Construction has concluded for nine lakeshore stabilization projects on the Sunrise Chain of Lakes: four on Martin Lake, three on Linwood Lake, and two on Coon Lake. Project locations were selected in 2024 based on the property's need for restoration and the anticipated water-quality benefits the project would deliver. Detailed designs were compiled, and three primary bioengineering approaches were applied. 

Funding for these projects was through a Clean Water Fund grant, the Sunrise River Watershed Management Organization, Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Aid, and landowner match. For more information contact Breanna Keith, Water Resource Specialist, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Several recently installed lakeshore projects feature a new combination of materials to protect from erosion while restoring the native plant community. Our newest approach incorporates the use of rock, coconut fiber coir logs, and a diverse native plant buffer to stabilize shorelines experiencing moderate erosion. 

 Rock was placed to the elevation at which vegetation struggled to grow and erosion regularly occurred. This elevation is different for each lake and is based on water levels, wind fetch and wave models. The goal was to choose a rock type that would create a more natural look, while still providing protection and function, while preventing undercutting and collapsing of the sandy soils above.

16" coconut fiber coir logs were installed in the zone where water level fluctuations regularly occurred, but vegetation was capable of growing. This log will protect the new plants from wave and ice action while they become established. Eventually, the log will decompose. The coir log was anchored with a new technique using sisal rope and earth anchors for a stronger hold and improved aesthetics.

A buffer of native vegetation was planted behind the coir log. Their deep and interconnected roots will serve as the long-term stability for this shoreline. 

This approach also allows for installation with smaller machinery or by hand, facilitating application to shorelines with limited access or a need to work around existing natural shoreline features.

Each year, ACD staff revisit a variety of previously installed projects to ensure that they are holding up throughout their expected lifespan. For the project owners, this is an opportunity to reconnect with technical experts and ask questions. For project managers, this improves our understanding of which materials and approaches result in the greatest success over time. For the projects themselves, this helps address issues before they become unmanageable, ensuring the natural resource benefits provided continue for years to come. 

Unlike our sanitary sewers, water, trash, and other debris entering storm drains are not routed to a treatment facility; instead, they drain into wetlands, lakes, and rivers. Some stormwater pipes drain directly to these waterbodies, while others may first pass through features like manmade ponds to provide some treatment. In either case, reducing pollution at the source is the most effective way to protect our local waters. To this end, the need to keep trash and debris out of the streets is clear. However, when flushed down the storm drain, even organic plant materials such as grass clippings, leaves, and other yard waste also contribute to harmful nutrient pollution, causing algae blooms, reduced oxygen levels, and other issues in downstream waters. 

Keeping excess plant material out of the street isn't just beneficial for water quality; it also prevents flooding, reduces the cost of storm sewer maintenance and repair, and improves travel safety. It's for these reasons that intentionally blowing leaves, grass clippings, or other materials into the street is illegal in most Minnesota cities. Instead, dispose of them at your local compost facility or through a curbside yard waste provider. If you'd like to play a more active role in improving stormwater quality, consider becoming involved in the Adopt-a-Drain program. For more information contact Breanna Keith, Water Resource Specialist, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

Are you sick of goose poop covering your lawn? Plant a buffer of native grasses, flowers, and shrubs along your shoreline to keep them out! Geese are drawn to open spaces with short, well-fertilized grass, which provides them with a buffet of their favorite food and a sense of security with the ability to easily spot predators. Add water (your lake) to the mix, and you've created an easily accessible 'goose haven'. Taller, denser vegetation along the water's edge deters geese from accessing your lawn from the lake, encouraging them to move along in search of greener pastures.  

The thicker the buffer, the more effective it will be. Not only do buffers discourage nuisance wildlife – they also provide a multitude of other benefits, including protecting your shoreline from erosion, improving water quality, and providing food and habitat for pollinators. You can use this helpful collection of technical resources, produced by the Minnesota DNR, to plan your buffer project. For more information, contact Breanna Keith, Water Resource Specialist, at Breanna.Keith@AnokaSWCD.