive Plant Identification
Participants will also enjoy a field component examining a local natural shoreline project.
The Program runs from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m.
Cost: $25 – Early Registration (on or before June 30); $40 after June 30. Includes handouts, refreshments, and lunch.
Optionally, also order the MSU Extension bulletin Natural Shoreline Landscapes on Michigan’s Inland Lakes for an additional $25 at checkout. The Guidebook provides a broad understanding of healthy inland lake ecosystems, an understanding of why natural shorelines are important for lakes, ideas for creating a more attractive natural shoreline, ideas for soft-shoreline alternatives to hard-shoreline structures in low energy conditions, and a basic understanding of regulatory requirements when work is done at the shoreline.
Registration: Please visit the registration website for more information and to register. Early registration ends on June 30th.
Cancellation and Refund Policy:
There is a $15 administrative fee for cancellations received after July 14.
Program supported in part by Networks Northwest, Northeast Michigan Council of Governments, and the Burt Lake Preservation Association.
