From the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Does restoring native shoreland vegetative buffers seem like an expensive proposition? It doesn’t necessarily have to be. Re-establishing native vegetation along the shoreline can actually be quite simple: stop mowing.

Establishing a “no-mow zone” is one of the easiest ways to start a buffer between a managed turf lawn and the water. This strategy saves landowners time and money—removing the intensive cost and labor required to water, fertilize and maintain a turf lawn near the shoreline.

Stop mowing, and over the course of one or two summers native seeds held over in the in the wet areas along the shoreline will likely germinate. These species are locally adapted to near-shore soils and conditions, and compete well against non-native turf species when allowed to grow. Native plants are also less susceptible to insects and disease than non-native plants.

If your lot dimensions allow, start with a no-mow zone of 20 to 25 feet. If your lot size can’t accommodate this width, try establishing an area that works for you. Let neighbors know what you are doing, so they don’t unknowingly try to be “helpful.” Creating a “showy border” of flowering natives can also be a visual signal of your intensions.

Shoreland experts advise shoreland homeowners to purchase a native plant guidebook and keep an eye on what’s emerging in the no-mow zone—encouraging growth of native species by weeding around them. Over time, homeowners will also want to watch for and remove any invasive species that try to establish in their no-mow zone. In particular, look for reed canary grass (2-6 feet tall, course grass with hairless stems) and purple loosestrife (more than 20 inches tall, with pink to magenta flower spikes). Invasive species lists can be found on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Web site at www.mndnr.gov.

To add variety and structure to your buffer, consider incorporating other native plantings. A diversity of native shrubs, forbs and trees will help slow runoff, establish shoreline-stabilizing root systems, and dampen the impacts of rainfall. Both the Minnesota DNR and University of Minnesota Extension Service have staff and resources that can provide assistance.

If you value your lake, take care of your shore. For more lakes information email us at lakewaves@dnr.state.mn.us.