Free Plants Available for Spring 2010 Planting

Are you interested in helping improve water quality and enhancing fish and wildlife habitat along lakes and rivers? The Severn Sound Environmental Association has a variety of native shrubs available to North Simcoe landowners interested in shoreline naturalization. Plants will be provided to shoreline residents free of charge while supplies last. For more information contact Michelle Hudolin at 527-5166 ext 202.

• 90% of aquatic life originates from the shallow water and first 15 metres of land adjacent to lakes and rivers

• This zone, the "Ribbon of Life", is essential to the survival of many species that depend on both land and water

• Shoreline vegetation improves water quality by trapping runoff, sediment, contaminants and excess nutrients before they enter the lake

• Native plants anchor the soil and protect the shoreline by reducing erosion from wind, waves and ice

• A natural shoreline provides valuable habitat for plants and wildlife by supporting spawning and nursery areas for fish, and providing corridors for wildlife movement

• Native plants are adapted to their environment and require limited fertilizer, pesticides and watering, saving time and money, and preventing chemicals from entering waterways

• Natural vegetation can deter nuisance geese, since they prefer to congregate on short grass lawns adjacent to lakes

• Aquatic and semi-aquatic plants provide habitat for a variety of beneficial wildlife, including frogs, dragonflies and insect-eating birds that are a natural control for biting insects like blackflies and mosquitoes

In the course of shoreline development, native vegetation is often replaced with non-native species or removed altogether. Wildlife habitat is lost, nutrient enrichment and nuisance algae growth usually result, and there can be increased erosion of the shoreline by waves and ice. There is a decrease in water quality, and the natural beauty and character of the lakeshore is altered.

The Natural Shorelines Project is an initiative to provide advice and assistance to landowners interested in protecting, enhancing or restoring a natural shoreline. Staff offer tips on environmentally sound practices for shoreline properties, provide shoreline landowners with advice on shoreline restoration and assist in obtaining native trees, shrubs, vines and wildflowers appropriate for a natural shoreline.

Copyright © 2010 Severn Sound Environmental Association
Last modified: March 08, 2010

Send mail to sseacommunications@town.midland.on.ca  with questions or comments about this web site.