Shoreline Landscaping: Preserving Your Properties Value Lakescape Solutions LLC Nick Homan

How old is this planting?

A.

B.

C.



1 yr.

3 yrs.

5 yrs.

Planted end of July

Before After

Value of Lake Property

Property Value Info 

10% of value is in large trees



10-20% may be in the overall landscape



40-100% is based directly on quality of your lake

Source: Eco Building and Forestry

Cost Sharing Value

WI-DNR sees enough value in shoreline buffers to offer up to 75% cost reimbursement through grant programs



When was the last time a government agency gave you $$$ for making an improvement to your property

Logo source: Wisconsin Dept of natural Resources

Benefits of Natural a Shoreline

Natural Beauty Benefits Vibrant Colors and Textures

Natural Beauty Benefits Attract Wildlife

Importance and Value to Wildlife 

90% of all lake life is born, raised and fed in the area where land and water meet.



80% of the plants and animals listed as endangered species live all or part of their lives in this littoral (near shore) zone.

Source: Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources

More Natural Beauty Benefits Keep the Cabin a Getaway from Urban Environment

Environmental Benefits 

Increased biodiversity and better plant adaptation



Help keep invasive exotics at bay



Decreased storm water runoff and reduced erosion



Better flood control

Environmental Benefits cont.



No need for additional fertilizers



Enhanced water quality protection



Increased fish and wildlife habitat

Photos: UW Lakes Extension

Satisfaction and Maintenance Benefits 

Less maintenance (after establishment)



Increased privacy and noise reduction



Enhanced natural insect control



Discourages Canada Geese from #*%!ing on your recreation space



Provides a space to teach children about nature and conservancy

Water Quality Benefits 

Reduced nutrient and sediment introduction into lake

•

1 lb of Phosphorus = 500 lbs of plants or algae

•

Increased sediment = decreased water clarity



Clean lakes = Higher property values $$$

•

Value can increase up to $75/ ft. of water clarity depth

Source:

MaryJo Gingras, Iron County Land Conservation Photo: UW lakes extension

Executing Your Shoreline Restoration

Planning Process 

Site location

• • •

Dimensions Lake access and viewing Other uses



Site problems and characteristics

• • •

Erosion Ponding Maintenance concerns



Develop design and implement plan

Installation Process 

Three basic steps 1. Remove or kill off turf 2. Mulch and plant area 3. Water and enjoy!

Start Step 1: Finish Use herbicides or black plastic to kill existing vegetation, remove dead material depending on planting method Step 2: Place mulch over area and plant with native plant materials Step 3: WATER, WATER, WATER! Most important to being successful in establishing a strong buffer.

Enjoy your new landscape investment!!!

Cost of Investment 

Plant Plugs (Aggressive)

–

$1.50-$3.50 /Sq. Ft.



Seed (Less Aggressive)

–

$1.00 -$2.50 /Sq. Ft.



Combination Seed and Plugs (Least Aggressive)



Average property with 100 feet of shoreline, plug planting

–

$4,000 - $6,000

Cost Variables 

Plant Size, age and rarity

 

Plant quantities needed & planting method

–

(seed vs. plugs) Minimum plant densities are regulated by DNR Erosion control



Mulch and other materials

– –

Erosion control materials Landscape path stone…



Equipment needs to complete work



Access to site/ time involved



Homeowner sweat equity/ DIY

Natural Shoreline and Landscape Options          

Complete shoreline restoration Shoreline editing Rain gardens Storm water management techniques Native prairies Native plant landscaping Edible Gardening Bird sanctuaries Designated recreational lawn areas Firewise landscaping

What to Expect of Your Planting 

1-3 growing seasons of establishment



Weeding/ watering



Possible re-establishment needed



Reduced maintenance with time



Possible need to control nuisance animals during establishment period

–

Usually can be done with temporary fencing

     What to Look for in a Contractor

Experience with your situation Design style approach Flexibility with homeowner input an DIY Knowledge of governing ordinances Relationship with regulating agencies

• • •

County Land and Water Conservation Dept.

Planning and Zoning Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources

   

Customer references Examples of previous work

•

Designs

•

Photos Payment and contract terms Materials sources

• •

Locally sourced when possible Plant guarantees

What You Can Have Prepared For Your Contractor 

How do you want to use the space?

• • •

Relaxation/ entertainment Site seeing Photography



What is your lifestyle/ hobbies?

• • •

Recreation Travel Kids, grandkids, pets

Photos: UW lakes extension

For Your Contractor 

Types of plants you like or dislike

• • • •

Colors Textures Wild edibles Size



Ideas for your landscape

• • •

Pathways Structures (were allowable) Viewing areas

More For Your Contractor 

Budget Restrictions $$$ ?



Sweat Equity/ DIY?



Site problems and limitations

• • • •

Septic systems Wells Electrical (private lines) Drain tiles…

Thoughts to Remember 

A natural shoreline is an investment in your property and it will help preserve and increase your property value.



The main objective is to protect our waterways from negative impact.



There are a variety of choices to tailor your landscape to your needs and lifestyle and still meet ordinance requirements.

And The Answer Is… A. 1yr.

July 2007 July 2008

“Water is the most critical resource issue of our lifetime and our children’s future. The health of our lakes is the principal measure of how we live on the land.” -Luna Leopold

Question and Answers Lakescape Solutions LLC Stevens Point, WI Nick Homan 715-340-6674