Project Summary
In the spring of 2024, Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council (hereafter referred to as the Watershed Council) contracted with Douglas Lake Improvement Association (hereafter referred to as DLIA) to conduct a shoreline survey on Douglas Lake in the summer of 2024. This shoreline survey project is also funded in part by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. In 2021, the Watershed Council acquired funding from EGLE to address poor shoreline management and weak water resource protection ordinances within the Burt Lake Watershed. Thus, through funding generously provided by
DLIA and EGLE, the shoreline of Douglas Lake was fully surveyed and assessed for algal growth and density, erosion severity, degree of parcel development, shoreline alterations, and greenbelt status. Documenting this data, on an individual parcel status, expedites the understanding of inland lake shoreline conditions and their subsequent impact on water quality. The invaluable lake data generated via the shoreline survey can be used to assess long-term trends in shoreline health and protect and maintain the high-quality waters of Douglas Lake.
For the full 2024 Douglas Lake Shoreline Survey Report, click here.
The purpose of the Douglas Lake Improvement Association is to preserve, protect and improve the quality of Douglas Lake and its environs and the quality of life of its residential community. Learn more.
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.
Greenbelt Scores
Table 8. Greenbelt Scoring Chart.
Score | Length (%) | Depth (feet) |
0 | Absent | Absent |
1 | <10% | <10 |
2 | 10-25% | 10-40 |
3 | 25-75% | >40 |
4 | >75% | N/A |
Greenbelt ratings for the length and depth of the vegetation were summed to produce an overall score describing the status, or health, of the greenbelt. Scores of 0 were considered very poor, 1-2: poor, 3-4: moderate, 5-6: good, and 7: excellent.
Erosion Severity
L = Exposed soils, gullies up to 1″ deep. |
M = Exposed soils, gullies greater than 1″ but less than 6″ deep, and/or banks undercut by 6″ (minor slumping) |
H = Exposed soils, gullies greater than 6″ deep, and/or banks undercut by more than 6″ (severe slumping) |
Cladophora Density
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
