Start the Survey
Seawalls
A seawall installed after December 31st 2018 will negatively affect your score such that a Shoreland Steward certificate will not be generated.
The Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership promotes alternative bio-engineered techniques for erosion control instead of seawalls. (Problems with seawalls) Preventing seawalls is important; however, it is recognized there are many current seawalls that may not be practical to be removed/replaced with better options for the lake. If a seawall was installed prior to the above date, there are management practices that can help improve your score. Please see the list of Certified Natural Shoreline Professionals for assistance.
If you would like more details about the survey before getting started, please see the Shoreland Program Guide.
The MI Shoreland Stewards Survey asks questions related to management practices in each of the four zones of your shoreland property: Upland, Buffer, Shoreline and Lake. It should take approximately 30 minutes. Below each question will be more information to help you in answering the questions or how you could potentially improve your management practices.
What is your level?
Three different levels can be achieved: Gold, Silver and Bronze.
Each property is different and some will qualify right away. Other properties may not qualify until some management practices are improved while still others may not be able to qualify at all.
Why should I register?
Registered Participants will be provided:
- A personalized printable certificate for qualifying properties for Gold, Silver and Bronze Levels.
- Advice if there are areas that can be improved.
- An option to print your answer summary.
- An option to purchase a sign to be placed along the lake shore.
- The ability to upload pictures to show how your property is a "Shoreland Steward" (They can't be seen by the public)
Lake Associations
Please see the "Lake Association" Page for more information on how your lake association can be registered on this site. This option offers you the ability to connect with property owners and access to information to help you promote the program.