Property- Owner Shoreland Stewardship

Shoreland Considerations

Shoreline buffers and native aquatic plant communities perform numerous necessary functions that have significant economic and ecological value.  

Vegetative buffers along the shoreline slow runoff and help catch nutrients, sediments, and other pollutants before they can reach Square Lake.  Stormwater and melting snow slowed by a buffer enters Square Lake gradually allowing unwanted nutrients to infiltrate the soil and recharge the groundwater. 

Buffers help stabilize slopes and protect banks from shoreline erosion and further runoff by deflecting the cutting action of waves and boat wakes.

Suspended sediments in the water caused by runoff and erosion reduce water quality.  The amount of sunlight that reaches submerged plants is reduced which upsets the established ecology.  Excessive sediments can smother life on the bottom, such as fish eggs and insects that are a part of the food chain.  Sediment can create algal blooms and growing areas of unwanted species that can negatively change the composition of existing plant communities.  Mucky lake bottoms and slippery rocks are also a result of sediment deposits.

Vegetative buffer areas provide essential habitat for many species of wildlife.  Birds, fish, frogs and turtles spend some or all of their life cycle in or around the water.  Buffers create important nesting, feeding, and perching areas for songbirds.  Plants attract insects that serve as food for many species.

According to the EPA, a Minnesota study showed that there is a positive relationship between water clarity and property values.  Homebuyers are influenced by water quality when making purchases and are willing to pay significantly more.