Native Shorelines

Native shorelines provide great ecological value to waterways and wetlands in the state of Wisconsin. These ecosystem services include reducing erosion and nutrient runoff into the water, promoting healthy and diverse wildlife habitat, preventing the establishment and spread of invasive species, and improving overall water quality, while also providing natural beauty to the area.

Washington County hosted a Native Shoreline Workshop in February of 2023 to provide riparian residents with resources on how to improve their shorelines. Speakers from UW Stevens Point, Johnson’s Nursery, and Washington County presented to over 20 County residents, both in-person and virtually, on the science and value of natural shorelines, shoreline plant selections, design considerations, and shoreline regulations & permitting. Attendees were provided with various shoreline resources for additional information as well as for implementation of any future shoreline projects they may undertake.

View the Native Shoreline Workshop recording here:

• For resources on how to improve your shoreline, including those mentioned in the above workshop presentation, visit: UW Stevens Point’s Water and Shoreland Resources or contact Lynn Markham, Shoreland Specialist, at [email protected]

• For information on available grant funding visit the Wisconsin Healthy Lakes & Rivers Program

• Johnsons Nursery Native Plant Guide