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Protecting Northern Michigan's ​Water Resources

Bass Lake Shoreline Survey 2022

Welcome to the 2022 Shoreline Survey of Bass Lake. First, find your unique ID on the address label of your Lake Charlevoix Association newsletter. Next, enter your unique ID in the box on the left under “Unique ID number–Type in your unique ID.”

A legend for each map layer is shown by clicking the arrow next to the checked layer. 

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council conducted a 2022 Shoreline Survey of Bass Lake with funding from a Special Assessment District of the Township of Elk Rapids. The Watershed Council circumnavigated the entire Bass Lake shoreline on kayaks to document signs of nutrient pollution (algal growth), habitat loss, and shoreline erosion.

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.

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 of the ERCOL, 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