Lake&Home Magazine May/Jun '17

Lighting Up in Style • Faux Foliage • Inside the Walls • Water Features S u b s c r i b e t o p r i n t o r d i g i t a l b y v i s i t i n g w w w.l a ke a n d h o m e m a g o n l i n e.c o m

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First NatioNal BaNk, We’ll get you there At First National Bank you can count on a local process for the quick answers you deserve. Stop in to see one of our lake-country bankers, or apply online at fnbhenning.com.

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CONTENTS

62 VOLUME 19 • ISSUE 3 • MAY / JUNE 2017 LakeAndHomeMagOnline.com

8 From the Office

by Erin Hintz

Lake Gifts 44 Gifts for the Lake Lover

Landscaping 10 Reimagine Your Yard with

Designer Portfolio 46 Refreshing Designs

Water Features

by Alicia Underlee Nelson

Interior Design 18 Not a Gardenista? Faux Foliage Might be the Answer

by Merrie Sue Holtan

Landscaping 26 Lighting Up in Style

by Patrice Peterson

Home Experts 34 Your Questions Answered by

FEATURED HOME

by Moriya Rufer

Featured Lake 86 Star Lake

by Reba Gilliand

FEATURED HOME

A Fine Line 62 Small Details and Clean Lines make Contemporary Home Stand Out

by Erin Froslie

Remodeling 72 What Lurks Inside the Walls

38 On the Lake

When Looking for a Change of Space

Score Your Shore – Maximize Fish, Wildlife and Water Quality

a Healthy Habitat?

52 Cape Cod

Cottage

Our Panel of Experts

On the Lake 78 Does Your Shoreline Promote

by Dave Pedersen

by Lindy Ekola Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Cover photo by Scott Amundson Photography See story on page 52

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LAKE AND HOME MAGAZINE MAY / JUNE 2017

Volume 19, Issue 3 • MAY / JUNE 2017 PUBLISHER Kip Johnson EDITOR Brent Rogness CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kip Johnson ADVERTISING/MARKETING CONSULTANT John Burns LAKE AND HOME MAGAZINE – ADVERTISING SALES Erin Hintz • 218-205-2120 erin@lakeandhomemagazine.com Jerry Shea • 218-205-7454 jerry@lakeandhomemagazine.com Trista Larson • 218-731-0255 trista@lakeandhomemagazine.com Kristina Flatgard • 218-731-3067 kristina@lakeandhomemagazine.com

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LAKE AND HOME MAGAZINE Published bimonthly by Compass Media PO Box 9761, Fargo, ND 58106 (218) 205-2706 lakeandhomemagonline­­.com artwork@lakeandhomemagazine.com Unless previously agreed, all rights remain the sole property of Lake and Home Magazine. ©2016 Compass Media Except for purposes of review, material contained herein may not be reproduced without prior written consent.

Printed by LSC Communications, Long Prairie, MN, USA

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FROM THE OFFICE

S

From the Office

pring has finally sprung! We all emerge from our houses like moles who have spent the winter in hibernation, blink a few times at the bright sun, and start to live again.

As I write this column, from my sunroom where I can finally open windows, the trees are beginning to bud, the yard is showing signs of turning green, and irises are poking out of the landscaping. Our neighborhood has come alive with kids playing, families on walks and neighbors visiting in the front lawns as they begin spring yard work. In the evenings the breeze comes alive with the smell of grills and campfires.

And then there’s me. In all my glory, covered from head to toe in dirt, starting gardens and moving plants in my flower beds from here to there. Every spring I suddenly need to reinvent my landscaping. I’m not just talking about a few new plants. Every plant I own finds itself in a new patch of dirt for the season.

Even the trees I’ve planted aren’t safe. My grandma shakes her head. She loves to tell anyone who will listen about how much

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I took after her, but she’ll adamantly say “you didn’t get that from me!” My husband is a good sport, even helping out with the trees and shrubs that I have no business moving. My dad and brother are recruited to pull trailers full of mulch into the yard. My mom laughs and says I should just put all my plants on wheels.

articles, you’ll have planting, lighting, and even water feature ideas to dream about all spring and summer long.

She can’t talk. There’s no question who passed down the gardening gene. She spent the first day of April moving her lilies that hadn’t even poked out of the ground yet and planning her vegetable garden.

My dad calls her apple trees “hundred year apples” because he claims it will take them 100 years to start producing apples since they’re moved so frequently. When I was younger I shook my head and rolled my eyes when she told me someday I would love it too. “The only landscaping I’ll have is boulders and dandelions,” I would tell her. Well mom, you were right.

And as always, in this issue, you’ll find two beautiful feature homes that are sure to get your imagination going for your own home.

If you’re anything like me (I’m sorry), this issue of Lake and Home Magazine is right up your alley. With several landscaping

Advertising Sales

LAKE AND HOME MAGAZINE MAY / JUNE 2017

If you’re taking on bigger remodel projects this season, be sure to check out the Inside the Walls: Problems you Might Find article to be prepared before demo begins.

In the midst of all of my gardening and landscaping projects, my husband frequently has to remind me to stop and enjoy a few days on the lake. Be sure to do so yourself. Lake and Home Magazine always pairs well with a lakeside hammock and a cocktail.

Erin Hintz

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L LANDSCAPING .

Adding a water feature to your outdoor living space can transform any yard into a soothing oasis.

And it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Here are six ways to update your outdoor space using the latest trends in water feature design.

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Add interest to a small yard with a pondless waterfall “A pondless waterfall would be perfect for a small yard because there’s no pond,” says Troy Hallan, landscape designer at Natures Garden World in Fergus Falls.

“The majority of the pond is buried underground and you don’t see it. The waterfall falls into rock and that’s all you see.”

Choose a soothing outdoor spot to maximize relaxation and add ambiance to your everyday routine. “You could do a bubbling rock or a bubbling vase, maybe at your entry point or at a spot where you like to drink coffee,” suggests Wes Pare, the owner of Lakes Area Landscaping in Pelican Rapids. Using a water feature to honor and elevate ordinary moments can improve your peace of mind as well as adding beauty to your yard.

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Divide a larger yard into zones

Go modern

A larger yard can incorporate a pondless waterfall and additional design features.

Designate one zone for the waterfall, one for an outdoor entertaining area and one for play. Then create cohesion among the zones by placing plants and flowers in beds, planters and on the surface of the water.

“The trends I see right now are real modern designs -- very straight, almost rectangle-style ponds and fountains made of metal,” says Hallan. “They don’t all have to look natural.” Fountains made of metal and geometric shapes offer a striking counterpoint to the organic shapes and materials in landscape design and appeal to those with a pared down sensibility. Water features with clean lines compliment contemporary architecture and the glint of metal adds a sculptural feeling to a fountain that really appeals to modern art lovers.

Don’t be afraid to repurpose familiar landscape design elements by adding water.

Pare recommends reimagining retaining walls as water features. The retaining wall will echo the rest of your landscaping, but adds the soothing sight, sound and smell of water to your outdoor experience.

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For those wanting to accent a contemporary home with a modern water feature that’s made of a natural material, Pare recommends basalt, a dark and dramatic volcanic rock. His company has made columns into a water feature for a striking effect.

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Create a mini habitat If you have the space, it can be fun to think big. “You see a lot of ponds with koi fish, little streams, creeks and waterfalls,” says Pare. “But you really need some acreage.”

The eye-catching koi fish can even weather a tough Midwestern winter outdoors with the help of a small tank heater and a hole in the ice to aid water recirculation. “They kind of go dormant once the water is 50 degrees,” explains Hallan, who has a koi pond at his home. They start swimming again once the weather warms.

If fish aren’t your thing, consider making your pond a habitat for humans. The addition of a few water plants to shade and cool the water will minimize algae and mimic the natural ecosystem, creating a swimming hole that kids and teens (and kids at heart) will love.

And don’t let the maintenance worry you.

“Most people want it small, because they think the maintenance will be an issue,” Hallan says. “They think something small will be easier to maintain. But the pH of the water changes really quickly in something small. Even a sunny day can make the water temperature get warm and the water can get slimy. In something larger, the water will neutralize itself.”

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Try repurposed rustic If stark and sleek design isn’t for you, that’s not a problem. The rustic look never goes out of style. It just gets reimagined and reinterpreted.

Upcycling – reusing and repurposing existing (and often vintage) materials -- remains a trend, says Hallan. He’s seen everything from “upcycling an old whiskey barrel or washtub into a little water feature that sits on your patio” to converting barrels and watering cans into self-contained fountains.

Save money with a self-contained fountain If you’re on a budget, you can save big and score major relaxation points with a small, self-contained fountain. These elements are portable and work equally well on porches, patios and in the yard. They may be smaller fountains, but they still generate a serene, soothing presence.

“Just the sound of trickling water will really drown out the sound of vehicles or neighbors,” says Hallan. “It doesn’t have to be big to get that sound of running water.”

The simple addition of one small water feature can help the stress of daily life fade into the background, offering a new way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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If you are going to “go faux,” you might as well pick from top-shelf materials, and succulents rank high on the list. Refreshing Designs in Perham, Minn., has customers driving for miles around to buy quality faux foliage.

“All our plants are handpicked,” says RD designer, Bailee Schissel. “We examine every one. Each item is botanically correct, where they grow the real plants and then mimic and hand paint them.”

“The color green is life giving and makes you feel good,” says RD designer Leann Feldt. “Ferns, sage, herbs such as mint, and boxwood make great fillers. Using real dirt or sand and rocks for succulents make them look natural.”

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The designers suggest examining the variety, shape, color and texture relative to the vessels they are in. Mixing sizes and shapes and how they are displayed give a realistic look.

Other tips include: Look for life-like trunks or stems, imperfect leaves and a beautiful pot. Mix and match real plants with faux and try using faux outside in mild climates.

Greenery provides the opportunity to bring the outside inside and create a bit of life in every room says RD designer Leann. Faux foliage can inspire your living or working space, adding harmony to your life.

Faux History In the Old Testament, the Queen of Sheba supposedly tested the wisdom of Solomon by asking him to identify the fresh flowers from the fake. In the 18th century, Marie Antoinette had her own florist on hand to craft elaborate floral accessories. By the 19th century, London had troops of flower girls who sold silk creations in music halls.

Today, most artificial foliage is imported from Asian countries.

When the art form began, faux plants and flowers made from silky fabric, were expensive and not realistic looking. Today

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the manufacturing process allows them to more closely replicate the authentic live plant, tree or flower down to the finest detail. They are especially popular used in combination with live plants in interiorscapes and landscapes.

Faux Benefits Besides providing a relaxed atmosphere and a warm and inviting space, artificial plants remain pest free. Leaves and soil provide the food to support these pests. No food supply equals no pests.

They let nature in without really having to do so. Artificial foliage can be used as attractive walls or panels, providing

privacy and noise insulation. Since they are UV protected, they do not fade.

Typically, artificial plants are unattractive to pets and will not be poisonous for them. Safe from allergies, they are quick and easy to install, weather resistant and maintenance free, with no need to provide plant sitters when on vacation.

Environmentally, they also save on water.

The plants are easy to clean with a quick dusting every other week and an occasional soak in a solution of bleach and water followed by rinsing and air drying.

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Like what you see?

Find a full assortment of faux flowers and plants, including the arrangements shown in this article, at Refreshing Designs in downtown Perham, Minn.

Faux Interior & Exterior If you have an exterior wall space or a large main door, utilize a hanging plant or floral window box, such as ivy. Your house will instantly provide an excellent welcome for guests.

In the dining room, try a table centerpiece combining different colors. If space allows, choose a large plant such as a palm, one of the most popular artificial foliage choices. The bathroom provides a place to give a touch of serenity with a bonsai or African violet for a corner space or a large dark green foliage if space is available.

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Since the kitchen may be more humid with variations in temperature, it is perfect for artificial plants. Place a plant above or along the cabinets to give life to the environment but save space. A favorite spot for the bedroom plant is the nightstand since it attracts attention when entering the room.

Trees, plants and topiaries have become a hot new item in the faux outdoor foliage industry. In some situations it may be impossible to keep real outdoor plants alive. The most popular outdoor plants include artificial boxwoods and podocarpus bushes. Flowering artificial bougainvillea, geranium or gardenia bushes can add the final accent for a

patio or pool design. Outdoor palms have long been a favorite to create a tropical look around pools. Now ficus, Ming aralia and conifers in cedar and cypress (Arborvitae) are also available.

Are you looking to hide a fence? Creating a living wall or building an outdoor hedge are suitable strategies. Outdoor boxwood and ivy mats are a perfect solution, along with ferns, as a great accent in a planter.

Outdoor topiaries add a creative touch to landscaping. They can be anywhere from 3 to 7 feet tall and come in shapes such as spiral, cone, and ball topiary. Varieties include boxwood, podocarpus, cedar and juniper.

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Most outdoor artificial plants, trees and topiaries can be purchased either potted or unpotted. A decorative planter will provide an accent around the pool, patio or front entrance. To keep the plants looking great, professionals recommend regular washing to help keep out oils, dirt and residue from building up on them, causing them to degrade faster. Normal rainfall usually does the trick or simply hose them down on a regular basis.

Seek assistance from designers at Refreshing Designs and begin experimenting with a couple of faux plants or flowers. Pay attention to the impact on your decor. You might be surprised. ~L&H

L LANDSCAPING

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by Patrice Peterson

Warm evenings around the fire pit. Star gazing from the dock. Breezy nights near the lake. Embracing summer often includes the pleasure of outdoor nighttime activities.

As an increasing number of home and lakeshore owners follow the national trend of expanding and transforming their landscaping and outdoor living spaces, they are also seeking new and innovative ways to keep them lit up after dark.

A well thought-out and successful landscape plan can help create those desired spaces on almost any property. Adding the perfect mix of lighting to the plans can further enhance your satisfaction of the outdoors experience. Landscape plans can be incomplete until you’ve added lighting.

It’s more than functionality. It’s more than safety. It’s even more than beauty. The right kind of lighting can be functional, safe and attractive, but can also set a “mood” by turning a comfortable outdoor space into a stunning display of design and color.

“Sometimes it’s easy to ignore the lighting aspect when developing an outdoor area, but lighting is a significant element in a successful landscape design,” says Peter Boyle, founder of Boyle Landscape Architects in Fargo. “Even minor additions or changes in outdoor lighting can make a huge impact.”

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New Uses for Standard Technology One minor change Boyle mentioned came to him after many nights of being “blinded” by porch lights turned on following a fun evening of roasting marshmallows by the campfire. He now regularly suggests that customers add dimmer switches to control the brightness of porch lights. “When you want them to be blinding, you can,” he explains. “But when expecting guests or sending them home, you can dial it down. It’s a new outdoor usage for technology that’s been around for years.”

Light Years Ahead Whether simple or complex, it’s important to figure out what kind of difference outdoor lighting can make and what kind of impact it can provide to the atmosphere of your outdoor living spaces. “We’ve come a long way from Pagoda lights,” Peter adds.

Solid advancements in LED technology and computerized smart-house systems make the future of lighting look even brighter for design versatility in outdoor living.

Lighting Fixtures by The Lighting Division

Photo courtesy of Boyle Landscape Architects

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Trendsetting Light Bulbs One reason that landscape lighting has become so trendy is the popularity of LEDs (light-emitting diodes that produce light from electricity). Compared to incandescent light bulbs, LEDs last a long time, do not break easily, and are ecologically friendly since most of the energy creates light, not heat. Although the upfront expense can be higher, they are a good fit for outdoor applications because of their high efficiency, longer lifespan, and lower maintenance. Their reliability has continued to improve over the years, and they are now available in a broad array of colors, shapes and sizes that can fit into any landscape lighting plan. It’s easy to see why LEDs are “all the rage” as outdoor areas are enhanced and illuminated.

“Sometimes it’s easy to ignore the lighting aspect when developing an outdoor area, but lighting is a significant element in a successful landscape design.

Even minor additions or changes in outdoor lighting can make a huge impact.”

Peter Boyle, Boyle Landscape Architects, Fargo

Lighting Fixtures by The Lighting Division

Smart Technologies LEDs also fit easily into the growing trend of computerized and programmable “smart house” technologies, or “intelligent” lighting systems. We are only beginning to see the direction and potential of these systems as more options become available and they are fully integrated to the point that the controls are hardly seen. All the lights still need to be wired, but with a transformer connection, there’s a module that communicates with a smartphone or tablet through an app. They can be programmed for both the inside of the house, along with the landscaping, and homeowners can control everything with the touch of a button. Even better news: It’s now possible for programmable remote systems to be added to existing systems.

Lighting Fixtures by The Lighting Division

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Additional Tips

• Be community friendly. Think about CROSSLIGHTING the intensity and direction of your Lit by dueling fixtures from different lighting. Don’t blind passersby, angles to increase emphasis. neighbors or visitors.

Photo courtesy of Boyle Landscape Architects

MOONLIGHTING

• In addition to underlighting, try mixing it up and keeping it interesting with:

A toned down, natural lighting style that simulates moonlight.

• For safety and security, also consider creative lighting for: Lit from ground level and pointed • Stairways upward to create a particular focus. • Walkways • Plant Beds DOWNLIGHTING • Around the edge of a patio Lit from above and aimed • Directional lights placed in downward to highlight an area. mature trees to shine on traffic areas

UPLIGHTING

BACKLIGHTING

Lit from behind to create mystery and mood.

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Lighting Fixtures by The Lighting Division

Lighting from Down Under Take underlighting to new places. Think under-cabinet lighting, but think about taking it to the outdoors: - Under the deck - Under deck benches - Under deck steps Or you could integrate it into an outdoor kitchen, where a fully developed lighting design should always be considered, but is often overlooked. (It’s not good to wait until you go to cook some dark night and realize there isn’t enough light.)

Add Drama on the Water From a purely functional standpoint, a well-lit dock and boat lift area is important for coming and going on watercraft at night. By truly illuminating that area with LED lights, you can extend your sense of space out to the water all night long.

Some great ideas to dramatize a shoreline area include: - Installing high-powered LEDs underneath the entire length of the dock - Placing colored LED lights inside the boat cover - Creating a water wonderland with colored, submergible lights

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Lighting in Style A functional light at the front door? A spotlight at the end of the dock? Outdoor lighting covers a broad range of options, but whatever lighting needs you are currently contemplating, be sure to consider the value it can add to your outdoor areas.

Landscape lighting is a trend in itself as more homeowners see the way it can impact their homes, their landscaping, and their lifestyle. ~L&H

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Your Questions

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Answered By Our Panel Of Experts

HOME EXPERTS

Question: What are a few design trends for 2017?

Answer: Betty Ravnik Ravnik & Co.

The trends for 2017 will be evident in many aspects of the home. It has to do with finishes, colors, and materials. This year we will move away from the all-white interiors, ship lap siding and rustic shelves and elements.

This does not mean we are going back to dark, heavily detailed elements or bright and shiny interiors. The trend is still casual but with sophistication and personality.

We will see warmer metals, ultra matte finishes, and mixing of colors. Cozy is the focus of 2017. Starting with metals we are going to see more relaxed, warmer tones. Don’t be afraid of brass because it isn’t bright and

OTTER TAIL COUNTY, MINNESOTA

shiny but rather warm and inviting. Metals can be mixed with hardware, lighting and plumbing.

High gloss finishes in countertops, cabinetry and even metals are being replaced with softer surfaces. More satin stone finishes, wood counters, and matte sheen on cabinetry is creating a non-fussy interior that is reflective of our casual lives.

Kitchen cabinets and millwork will return to warm woods and softer paint colors for a calming environment; however color mixing is still trending strong in 2017. Two stained OTTER TAIL COUNTY, MINNESOTA

“My clients who have worked with American Federal for their construction loans have appreciated the welcoming environment and professional advice provided by Chris Marvel. The entire staff at American Federal is committed to making the financing process stress free.”

- Dave Erwin, Dave Erwin Construction, Inc.

117 South Mill Street Fergus Falls, MN 56537 218.739.3377 888.389.3377 34 LAKE AND HOME MAGAZINE MAY / JUNE 2017

DOUGLAS COUNTY, MINNESOTA

woods, or two colors of painted cabinets or mixing wood and paint. Another trend in warming up the kitchen is called kitchen living. The living room is moving into the kitchen which extends our interpretation of casual living.

Mixing colors, textures and patterns is coming into vogue replacing the all-white and grey interior. Very high in demand are wallcoverings. Yes, they are back! The reason is paint does not offer a mixture of color, texture and pattern like a wall covering can achieve. In the scheme of things, wall covering is very inexpensive. It fills wall space with interest and it beats replacing cabinetry, flooring and furniture to create a memorable interior. Wallpaper is very personality driven and can create a one of a kind interior.

Artwork is large and light fixtures are still trending large. Do more with less. Think impact versus quantity.

Lastly, we are truly moving away from grey to a warmer palette.

It doesn’t mean grey is disappearing it is just getting warmer. We want our interiors to comfort us and that will continue throughout the year. We want a cozy environment to call home. Enjoy the road back to warm and inviting! ~L&H

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OTTER TAIL COUNTY, MINNESOTA

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HOME EXPERTS

Your Questions

Answered By Our Panel Of Experts

Question:

Answer:

Attorney Daniel Carlisle Pemberton Law Ottertail Office

As a lifelong lake resident, I understand and share the passion that comes with the cabin.

Some of our fondest memories in life are created at the lake with our loved ones. Not surprisingly, in my estate planning practice, the topic of “keeping the cabin in the family” is one of the most important discussion points with my clients. They routinely wrestle with the question of, “What will happen to the family cabin when they die?”

This common question illustrates one of the reasons why it is important to plan ahead and

OTTER TAIL, DOUGLAS, BECKER & WADENA COUNTIES, MINNESOTA

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Keeping the Cabin in the Family Why is estate planning so important? establish a solid estate plan for yourself. Each client has unique and personal characteristics that influence their thoughts regarding what should happen to their estate assets, including their lake cabin, upon their death. By evaluating these characteristics, it may be possible to design a plan that leaves the family cabin to some or all of your children after death; to provide a sum of money to assist with maintenance and repair of the cabin; to hold one or more interests in a trust for the benefit of minor or incompetent children; to utilize

estate planning tools to get the cabin and other assets to pass to your children without the time and expense involved in a probate proceeding; and to help reduce or eliminate estate tax exposure. These are a few of the more common benefits I see to preparing a well thought out estate plan. If you are unsure of your options or wish to learn more about the estate planning process, I would encourage you to contact an estate planning professional to answer questions and guide you through the process. ~L&H

OTTER TAIL COUNTY, MINNESOTA

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ON THE LAKE

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Deep-rooted perennial plants provide bank stabilization, critical habitat and water quality protection to shoreline buffer zones.

A lake home or cabin can be a great place to connect to the natural world.

Watching birds in the winter, listening to loon calls and wails, or enjoying cool lake breezes on hot sticky summer days–what could be more welcome?

In Minnesota, we are fortunate to have many opportunities to enjoy nature close to home, especially if you live on a lake and know how to support wildlife habitat and the natural environment on your lakeshore property.

How is your shore doing?

One way to learn more about practices that create fish and wildlife-friendly habitats near lake and shoreline environments, while also protecting water quality, is to do an assessment using a standardized tool

called “Score Your Shore.” This is a system developed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Ecological and Water Resources Division.

Score Your Shore is an online assessment guide (mndnr.state.mn.us/scoreyourshore) designed for lakeshore owners, lake associations and other organizations to assess the natural assets and habitat along lakeshores. It also identifies stewardship practices that improve shoreline buffers, fish and wildlife habitat and water quality protection.

Lakeshore can be divided into three distinct zones: aquatic, shoreline and upland zones. Each of these areas is assessed taking into consideration its own intrinsic features to determine a habitat score.

Lakeshore zones include the upland zone (red), shoreline zone (yellow) and aquatic zone (blue).

Each zone is scored based on the habitat features it contains.

By Lindy Ekola Fisheries Habitat Specialist Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Photos provided by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

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The aquatic zone begins at the land-water edge and includes the lake or river area immediately adjacent to the lakeshore and includes the shallow water where rooted aquatic plants grow.

The shoreline zone is the portion of the lakeshore zone between the upland and the water. It begins at the bank top and extends to the land-water interface. It may be only a few yards wide on some lots, but is described as the “glue” for the waterfront because it provides a natural barricade against erosion.

The upland zone includes most of the landowner’s lot, beginning at the top of the lake bank and extending landward to the primary structure (house or cabin).

Within each zone, specific features related to habitat are scored and summed for an overall Zone Habitat Score. Higher scores indicate a greater amount of habitat. This scoring process provides a simple method of ranking sites based on the percent of site that is in natural condition versus the percent of the site that has been altered.

Having an appropriate mix of diverse, native aquatic and terrestrial plant species is best for supporting fish and wildlife species on any lakeshore property. Pollinators, birds and all species of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife prefer often require native plants for cover and nesting habitat

“Protecting natural vegetation, or re-establishing it either directly or through natural succession, is critical for a functioning shoreline buffer. The vegetative goal for the shoreline buffer is mature native forest or other natural vegetation. A natural vegetated buffer generates important ecological and aesthetic functions.”

Taken from Score Your Shore: Citizen Shoreline Description Survey, January 2012, State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources, Division of Ecological and Water Resources, page 6.

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“A healthy lake shore consists of many natural elements (plants, soils, rocks, decaying trees and logs) that function together to form a unique ecosystem.

Shoreline alterations that damage or remove some of these components sever essential biological and physical connections between the upland and the water.”

Taken from Score Your Shore: Citizen Shoreline Description Survey, January 2012, State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources, Division of Ecological and Water Resources, page 6.

A restored buffer zone containing native plants.

and as sources of food. When non-native woody vegetation, grasses and flowering plants replace native vegetation, the resources that native fauna require are significantly reduced.

tion projects. This tool enables landowners and others to understand shoreland ecosystems and natural shoreland management while offering ways to resolve lakeshore problems.

As landscapes become more developed and support less of the essential elements needed to sustain healthy fish and wildlife and clean water, there are fewer opportunities for us to enjoy the natural world.

One focus of Restore Your Shore is using native vegetation to enhance and restore your shoreline. Native shoreline buffers provide critical habitat and water quality protection. Deep-rooted native perennial plants, including woody species, form a matrix both above and below ground. This improves water infiltration and captures nutrients, sediment and pollution that would otherwise flow into our lakes and streams.

Want to restore and protect your shoreline?

“Restore Your Shore” is another online tool (mndnr.state.mn.us/rys) developed by the Minnesota DNR to help people implement shoreland protection and restora-

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Native trees and shrubs are often found near water and they are an important natural asset for shoreland protection and stabilization. Trees and shrubs also provide other benefits, including shade, flowers for pollinators, food and shelter for birds and other wildlife. A standing dead (or dying) tree with cavities and irregularities supports many birds, and the larval insects found there are especially important when birds need high value food for their young.

For more information on native trees and other plants suitable for your area, check the Native Plant Encyclopedia available on the Restore Your Shore website. ~L&H

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DESIGNER PORTFOLIO

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Bailee Schissel, Leann Feldt, and Shayla Hunstad form a trifecta of talented designers at the newly remodeled Refreshing Designs on Main Street in Perham, Minn. The business, founded 10 years ago, has moved from two other smaller downtown storefronts and has tripled their space to 5,500 square feet of design, showroom and retail space. Aaron Karvonen owns the business as well as Karvonen’s, their sister store, and they have 20 staff members.

The business has attracted a variety of clients, ranging from young families to retirees and everyone in between. The company promises a “team” approach to home design, each contributing to the best design solution. Bailee Schissel attended NDSU for Interior Design and Business, Leann Feldt also attended NDSU for Interior Design, and Shayla Hunstad attended Alexandria Technical and Community College for Interior Design.

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“Where did you discover your passion for Design?”

Bailee: My parents are both very creative people and as a young girl I remember drawing floor plans and rearranging spaces.

It is so enjoyable to help our clients achieve beauty and function in their spaces. I enjoy design work itself as well as the business of designing. The talents I contribute to the team are the logistics, organization, and a willingness to push design boundaries.

Leann: I learned early from my dad, that making and creating is what I wanted to do. I’d see something in a magazine and try to make it. It is enjoyable to see people so excited about the results. We take pride in our work. Understanding color and how it is made, is a skill I use in every project.

Shayla: Interior design is something I have always known I wanted to do. From a young age, I can recall watching popular design shows. I truly enjoy everything about the design industry from computer drawings, to selecting product, and the final decorating stages.

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“What is your ‘Design Process?’”

Bailee: Because of our different styles and gifts, we bring our entire team to meet clients. It’s a “We over I” experience. We put our heads and personalities together because we are all problem solvers, no matter what challenge is presented. Great design is about understanding individual customer needs, and a style that serves both aesthetics and function.

Leann: We bring clients together with our team to our interactive design studio, where they can see product and material samples and ideas.

We have a conversation and note specific details about their lifestyles. Many bring in inspirations from magazines and Pinterest. We then analyze those ideas and create a presentation to intertwine our client’s ideas while making practical suggestions.

“How does Refreshing Designs Incorpor ate Trends?”

Bailee: On our retail side, when we travel to buyer’s markets from the East Coast to the West Coast, we hand pick each item. We consider its quality and try to bring in new trends that won’t be just a fad. We aim for unique and quality products which will last and at reasonable prices.

Leann: We see it all but especially in kitchen and bathroom remodels. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and people are willing to invest in the kitchen because it’s where the most time is spent. A small update, such as changing the kitchen island to a different shape, can make a big difference and is incredibly rewarding to see a client’s reaction with the end result.

Shayla: The design industry always has new trends coming and going. At RD, we appreciate the timeless looks while incorporating new and unique trends such as, mixed metals, florals, marble, and all shades of blues.

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“What is your design philosophy?”

Bailee: Our mission is to “Bring happiness through change.”

A change can be overwhelming for many. We guide our clients through the process efficiently and ensure a timely and professional process.

Leann: RD also believes in the importance of supporting the local community and doing business in town by using local contractors and suppliers. I am happy to “do what I love and love what I do.”

Shayla: I am proud that RD is all about both form and function.

We love creating spaces that are aesthetically beautiful but also make sense for the client and their lifestyle. ~L&H

by Reba Gilliand Photography by Scott Amundson Photography

L

ocated on the south side of one of Central Minnesota’s most popular lakes, this 5-bedroom, 6.5 bath custom-built home is as striking as it is functional. On the lake side, the full three stories of this walk-out home open up to a picturesque shoreline view.

Boulder retaining walls flank three large decks that offer plenty of room for family gatherings, entertaining and outdoor living. Viewed from the street or the lake,

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inside or out, the architectural features of this Cape Cod-style cottage make it one of a kind.

Family First For many families, lake homes become a can’t-miss central gathering area. In the case of this home designed by Chris Hawley of Chris Hawley Architects, that theme certainly rings true. Constructed as a 4,660-square foot home to

accommodate a large extended family, the year-round home serves as a gathering place during summers and holidays.

Radiant Homes of Fargo was commissioned to build the lakeside home. One of the company’s credos is to “build homes of unmatched quality and design.” The finished product was certainly on point.

David Reid, President of Radiant Homes, says, “Our team is integral to the success of projects such as this home.” David serves as project manager and works with superintendent Andy Strom and their crew of skilled craftsmen. The team did the framing, siding, decking, plywood flooring, and finish carpentry throughout the house.

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The main level has an open floor plan that offers easy access to the upper and lower levels, as well as the dining room, living room and kitchen. The flooring is one area where Radiant Homes pinpointed an opportunity to give this home a unique sense of character. The team created custom-made flooring by cutting sheets of three-quarter inch birch plywood into 4-foot by 4-foot squares. Next, they beveled the edges, installed the squares

with exposed fasteners and finished the floor in place.

as another opportunity to showcase the kind of work this company has become known for.

Space for Serving The kitchen, with its neutral palette and dramatic red accents, was designed by Michael Ste. Marie of Ste. Marie Design Group. This Saint Paul-based team focuses on “creating spaces that are mindful and unique.� Ste. Marie utilized this build

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White cabinets and white quartz countertops provide a subdued backdrop for the silver and white tile backsplash installed by Jacobson Tile and Stone of Detroit Lakes.

“It took some considerable work and planning in getting the mantel installed.

There is a lot of steel backing in the wall, and holes were drilled in the back of the mantel to slide over steel rods to hold it in place.�

David Reid Radiant Homes

The cabinets were built by Fargo-based Braaten Cabinets, as were all the cabinets throughout the house. With extended family gatherings a frequent occurrence, a large center island became a critical component of the kitchen plan. Made of wood butcher block, the island is perfect for casual meals, while the table nearby is well-suited for more formal dining.

Convening in Comfort When you think of cozy living rooms, it’s easy to picture a fireplace being the focal point. This home stays true to the standard definition of a comfortable gathering area, as a gas fireplace is one of the primary features. The surrounding stone, which contains shades of grey, is Chilton Country Manor. The solid limestone mantel is heavy, making the installation process a feat in itself.

“It took some considerable work and planning in getting the mantel installed,” Reid remembers. “There is a lot of steel backing in the wall, and holes were drilled in the back of the mantel to slide over steel rods to hold it in place.”

Perhaps the most striking feature of the main level is the ceiling. The curved railing used as part of a hallway upstairs also allows the dining room to be located under the vaulted ceiling. The curved railing is a trait of the home that adds a sense of drama upstairs and down.

Once again, with family gatherings taking high priority in the planning process of the home, a north-facing three-season porch provides another place for groups to congregate. It’s a section of the home that brings a refreshing cascade of light into the main-level living area. The barrel-

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vaulted ceiling is a striking architectural feature giving the space an open feel.

Windows have a track system of vinylglazed sashes installed over screened openings. During warm-weather months, these can be raised to let in fresh air. As the Mercury drops, they can be lowered to keep out the rain, snow, or wind.

The flooring of the porch was constructed with AZEK building products, known for providing a beautiful aesthetic with a low-maintenance, durable material.

AZEK is engineered to be a long-lasting alternative to traditional wood that has become increasingly popular with homeowners looking for a hassle-free deck or porch that maintains excellent visual appeal.

The lower level offers families separate areas for relaxing or entertaining guests.

Featuring a “flex” space, the lower level includes a section that can be used for a game room. As the house fills with overnight guests, it can also be lined with bunk beds to accommodate the growing numbers.

Once again, specialization in specific areas of the locker room help make this bathroom unique. A glance in this room will have you instantly drawn to the vanities, countertops and tile work. The vanities were purchased from Restoration Hardware. STC Flooring of Fargo installed the stunning tile. The beautiful countertops are made of Italian Carrara marble.

Practical, Yet Polished One of the most unique features on the lower level is a bathroom the family calls the “locker room.” This space features three vanities, two showers, and one toilet stall. Grandkids sleeping in nearby bunk beds have a handy bathroom that can be used by several kids at once, while maintaining privacy.

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This striking Cape Cod cottage in Central Minnesota fulfills the promise of both architect and builder. The home is one of innovative design and unmatched quality that meets the unique needs of a large extended family. ~L&H

F

Feature Home Contributors

FEATURE HOME CONTRIBUTOR

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S

ometimes it’s the simplest details that take the most thought and coordination. But for a lake home in northeastern South Dakota, that intentionality creates an effortlessly functional, yet beautiful destination for a growing extended family.

Details pop up in the most unexpected places, including an essential but often forgotten element of exterior design: the house number.

“When you don’t think about how it will work with the rest of the home, somebody will just put them up somewhere,” says Jackson Strom, project manager at Chris Hawley Architects.

But if you value function and design, you thoughtfully cut the house number out of the black metal that serves as a railing around a window well. You also conceal the window well ladder by mounting it to the backside of the metal barrier.

“So, the piece serves as a fall barrier, hides the ladder and displays the house number,” Strom says. “It serves a purpose, but it also becomes a fun detail.”

Strom designed the South Dakota lake home after receiving a call from the family. While boating around their lake one afternoon, they had fallen in love with a contemporary-styled home that he had designed.

“The homeowner’s (grown) son said if they ever built new, he wanted something like that one,” Strom says.

The family had enjoyed lake life for more than two decades. They had a small, onelevel home that held lots of memories: teaching kids how to do water sports, boating and hanging out together. They cherished close ties to their lake neighbors and appreciated watching each other’s families grow.

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But their children were grown and the family was expanding through marriages and the birth of grandchildren. The lake was still home for the empty-nester couple. But it also was a weekend getaway for one of their adult children’s families who lived nearby. Their other grown children enjoyed the lake as their summer vacation destination.

To accommodate the growing brood, the homeowners tore down the original home and started fresh. The result is a contemporary twostory home with a walk-out basement that boasts clean, simple lines and details that support an unpretentious welcome. It’s a place where the homeowners can comfortably live all summer long, yet easily accommodate additional visitors.

“We knew that the house would stay in the family and our kids love the contemporary style,” says the homeowner. “Now, I can’t imagine having designed it any differently.”

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“On every piece of the house we asked, ‘How can we best do this?’ We spent a lot of time making sure we did the best we could do.”

Jackson Strom, Chris Hawley Architects

The family had a fairly short list of requirements when they first met with Strom. They wanted three bedrooms in an upper level and a main-floor master suite with space to get away from the chaos of crowds. They also wanted a bunk room for guests and their growing group of grandchildren – preferably in a walk-out basement.

Beyond that, the plans and details were left in the hands of Chris Hawley Architects and the construction company, Quest Construction in Aberdeen, S.D. To assist the homeowner with envisioning the plans, Strom presented interior and exterior renderings and hand-drawn interior elevations to the client.

“They saw what our vision was and trusted us to execute it in a way that was best for them,” Strom says. “It made the project enjoyable and so much better for the client.”

Architectural Features To take full advantage of the lot’s natural beauty, Strom designed the floor plan on an axis, connecting the interior and exterior spaces in an orderly fashion. The kitchen effortlessly flows into the dining room and great room area, which leads to a screened porch and a stone patio where barbecuers have a full lake view while cooking dinner on the built-in grill or a pizza oven.

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Large, unobstructed windows maximize natural light and serve as a canvas for the outdoor view in nearly every room. Even when retreating to the master suite, which is tucked in the back of the home, the homeowners are lulled by the sights and sounds of a peaceful body of water.

To keep the exterior lines clean and simple, Strom broke the home into three modular sections. Each box is designated with its own siding: dark gray vertical metal, burnt orange Dryvit and gray lap siding. The limited color pallet and clean lines carry into the interior, which is filled with warm grays and bright whites.

The kitchen boasts custom-made white oak cabinets and wide-planked engineered white oak wood floors by Shaw. To keep natural light and views unobstructed, Strom eliminated upper cabinets. An island with a quartz top by

Cambria provides ample space for meal preparation and small-group meals. The countertop on the island features a larger, bigger pattern while countertops along the kitchen sides remain white quartz. “It was a way to be sensitive to the budget, but to also put the eye-catching details where they matter,� Strom says.

Two fridges and two dishwashers ease food storage and cleanup when the full family is gathered. A bar area at the back of the kitchen provides ample space for everything from an ice machine to a wine fridge to a coffee station hidden inside floor-to-ceiling cabinets.

To offer contrast and warmth to the space, Strom painted the bar cabinets a dark gray. He carried the color into the interior of the screened porch, matching the color of the exterior lap siding. Tongue-

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and-groove cedar ceilings were also chosen for the porch and the attached great room with a stone fireplace.

“It created a cozy feeling. A lot of these elements make the open, clean lines seem less sterile,” he says.

The master suite is tucked into the back of the home. But because the home is angled on the pie-shaped lot, even this back area has a wonderful view of the lake. A small den provides a place for the homeowners to find peace and quiet to read a book or watch television, even when there is a houseful of guests.

The master suite bathroom has a dual vanity and a large window above the tub that lets in south light but is placed high enough to provide full privacy without any window coverings. Strom utilized a horizontal drain in the walk-in tile shower.

He chose a shower tile similar to the floor, but one that had a bit more texture. The floor gently slopes to the far edge of the shower. Eliminating a center drain doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it provided a sleeker, cleaner look.

“On every piece of the house we asked, ‘How can we best do this?’” Strom says.

“We spent a lot of time making sure we did the best we could do.”

Details that Matter It is seemingly simple details that make the home stand out. For example, Strom designed a screen wall with horizontal slats that separates the kitchen from the front entryway and runs through all three levels, ending as the staircase railing on the second floor. The wall provides a sense of privacy and division in the open floor plan, but allows visibility and natural light. The horizontal lines also are replicated on a wall in the great room where the flat-screened television hangs.

At first, the homeowner wasn’t sure how the screen wall would add value. It quickly became a favorite feature. “It is so cool,” she says. “It works really well as a design element.”

Another detail that took considerable coordination is the stair treads on the floating staircase. They were custommade to match the flooring and

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“We knew that the house would stay in the family and our kids love the contemporary style. Now, I can’t imagine having designed it any differently.”

Homeowner

extended beyond the stair stringer a quarter inch, giving a cleaner, finished look to the stairs. Even the pieces that covered the screw holes were custommade to match the home’s woodwork.

While the main floor serves as the centerpiece for daily living and entertaining, the upper floor and walk-out basement provide those extra spaces that are needed when the rest of the family arrives.

The second floor was designed primarily for the family who spends nearly every summer weekend at the lake. It features three lake-facing bedrooms, one of which is a second master suite. A second washer and dryer are stacked and tucked behind a pocket door.

The basement includes a bunkhouse, a bedroom, a family room complete with a pool table and a bar. The walkout leads directly to a ground-level patio and the beach, which is where the grandchildren will begin to learn how to water ski and wakeboard.

The family spent their first summer in the home last year. Construction finished early, meaning they had the entire season to make new memories. “I like the functionality of it,” the homeowner says. “Every space is utilized and has a purpose, but it’s also beautiful. There isn’t a thing I wish we had done differently.” ~L&H

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R REMODELING

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by Dave Pedersen

Many worst-case scenarios were experienced when Kristi and Scott LaRowe embarked on knocking down most of the walls on the first floor of their home on Lake Fannie near Cambridge, Minn. Their story tells about the good and bad aspects in knocking down the walls.

Removing an interior wall in a home remodel may not be as simple as grabbing a sledgehammer. Depending on what’s hiding inside that wall, the project can be a treasure or be trouble.

Looking inside walls for the LaRowe family started when they were married and bought their first “project” home. It happened to be the first one built in Isanti and they found newspapers used as wall insulation dating back to 1887. It was a fun read but an extensive remodel.

When they bought a seasonal cabin near Pine City years back they found an active honey bee hive inside the walls, getting in through the knotholes in the siding.

The cabin happened to be once owned by famous gangster Al Capone, who used it as a hangout. Scott jokes they did not find any money in the walls.

Treasure has been discovered inside walls elsewhere, especially in bigger, older classic architecture. A man in Minnesota found a rare baseball card worth thousands of dollars.

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You may have to reroute gas lines and electrical wires, plus move vents that impact how the heating and cooling system works. Many parts of your home’s interior can be affected by the exterior problems, especially rotting wood and mold caused by moisture leakage.

Walls are important The goal of most wall removal projects is to connect rooms and create a more open floor plan to enhance function. A positive side effect can be increased market value. Yet, there can be negative side effects if not careful.

Walls are important as the main building blocks of the house, providing a barrier between interior and exterior, supporting ceiling and roof and differentiating indoor space into rooms. So any alteration is impacted by what unknowns lurk behind the walls.

Old buildings can conceal contaminants such as lead paint, asbestos and mold.

Depending on what you do find you can either do it yourself or you may need to hire more than one expert such as a plumber, electrician, engineer, architect or general contractor.

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Previous remodel history The LaRowe family knew a lot about home remodeling, having “flipped” a couple homes per year since the 2008 economic collapse–when many people lost their homes.

“It was a chance for us to help other people to hang on to their home,” recalls Scott about it being more of a ministry.

“We had a couple at our church that lost their home. We ended up buying another foreclosure that we fixed up for them where they had cheaper payments.”

Two years ago they decided to remodel their own home after coming to a realization.

“I am five years out from having cancer,” recalls Kristi. “I told Scott we should probably try to live our life more now instead of waiting until we are 60 or 70. We sold our house to our daughter and her husband and bought this place two years ago.”

The place is a 3,000 square-foot rambler built in 1988. It is located five minutes from where Scott is based as a farmer of 3,000 acres. With work on the farm, the couple found it difficult to get away in the summer so they wanted to keep their lake retreat local. They also wanted a house with an open concept, which meant removing many walls to create one big open space.

“We pretty much did the work ourselves, but had friends who helped out quite a bit,” said Kristi. “It costs too much money to hire out everything.”

The kitchen area Kristi says when you walked in one door there was a laundry room, big walk-in closet and a small kitchen area. The couple got rid of all that to create a big kitchen, adding an island.

There was a half wall between the living room and dining room with glass shelves.

The wall turned out to be hollow, so it was an easy takeout. With all the wires hanging from the new kitchen, an electrician had to be hired.

Other half walls enclosing the basement staircase were also easily removed and replaced by custom rails made of diamond willow sticks.

Removing walls between the living and dining room required a construction engineer (a friend) to design new weight bearing beams and posts. This was because the main wall going down the center of the house was removed.

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When removing a wall, consider what is going to happen to the floor and ceiling.

Hardwood floors will be difficult to patch between rooms. Ideally, you can replace the floors to make it all match up. Adding carpet will do the trick. Matching ceilings is fairly easy, but molding is where it gets tricky.

Begin the wall demolition by removing the baseboard. Eventually, you are going to shut off the power to the wall at the breaker, but it is a good idea to label all the switches first.

Now the bad news All was going well until they decided to replace the wood floor in a den area and found black mold underneath. Scott thought he better look inside the walls just above the bottom molding and could see more mold inside half the wall.

Water had leaked through the outside stucco wall. In one place it came through a hole where a wire was drilled into the wall. Plus, there were no drip caps over some of the windows so rain water would run under the window into the walls.

For some reason other windows didn’t get sealed properly and also had water damage and mold. All the windows had to be replaced, costing around $7,500.

Hiring someone to fix the stucco wall cost another $2,200.

Scott adds he was surprised how big of an area was affected. It is hard to get rid of mold. Scott said they bleached it all make sure everything was killed, but for the most part they tore it all out.

“It was horrible,” recalls Kristi. “We had to replace all the trim work before adding the new floors.” She adds the good news is they are very pleased with the end result and have no regrets.

Scott jokes that he has friends who can tell him what to do. He adds, “I am a farmer, but I am not really afraid of anything. I just find the smart guys to help me.”

Wall remodel notes Removing a wall in a one-story house is much different than in a two-story, which can cost significantly more. It can be a major engineering effort to accommodate the stress the second story will be putting on the other walls.

A good rule of thumb is that if the wall is toward the middle of the house and running perpendicular to the joists above, it is carrying weight.

Permits will vary from city to city. The norm is that if it is not a structural wall, a permit is not required.

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A reason for keeping your walls is they provide a large surface canvas for color, texture and form to achieve a specific ambiance.

In any home, the way walls are utilized can be transformative to the space. In the ends, one truth always remains: You cannot change a home’s location, but you can change the house, including knocking down some walls. ~L&H

“We pretty much did the work ourselves, but had friends who helped out quite a bit.�

Kristi LaRowe, Homeowner

O

ON THE LAKE

With over 10,000 lakes in Minnesota, the state has an abundance of shoreline.

Before humans settled in the state, our lakes had trees and native plants along the shoreline. This interface where the land meets the shore is critically important for our fish and wildlife species.

Fish, birds, insects and other animals need plants and aquatic vegetation for habitat.

Many fish hide among plants and spawn

in the protected areas. Loons and other shorebirds make their nests in floating vegetation at the edge of the water. Waterfowl feed on underwater plants, while muskrats, otters and beavers make their homes in shoreline vegetation.

Aquatic insects live among underwater plants and are important in recycling and decomposing the dead material at the bottom of the lake such as leaves, dead fish, and other organisms. They are also a

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major food source for fish, birds and frogs.

Songbirds and butterflies enjoy shoreline wildflowers for food and shelter.

When the state’s human inhabitants started building cabins and houses, we removed many of the trees and plants and replaced the area with manicured lawns.

Many of the new seedlings under existing trees get mowed over now, and many of our mature trees are dying due to age or disease.

Shoreline Buffers There are many things we can do to make the shoreline both beautiful and functional for maintaining water quality and healthy habitat in our lakes. Converting to a natural shoreline may take a bit of a change in perspective. We’re used to immaculately groomed lawns running right up to the lake’s edge. A natural shoreline consists of a buffer of native plants, trees and shrubs along the lake’s edge.

There are two main benefits to maintaining a natural shoreline: to slow runoff and filter nutrients that might otherwise reach your lake, and to maintain a healthy habitat for fish, birds, insects and other animals that live in and around the lake.

A natural shoreline can also increase privacy, increase property value, enhance aesthetics and deter nuisance geese.

You’ll probably even have more butterflies attracted to the flowers and songbirds perching in the shrubs and trees.

So how can I enhance my shoreline to protect the lake and benefit fish and wildlife? The easiest approach to establishing a buffer is simply to do nothing. If you stop mowing, weeding, and raking your shoreland area, many native plants will

Got Geese? Geese love a freshly mown lawn.

Having a natural shoreline deters nuisance geese from walking up on your property.

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likely reestablish. Plants such as spike rush, sedges, and arrowhead have become established on some shorelines when people stopped cutting and raking. Another option is to actively restore the site by replanting native vegetation in the water and on the adjacent land. There are many local agencies in Minnesota that can help you plan your project and even provide cost share funding. See the end of this article for contact information.

There are four steps to restore your shore: 1. Start by assessing your site and the different ways you use it (e.g., swimming, making campfires, docking your boat).

2. Carefully plan your project and prepare the site.

3. Select and plant appropriate native plants.

4. Maintain the area so the plants become well established.

You can still leave a path to your dock. A natural shoreline does not have to eliminate recreation and access to the lake.

There are many beautiful native plants

and grasses that can be used for shoreline buffers. It is also important to note that you may need to apply for a permit from the DNR or the county to make certain changes to your shoreline.

Rain Runoff Rain and high water can cause runoff and erosion into the lake that carries with it nutrients and pollutants. The nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) feed algae and the pollutants (oil, solvents, pesticides) can affect water quality and habitat quality.

This runoff can be referred to as nonpoint source pollution because it comes from a large diffuse area.

Do you feel like you spend your whole weekend mowing your lake lot?

If so, try mowing less area and sit back and watch the birds, butterflies and wildlife enjoy the taller vegetation.

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Point source pollution would come from a distinct source such as a discharge pipe.

When a lake lot has a lot of paved area (impervious surface) and groomed lawn, this nonpoint source pollution runs right into the lake instead of absorbing into the ground.

A natural buffer of native plants can filter and absorb this runoff so that it doesn’t impact the lake because native plants and trees have much deeper roots than turf grass, and these roots draw the rainwater down into the ground.

Rain Gardens Another way to capture runoff is to be proactive and construct areas for rainwater to collect in your yard. A rain garden is a de-

For help from a shoreline expert, contact: East Otter Tail County Soil & Water Conservation District: 218-346-4260 http://eotswcd.fatcow.com/EOT West Otter Tail County Soil & Water Conservation District: 218-739-4694 http://eotswcd.fatcow.com/WOT Becker County Soil and Water Conservation District: (218) 846-7360 http://www.co.becker.mn.us/dept/soil _ water

pression that contains native plants and shrubs designed to collect and filter rainwater. It is both beautiful and functional.

rain garden plants, visit: https://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/landscaping.

When designing a rain garden, work with the slope of the yard. Either construct the rain garden in a low area, or dig out a depression to collect water. Downspouts from the house and garage can be pointed or placed underground to run into the rain garden.

If we all work together around the lake, we can cumulatively improve the water quality and the habitat. We can all sit back and enjoy catching fish while watching the birds, butterflies, and wildlife enjoy the taller vegetation.

Since the goal of the rain garden is to draw rainwater down into the ground, the plants that work well in this setting are ones that like to be a bit wet. These include beautiful flowers such as blue flag iris, marsh marigolds, prairie wild onion, Canada anemone, and much more. For a list of

Additional Resources For information on Rain Gardens and Shoreline Restoration, visit University of Minnesota Extension: http://www.extension.umn.edu/environment/water/ property-owners/index.html For more information on shorelines and when a permit is required, visit the DNR: http://www.dnr.state. mn.us/permits/water/needpermit.html

82 LAKE AND HOME MAGAZINE MAY / JUNE 2017

Stewardship is an attitude. It is the understanding that what we do on land and in the water affects the lake. It is recognition that lakes are vulnerable and that in order to make them thrive, citizens, both individually and collectively, must assume responsibility for their care. ~L&H

For more information on shoreline restoration visit the Minnesota Shoreline Management Resource guide: http://www.d.umn.edu/~seawww/quick/index.html.

Enjoy the lakes! This article was written and shared by Moriya Rufer at RMB Environmental Laboratories as part of continuing education for their Lakes Monitoring Program.

218-846-1465, lakes@rmbel.info To learn more, visit www.rmbel.info.

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FEATURED LAKE

Star Lake Otter Tail County

Size: 4,454 Acres Max Depth: 94 ft.

County: Otter Tail Clarity: 9.2 ft.

Shore Length: 38.49 mi Star Lake is located in north-central Otter Tail County approximately four miles west of Dent, MN, and is connected to Dead and Round Lakes via non-navigable streams. The immediate watershed is composed primarily of agricultural land interspersed with hardwood woodlots. Extensive marsh areas are located in the south bay and the west arm of the lake. The maximum depth is 94 feet; however, 59% of the lake is 15 feet or less in depth.

DNR-owned public water accesses are located along the north and east shorelines. Stands of hardstem bulrush, wild rice, and common cattail are scattered along the shoreline of the entire lake; however, the largest stands are located in the south bay and the west arm. Emergent aquatic plants provide valuable fish and wildlife habitat, and are critical for maintaining good water quality.

Source: MN DNR

Star Lake is a popular angling lake during both the open water and ice fishing seasons. The lake has a reputation as one of the best all-around fishing lakes in Otter Tail County.

Fish species include black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, burbot, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, pumpkinseed, rock bass, smallmouth bass, tullibee (cisco), walleye, yellow bullhead, yellow perch, bowfin (dogfish), common carp, shorthead redhorse, and white sucker.