Lake-Friendly Landscapes

For nearly 75-years, volunteers, members and staff of the Glen Lake Association have worked to preserve and protect the high quality of water in the Glen Lake/Crystal River Watershed. One of the newer programs adopted by the Association is the Glen Lake Guardian. This program focuses on helping lake-shore property owners create and maintain sediment and pollution “traps” along the shoreline.

Tricia Denton

As described in this video by Program Coordinator Tricia Denton, vibrant strips of native vegetation along the shore are important contributors to water quality, helping to slow storm-water runoff and removing  unwanted sediments. Native vegetation also provide long and deep root systems that help prevent erosion from shoreline ice build up in winter. While these vegetative filter strips protect water quality, they are also important in improving habitat without blocking access to docks and the water.

Currently, the Glen Lake Association is working with the Leelanau Conservancy and others to re-write and improve its Watershed Management Plan for review and approval by the Michigan Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Department. Watershed Management Plans organize and encourage efforts by watershed groups, local governments, and others to reduce and prevent pollution from entering lakes and streams throughout Michigan.

Yarrow Brown

Program Manager, Yarrow Brown says the Leelanau Conservancy has a big stake in watershed planning and management and is happy to facilitate the development of plans with lake associations. After all, the Conservancy is a leader in protecting land from degradation and preserving healthy ecosystems, including streams, lakes and wetlands.

Please, watch the video and visit the Glen Lake Association website to learn more about Glen Lake Guardians.

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