How can we regulate the shoreline erosion of Lake Michigan to prevent damage to communities and wildlife?
Background Information:
Shoreline erosion along the Lake Michigan coast is a costly issue that impacts infrastructure maintenance and poses environmental risks. Neglecting regulations could lead to further damage, such as improper shoreline materials in the water and habitat loss. To make a positive impact, communities can implement green infrastructure and work with legislators to understand regulations. As our understanding of the issue evolves, we must adapt our approaches to better protect the shoreline and surrounding ecosystem.
Current Status:
The current status of Lake Michigan shoreline erosion remains a pressing issue, with ongoing concerns over the impact on infrastructure and the environment. Key players involved in addressing this issue include local communities, environmental groups, government agencies such as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and regulatory bodies. Perspectives vary among these groups, with some advocating for strict regulations to protect the shoreline and prevent further erosion, while others prioritize economic considerations and property rights.
Recent Events:
Recent events include the signing of the Coastal Code by relevant politicians, which aims to provide DNR with the authority to require engineering and modeling for shoreline projects that may have significant environmental impacts. Efforts like the Door County Strategic Analysis and Waterways Program have been made to prevent further damages and update regulations. There have also been court rulings on shoreline erosion control projects, highlighting the need for adherence to regulations and sustainable practices. Ongoing discussions and debates among stakeholders continue, with many waiting for the implementation of the Coastal Code and its potential impact on future shoreline erosion control projects.
Solutions:
The best solution to the Lake Michigan shoreline erosion is the implementation of natural or nature-based solutions such as dune restoration, beach nourishment, and the use of native vegetation to stabilize the shoreline. Studies have shown that these natural solutions not only effectively address shoreline erosion but also provide multiple benefits to the surrounding ecosystem. Dune restoration can help absorb wave energy and prevent further erosion, while beach nourishment can also enhance recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat. Additionally, the use of native vegetation can improve water quality and overall ecosystem health. By utilizing natural solutions, we can mitigate the negative impacts of shoreline erosion while also promoting environmental sustainability and resilience.
References
Illinois Beach State Park. “State tackling harmful Lake Michigan shoreline erosion at Illinois Beach State Park.” Illinois.gov, 12 January 2023, https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.25902.html. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Koran, Mario. “As Lake Michigan shoreline vanishes, Wisconsinites fight waves with walls. (Spoiler: The waves will win.).” Wisconsin Public Radio, 7 November 2021, https://www.wpr.org/environment/lake-michigan-shoreline-vanishes-wisconsinites-fight-waves-walls-spoiler-waves-will-win. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. “Great Lakes Shoreline Erosion.” State of Michigan, https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/egle/Documents/Programs/WRD/Shoreland/HREA-Brochure.pdf?rev=a13c29e5b1ad4e8e8dfc830895ac554b. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Szabo, Sarah. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/. Accessed 4 April 2024.
White Lake Dock & Dredge, Inc. “How to Prevent Shoreline Erosion Along Lake Michigan.” White Lake Dock & Dredge, https://wlddi.com/how-to-prevent-shoreline-erosion/. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Shoreline erosion along the Lake Michigan coast is a costly issue that impacts infrastructure maintenance and poses environmental risks. Neglecting regulations could lead to further damage, such as improper shoreline materials in the water and habitat loss. To make a positive impact, communities can implement green infrastructure and work with legislators to understand regulations. As our understanding of the issue evolves, we must adapt our approaches to better protect the shoreline and surrounding ecosystem.
Current Status:
The current status of Lake Michigan shoreline erosion remains a pressing issue, with ongoing concerns over the impact on infrastructure and the environment. Key players involved in addressing this issue include local communities, environmental groups, government agencies such as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and regulatory bodies. Perspectives vary among these groups, with some advocating for strict regulations to protect the shoreline and prevent further erosion, while others prioritize economic considerations and property rights.
Recent Events:
Recent events include the signing of the Coastal Code by relevant politicians, which aims to provide DNR with the authority to require engineering and modeling for shoreline projects that may have significant environmental impacts. Efforts like the Door County Strategic Analysis and Waterways Program have been made to prevent further damages and update regulations. There have also been court rulings on shoreline erosion control projects, highlighting the need for adherence to regulations and sustainable practices. Ongoing discussions and debates among stakeholders continue, with many waiting for the implementation of the Coastal Code and its potential impact on future shoreline erosion control projects.
Solutions:
The best solution to the Lake Michigan shoreline erosion is the implementation of natural or nature-based solutions such as dune restoration, beach nourishment, and the use of native vegetation to stabilize the shoreline. Studies have shown that these natural solutions not only effectively address shoreline erosion but also provide multiple benefits to the surrounding ecosystem. Dune restoration can help absorb wave energy and prevent further erosion, while beach nourishment can also enhance recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat. Additionally, the use of native vegetation can improve water quality and overall ecosystem health. By utilizing natural solutions, we can mitigate the negative impacts of shoreline erosion while also promoting environmental sustainability and resilience.
References
Illinois Beach State Park. “State tackling harmful Lake Michigan shoreline erosion at Illinois Beach State Park.” Illinois.gov, 12 January 2023, https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.25902.html. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Koran, Mario. “As Lake Michigan shoreline vanishes, Wisconsinites fight waves with walls. (Spoiler: The waves will win.).” Wisconsin Public Radio, 7 November 2021, https://www.wpr.org/environment/lake-michigan-shoreline-vanishes-wisconsinites-fight-waves-walls-spoiler-waves-will-win. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. “Great Lakes Shoreline Erosion.” State of Michigan, https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/egle/Documents/Programs/WRD/Shoreland/HREA-Brochure.pdf?rev=a13c29e5b1ad4e8e8dfc830895ac554b. Accessed 4 April 2024.
Szabo, Sarah. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/. Accessed 4 April 2024.
White Lake Dock & Dredge, Inc. “How to Prevent Shoreline Erosion Along Lake Michigan.” White Lake Dock & Dredge, https://wlddi.com/how-to-prevent-shoreline-erosion/. Accessed 4 April 2024.