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Shoreland Best Management Practices

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Lake Wise
Vermont Lakeshore Management

Lake Wise practices apply to the land surrounding a lake that is within 250 feet of the lake's mean water level.

Managing Vermont lakeshores according to consistent practices will maintain property values, good water quality, good aquatic habitat, good fishing, swimming, boating, bird-watching and more favorite activities around and benefits of Vermont lakes. Using Best Management Practices ensures lakeshore conditions are met.

Living Shoreland

Beaches and Recreation Areas
Bioengineering
Conserve and Protect Lakeshores
Lakeshore Buffers
Lake-Friendly Yard Maintenance
Live Stakes and Fascines
Low Impact Lakeshore Development
Managing Invasive Plants
Restore Natural Plant Communities

Low Impact Lake Access

Infiltration Steps
Driveways and Lake Roads
Planning Pathways
Turn-outs & Rock Aprons
Water Bars & Open-Top Culverts

Upland Stormwater Management

Check Dams
Dry Wells
Filter Berms
Infiltration Trenches
Permeable Pavers
Rain Gardens
Downspout Disconnection & Rain Barrels
Vegetated Swales

Fact Sheets

Lake Wise Native Plant List
Forming a Lake Association
Homeowners Guide to Onsite Wastewater Systems
Guide to Failed Wastewater Systems
Municipal Roads General Permit (MRGP) Guidelines for Lake Roads
Ticks and Shorelands

Lawns vs Natural Shoreland

Living Shorelands