August 28, 2006
One of the most important things a riparian property owner can do to protect water quality is maintain or reestablish a native green belt along their shoreline. This concept has been promoted along Higgins Lake for many years. Literature has been distributed, a shoreline technician was hired to work directly with property owners, and we now have successfully installed 5 native greenbelts. Financial assistance for the greenbelts was provided by the MDEQ and matched with property owner contributions. The Higgins Lake Foundation promoted the program and Higgins Lake Landscaping provided professional services.

Click here to download a pdf file highlighting the greenbelt sites

Five motivated property owners, including the Springsteads, Kiks, Bangs, Isensteins and Fultzs, took part in the Greenbelt Planting Project. As part of this project one seawall was removed, pervious walkways were installed, and native vegetation was planted at all five properties. Not only do greenbelts protect water quality—they also add beauty to the lakefront.

Before Michigan lakes and streams became popular sites for homes and cottages, they were lined with native trees, grasses, flowers and shrubs that acted as natural filters, effectively limiting the amount of nutrients and sediment entering the water. With development, these natural barriers were often replaced with turf grass lawns, terracing, and seawalls.

Native vegetation along rivers and lakes is essential for protecting water quality by controlling runoff, minimizing erosion, and absorbing nutrients. These natural buffers also provide vital wildlife habitat, add to the natural beauty of the shoreline, increase privacy, and lower lawn care costs once established.

Greenbelts offer many advantages for residents and visitors of our lakes, streams, and rivers. Among other things, they are useful for:

• Filtering out sediment and other pollutants
• Preventing erosion
• Protecting buildings and property and reducing maintenance costs
• Providing privacy, noise control, and aesthetic benefits
• Deterring geese
• Establishing corridors for wildlife
• Encouraging fish spawning
• Attracting butterflies and birds

Many people are unaware of the enormous benefits that native plants can bring to one’s property. Oftentimes, native plants are considered to be weed-like and unattractive. In actuality, native plants include many grasses, flowers, trees, and shrubs that can strongly enhance the quality and beauty of your shoreline. Most importantly, native plants are easy to maintain. Because they have adapted to Michigan’s soils and climate, they thrive almost anywhere and require very little care. Also, native plants provide habitat and food for many of Michigan’s native animals.