As some of you know, (and some of you don't) I am engaged to Nick Solomon from IMPACK 6 Joint Powers Board. He is the vegetation restoration specialist for Kanabec, Pine, Mille Lacs, Isanti, Chisago, and Aitkin counties. I learn more and more about his duties and cause every day, and I always like to share a little here in blogland.
Nick deals primarily with waterfront, restoring the lake shore, designing natural landscaping, and encouraging 
responsible and healthy lake behavior. He talks a lot about what needs to be done to save our lakes here in Minnesota. They are our pride and joy, a source of great entertainment (fishing, water skiing, etc.) and something that we need to take good care of to encourage life to continue.
As I show more and more lakehomes, I notice a common thread that frightens me. Nearly all of them (I would honestly say at least 95%) have mowed their grass all the way to the shore along their entire frontage. I'll admit, it does look pretty, but have you ever considered the consequences?
Fish have nowhere to hide. Small and big fish alike love to have places to hide. Why do we fish weed beds? Because that's where the fish are. Giving them some extra vegetation will encourage them to hang out in your area of the lake, and give them safe breeding and hiding areas. Nick and I plan on buying our children lifetime fishing licenses - I just hope that the fish can continue to populate!
Algae. Many lakes begin to become overridden with phosporus from chemicals and other things found in our yards. When it rains, it washes into the lake, and upsets the PH balance. This can cause things like blue green algae and other things to make your lake look (and smell) a lot less desirable!
Erosion. When the shore has nothing to break the waves, erosion can become out of hand. Some homeowners lose many feet of their land in just a short amount of time. By having some native vegetation, you slow those waves down, and keep ALL of your land, instead of losing it to the lake.
More wildlife. By having some native vegetation, you will be able to enjoy more wildlife on your property. Grouse, pheasant, deer, and birds of all sorts LOVE native plants, and many will return to your home time and time again for the safe haven you have created. You may also see waterfowl resting along your shore, enjoying the peace and safety you have provided them. If they could, they would definitely say thank you.
There are many more reasons to maintain a healthy lakeshore. It can be very easy to care for, and very pretty. If you would like more information about lakeshore in Minnesota, call Nick Solomon at 320-679-3781 ext. 120.
Looking for a waterfront home or cabin? You have come to the right place! Simply send me, Joslyn Panka, an e-mail or give me a call anytime, and I will be happy to assist you in your Minnesota lakeshore home hunt!
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