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Protecting Northern Michigan's ​Water Resources

Mullett Lake Shoreline Survey 2016

Project Summary

During the summer of 2016, the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council conducted a shoreline survey of Mullett Lake. Surveys were designed to replicate a 2008 shoreline survey, documenting conditions that can impact water quality, including the three biggest threats to inland lakes: nutrient pollution, habitat loss, and shoreline erosion. With funding from the Mullett Lake Area Preservation Society (MAPS), this assessment was conducted on a parcel by parcel basis. Within the Mullett Lake Watershed, shoreline properties have the greatest potential to impact Mullett Lake water quality. Survey results indicate that human activity along Mullett Lake shoreline is likely impacting the lake ecosystem and water quality. 

For the full 2016 Mullett Lake Shoreline Survey Report, click here.

Please select your randomized shoreline number from the drop down in the “Shoreline ID” box below. Your randomized number was provided in the mail. Results for greenbelt score, Cladophora density, and erosion will appear by hitting ‘apply’. Your erosion and Cladophora results correspond to a code in the right panel with a short description. Click the tabs to learn more about each parameter. A legend for each map layer is shown by clicking the arrow next to the checked layer. Please do not hesitate to contact Mullett Lake Preservation Society (MAPS) or Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council for more information. 

Kind regards,
Mullett Lake Area Preservation Society

Mullett Lake Area Preservation Society
Mullett Lake Area Preservation Society
Keeping Mullett Lake and its surrounding watershed healthy for generations to come!
P.O. Box 517, Topinabee, Michigan, 49791-0517

Greenbelts

Greenbelts are a natural buffer of native vegetation between the water’s edge and your lawn that helps to reduce erosion by stabilizing the soil, filtering nutrients and other pollution. Greenbelts can also deter geese who prefer well-manicured lawns and unrestricted access to the water.

Erosion Severity

Erosion introduces sediments and excess nutrients attached to soil particles. An abnormal increase in sediments can clog the gills of fish, macroinvertebrates, and degrade habitat including fish spawning grounds. Increased nutrients can cause algal blooms that degrade lake water quality.

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L = Exposed soils, gullies up to 1″ deep.

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M = Exposed soils, gullies greater than 1″ but less than 6″ deep, and/or banks undercut by 6″ (minor slumping)

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H = Exposed soils, gullies greater than 6″ deep, and/or banks undercut by more than 6″ (severe slumping)

Cladophora Density

Cladophora is an algae that grows as a film and in later growth stages as filaments on hard substrate near the shoreline. Increased nutrients, such as phosphorus from failing septic systems, enhance Cladophora growth to abnormal levels. Monitoring Cladophora serves as a useful bio-indicator of changes to nutrient inputs near the shoreline.
 

To improve your stewardship, visit the Michigan Shoreland Stewards (MiSS) website. ​The MiSS program provides recognition for lakefront property owners who are protecting inland lakes through best management practices on their property and provides recommendations for improving your shoreline