Natural shorelines are often called the RIBBON OF LIFE

Natural shorelines are crucial to maintaining the cleanliness and health of our lake. They act as natural filters, catching and holding a wide range of nutrients and contaminants that enter the water from the upland area. They are the water’s best protection against erosion and provide a free, valuable habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife and promote a thriving lake ecosystem!  It’s never too late to restore an altered shoreline to its natural state by replanting native shrubs and grasses, removing break walls and switching to shore-friendly docks. Click here to watch the Ribbon Of Life video

Protecting water quality and sustaining the lake’s ecosystem is key to preserving the value of Salerno Lake properties. The SDLCA leads many of these initiatives to ensure that our lake remains healthy—because a healthy lake means strong and lasting property values.

In October 2012, as part of creating the Salerno Lake - Lake Plan, the Salerno Lake Shoreline Inventory Project was undertaken through U-Links, and a report was completed by Trent University student Devon Fowler. The purpose of the shoreline inventory is to aid in the continued efforts supporting shoreline preservation and management. 

​Educating our community about how to improve our Ribbon of Life is a top initiative for the SDLCA.
What you should know before you remove a tree
Shoreline Tree Preservation By-Law
Refer to these Documents on the webpage:
By-Law 3505 – Shoreline Tree Preservation
FAQs – County of Haliburton Shoreline Tree Preservation​

SHORELINE PLANT SEARCH

​So why not take an area and plant it with native plants to help protect our lakes! You can start with a small area and then add more area over the years. Every little bit will help your lake where you, your kids and grandchildren can make new memories! 

The Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Associations (CHA), working with Julia Sutton and their technology partner (TechnicalitiesPlus) has created a web page that will present you with a selection of "Native" trees, scrubs, grasses, wildflowers and ferns for your property.  The tool has options to specify your soil, sunlight, moisture, and location. 

​Abbey Gardens is gearing up to source all of the plants and trees - contact them for availability.  Anyways, great tool to maintain or bring your shoreline back to life and greatly enhance your shoreline for all your aquatic friends.
 
Click here for Expert Recommendations on What to Plant Where 
 
Click here to find out HOW TO --> GO NATIVE​
What should a natural shoreline contain?  
 
Click here to launch this video on Healthy Shorelines from FOCA. 
 
Read this document about shoreline vegetative buffers and learn more about... 
  • What are Shoreline Buffers?
  • Why is it Important to maintain a Shoreline Vegetation?
  • How Wide Should a Buffer Be?
  • What Should a Buffer Look Like?​
Simple Steps Toward Shoreline Harmony
  1. Keep your lot well-treed - never clear-cut
  2. Protect shoreline vegetation - replant areas lacking shrubs and trees with natural species
  3. Start a buffer strip by leaving some grass uncut near the water
  4. Build at least 30 metres away from the shore
  5. Give clear instructions to your contractors and monitor their work
  6. Avoid spilling fuels, antifreeze, paint thinner or other chemicals on land or water - clean up fast!
  7. Don't use fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides near the water
  8. Use only phosphate-free soaps, detergents and cleaners at your cottage
  9. Pump out your septic tank regularly - every three to five years
  10. Extend the life of your septic systems by avoiding tank additives and minimizing water consumption
  11. Refuel your boat with care - don't spill a drop
  12. Watch your boat's wake - it causes erosion

​Courtesy The Living By Water Project
Easy tips for you to try and include:
​
Plant native vegetation close to shore as a buffer zone.

Use aquatic-friendly plants like bulrushes, cattails & lily pads to increase the water clarity of your waterfront by trapping sediments and dampening wave effects.

Decrease erosion caused by runoff by using pea gravel or wood chips along your walkways & paths instead of concrete or asphalt.

Turf lawns let up to 50% of rainfall wash away and increase the erosion potential of your shoreline. Try adding sections of tall grasses, wildflowers & shrubs to conserve shoreline stability.

​Use floating, seasonal docks for less shoreline impact.