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.
STEP 1: Take the Lake Steward Quiz
Answer 10 simple questions about your property and shoreline practices.
STEP 2: Schedule a Shoreline Evaluation
Your local Lake Steward Volunteer will reach out to schedule a visit to your property where they will use a survey developed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for evaluate your shoreline’s stewardship quality.
Shoreline restoration can seem overwhelming at times, but there’s help! Most Lake Steward participants begin with simple steps that gradually build a more natural shoreline over time.
The Shoreland Guide to Lake Stewardship can help you learn the criteria and implement improvements. You can also visit the Minnesota Natural Shoreline Partnership webpage find free resources to restore your shore.
Cost-share funding and technical assistance may also be available through your local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD).
STEP 3: Earn Your Lake Steward Award
If you’re property meets the standards that means it has the capacity to capture and filter up to 90% of runoff before it hits the lake. Qualifying properties are awarded an official Lake Steward sign and become part of a growing movement to protect Minnesota’s lakes.
Want to start the Lake Steward program on your lake?
One or two volunteers are enough to start! Email sami@mnlakesandrivers.org
Lake Steward Communications Kit: Free to download and share resources to promote the program and get your lake association members involved!
