Shorelines and streambanks are important and intricate parts of aquatic ecosystems. Managing these areas properly is vital to the health of our lakes, rivers and streams.

Erosion is a large problem that affects shoreline and streambanks, not only because the eroding sediment can fill in our water bodies, but also because areas that are wearing away are less stable and more likely to collapse. This is especially worrisome for homeowners that live near a creek.

Today many home owners use rip-rap and retaining walls to stabilize shorelines, but these practices do not necessarily stop erosion and they are costly. The best method for stabilization is to utilize native plantings. Native plants have a longer root system that provides strong support along the shore.

Here are more resources with information on creating a stable, natural shoreline:

• MCWD Shoreline Stabilization Demonstration Sites
• Love your Lakeshore: Go Native (Six minute video, produced by Lake Minnetonka Garden Club)
• MN DNR: Shoreland Management
• User's Guide to Shoreland Property
• Shoreline Planting and Buffer Zone Implementation
• Blue Thumb - Planting for Clean Water

Check out the video "Love Your Lakeshore: Go Native" on the merits of natural shorelines, and how you can naturalize your own: