Follow the rules for shoreline cleanup to keep erosion at bay

Mariquita Sheehan, conservation specialist with Vilas County Land and Water Department, has shared some recommendations for homeowners who saw storm damage to their shorelines during last month’s thunderstorm.

Sheehan checked with the local zoning department and DNR staff to find recommendations on how to handle shoreline cleanup projects while also keeping shorelines healthy going forward.

Erosion can be a big problem for shorelines. For those who had trees that were ripped up along the shoreline, Sheehan said to cut the tree and push the exposed root wad back into place to hold earth in place.

“I would also recommend either putting some seed or planting (native grass or sedges or shrubs and some annual rye grass) to get something to grow fast and limit soil erosion … and planting trees or fencing out deer to get new trees established for future shoreline protection,” she said.

In other areas that are “no cut zones,” she again urges people to cut the tree off and push the root ball back into place before cutting the stump down flush to the ground.

“You don’t have to replant trees, but restoring native trees and shrubs will do nothing but good — especially if you are on a slope,” Sheehan said. “You can also leave as much tree material on the ground for wildlife habitat if you wish. If a tree is damaged but standing and doesn’t pose a threat to life or property, you can also leave it up to become a wildlife snag for cavity nesting birds, etc.”

For trees that are still alive but homeowners want to leave it in the water for fish habitat along the shore, Sheehan recommends visiting the DNR’s storm debris cleanup on waterways webpage for more information on tree drop permits. It can be accessed online at dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/waterways/stormdebriscleanup.html.

Lastly, Sheehan urges homeowners to take photos of the tree damage before they begin cutting, but after initial cleanup has occurred. These photos can come in handy in case there are disputes with neighbors or questions later on in the project.

For other inquiries or guidance, contact Sheehan at 715-479-3721 or mashee@vilascountywi.gov.