2nd National Extension Nat Res Conference-Abstract 65

Barbara Liukkonen, University of Minnesota Water Resources Center, 173 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108; 612.625.9256; liukk001@tc.umn.edu; and Terri Port, Master Gardener, 244 Marks Road, Esko, MN 55733; 218.879.7282; tport@duluth.infi.net

Minnesota has 15,000 lakes and 92,000 miles of flowing water that are under increasing pressure from shoreland development. Restoring shorelines that have been over-developed and ensuring sound management of properties being developed is critical to protecting water quality, habitat, and property values. Natural shorelines filter nutrients and reduce runoff, improve aquatic and upland habitat, enhance aesthetics, sustain property values, and help maintain privacy. Helping property owners understand the importance of creating riparian buffers, adopting sound management practices, or replacing their turf-only lawns with a more natural shoreland is a time-consuming effort that requires local understanding, response, and support.

Shoreland restoration is a critical issue right now and many property owners are excited about improving their shorelines. It is, however, difficult to find accurate information, trained professionals, or consistent protocols and guidance. Extension Master Gardeners provide an excellent means to reach shoreland property owners with accurate information and to provide the one-on-one technical assistance that owners need to create naturalized shorelines.

In a recent survey of resource managers, local units of government, and lake association leaders, 46% indicated they are commonly asked questions about shoreland revegetation and 55% requested ?how to? information. Master Gardeners can also serve as resources for these professionals and can help them respond to property owners? questions.

In Minnesota, Master Gardeners have been involved in evaluating properties, developing restoration plans, identifying appropriate native plants, and assisting property owners with design and planting. Master Gardeners are aware of community needs and are connected with neighbors and leaders at the local level; they are well-trained in horticultural practices and sound ecological principles; they are eager to learn and share their knowledge with others; and they can extend the capacity of county staff who might have limited expertise, time, or interest in water resources or shoreland management. There are 2000 trained Master Gardeners in Minnesota who have graduated from a 48-hour educational program and completed 50 hours of on-the-job-training.
At a recent state conference, 300 Master Gardeners focused on restoration using native plants.

During 2000, Extension will sponsor 15, shoreland design and planting workshops around the state. These will focus on practical, hands-on experience for property owners, local resource managers, and nursery staff who are interested in restoration. Demonstration sites have been established across Minnesota to address the range of ecotypes, and a variety of shoreland problems, soil types, and owner interests. The University of Minnesota Extension is building a base of shoreland educational materials and will be collaborating on a registry of shoreland restoration projects. Master Gardeners are an integral component of Extension?s comprehensive shoreland education program.