Every two years the Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership brings together lakeshore owners, landscapers, and environmental stewards to spark new ideas and inspire stewardship of inland lakes at the Shoreline and Shallows conference.
This year’s Shoreline and Shallows conference is back to an in-person setting and will be held at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing March 9. Featured topics will help those interested in managing lakefront property in an environmentally friendly manner. Attendees will be able to attend engaging presentations, network with exhibitors, and receive educational resources.
Natural shorelines with native vegetation such as flowering plants, shrubs, and trees provide multiple benefits to lakes, biota, and property values. As development around lakes increases, native vegetation is often removed to make swimming beaches and “uncluttered” yards. However, this vegetation is important because it intercepts pollutants before they flow into a water body and thereby deter nutrients from entering the water. Vegetation also protects the shore from erosion by dissipating wave energy. Shoreline plants and downed trees also provide habitat to a variety of wildlife including birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish. Studies have shown that native vegetation along lakes can positively affect property values by increasing water quality and offering aesthetic appeal.
This year’s Shoreline and Shallows conference theme is “Improving near shore habitat for people, plants, and animals,” and it will feature a variety of experts from state government, non-profit, and private industries. The conference will kick off with a presentation on the current state of Michigan shorelines based on findings from the National Lake Assessment conducted by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Speakers from the Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources will share how downed trees provide critical habitat for wildlife and how they can be used for projects such as “fish sticks” and “turtle logs.” The conference will also highlight one of the largest projects in Michigan for shoreline erosion control using trees and other woody structures. Other topics include the future of bioengineering along shorelines, aquatic plants, and an overview of the best management practices associated with the updated shoreline permitting process.
Networking opportunities include an exhibitor hall, refreshment area, and a luncheon. The cost to attend is $50 for those registering by Feb. 26. After that date, registration is $65. The cost includes lunch. For a complete agenda and registration information visit the Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership Shoreline and Shallows conference website at https://www.shorelinepartnership.org/shoreline--shallows-conference.html
The conference is hosted by the Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership and its member organizations including Michigan State University Extension; Michigan State University’s Institute of Water Research; Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; Michigan Department of Natural Resources; and GEI Consultants.
Categories: Michigan, Energy, Government & Policy, Sustainable Agriculture