| "How can I maintain a healthy Seine River Shoreline on my property?" The shoreline is where land, water, and air meet. It is a vital edge where plants and wildlife find in abundance the resources they need for survival. We too depend on shorelines for sustenance. We have built our homes and communities along the water's edge, and we go to the shore to rest and restore our spirits. Those of us who live by water experience its magic and power everyday. Our health, our children's health, and the long term value of our waterfront property depend on how we care for this "Ribbon of Life". Keeping your lot well treed and never clear cutting to the waters edge is a definite first step in protecting shoreline habitat. Maintain a buffer zone between your property and the shoreline by leaving some grass uncut, this area is called a "riparian zone". The riparian zone is essentially an ecosystem unto itself where life of all different shapes and sizes call their home. Not only is it awesome habitat for our woodland friends, but it also limits the amount of run off going into the water such as fuels, oils, detergents, and so forth. Pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides are just as deadly to the shoreline as they are to your weeds, avoid using them near your shore. If by chance you do spill near your shoreline, clean it up fast! Oils and phosphates have a tendency to stick around for years. If you plan on building on your lot, try to do so at least 30 metres from the shore and give clear instructions to your contractors to monitor their work and watch where they tread. The last thing you want is to see your shoreline trampled and tread upon with heavy equipment, lumber and footsteps. If your shoreline has bare spots and is lacking vegetation, replant the area using native species such as willow. Not only will it look nice but it will also prevent soil erosion as the roots of the plants hold the soil together. And speaking of erosion, watch your wake when taking your boat near the shore. Limit your speed to a minimum when close to the waters edge as boat wake seriously dampers any effort to maintain a healthy shoreline. These are just a few steps you can take to maintain a healthy shoreline for your benefit, but also for the benefit of the community as a whole. A healthy restored and maintained shoreline is great for our souls, especially when we realize how much time and money we save in doing so. Simply sit back with a cold one and enjoy nature as it was meant to be. For more information please visit the Living By Water project website at www.livingbywater.ca. Submitted by Andrew Ward, Living By Water, September 4, 2002 |
| Living By Water |