A healthy shoreline is the last line of defense between the land and the lake. Lake Steward is creating a new aesthetic and social norm for lakeshore living by recognizing property owners who are committed to protecting water quality and preserving wildlife habitat.
Thank you to our 2026 Shoreline Stewardship Sponsors:
How It Works
1. Take the Lake Steward Quiz
Answer 10 simple questions about your property and shoreline practices.
2. Schedule a Shoreline Evaluation
A trained Lake Steward Evaluator will visit your property and use a survey tool to score the shore.
3. Earn Your Lake Steward Award
Qualifying properties receive official Lake Steward recognition and become part of a growing movement to protect Minnesota’s lakes.
Most participants begin with simple steps and gradually build a more natural shoreline over time. The Shoreland Guide to Lake Stewardship (available to MLR members at a discounted rate) can help you learn the criteria and implement improvements.
Cost-share funding and technical assistance may also be available through your local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). Visit the Minnesota Natural Shoreline Partnership webpage to find more resources to restore your shore!
Want to start the Lake Steward program on your lake? Be a Lake Steward Evaluator!
Your lake association must be a current MLR organization member. One or two volunteers are enough to start. Contact the MLR Lake Steward Coordinator to schedule training and add your lake to the quiz.
Lake Steward Evaluator Resources: Use these to promote the program and get your lake association members involved!
- Lake Steward Announcement Template
- Letter to Lake Association Members Template
- It’s SHORE Important Card Game (great for booths!)
- Bus Tour Planning Guide
Shoreline Stewardship Series: Short 30 second videos to download and share:
Social Media Graphics
