Runoff Control
Resources
Zoning and Other Regulatory Requirements
The trees, shrubs and other vegetation that line the shore at your camp are the last line of defense in reducing stormwater runoff into the Lake. Clearing vegetation may improve your view, but it harms the lake.
- Keep as much of the natural vegetation as you can (note there are state and local zoning laws you must abide as well).
- Restore native plants to shoreline areas with limited vegetation. Native plants such as beebalm or blueberries provide more runoff protection than grass.
- If vegetation cannot be added to bare areas, look into adding mulch, preferably an erosion control mix such as a very stringy mulch material made by grinding stumps in a large shredder, or a chunky blend of forest soil, bark, sand and course stone.
Vegetated buffers of trees, shrubs and groundcover plants catch sediment and other pollution before it reaches lakes or streams. Trees and shrubs intercept raindrops and reduce their impact on the soil. Low growing plants and the “duff” layer on the ground filter runoff. Root systems hold soil in place and absorb water and nutrients. In addition, buffers can enhance privacy, filter noise and wind, and attract birds, butterflies and other wildlife.