Save Our Shorelines (SOS)
- Jonathan Schoen
- 12 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Who? Lakeshore homeowners interested in improving water quality, reducing algal blooms, and protecting their shoreline from the damage caused by wind, waves, and ice heaves.
What? SOS: Save Our Shorelines - A program to incentivize lakeshore Best Management Practices (BMPs) and promote the LID’s cost share program for shoreline restoration projects. LID staff will provide consultation and resources to help lakeshore residents manage their shoreline for stabilization, water quality, and wildlife habitat. A custom SOS sign will be awarded to homeowners based on current lakeshore conditions which encourage wildlife and enhance water quality, or measurable steps taken to achieve a restored shoreline as discussed at a site visit.
Where? Lakeshore residents within the LID are eligible for this program. Including all residents living on North and South Center Lake.
Why? According the 2023 report Minnesota’s Vanishing Natural Shorelines: A Loss that Contributes to Degraded Lake Quality, about half of Minnesota’s natural shorelines have been lost to date. Mowed shorelines allow 7 to 9 times more pollutants to enter the lake than a naturally vegetated shoreline. When pollutants and excess nutrients accumulate in lakes, serious water quality problems can result, including harmful algal blooms and excessive aquatic vegetation. Additionally, valuable habitat for fish, waterfowl, amphibians, and pollinators is lost.
How? Take our self-assessment quiz to assess how your current actions are affecting the lake. Provide your contact information if you’d like to request a site visit from LID staff to identify goals and discuss next steps.
For more information:
