Protecting Shorelines through Conservation Easements

Living Lakes Initiative

Ducks Unlimited is accelerating efforts to protect shorelines and to secure into conservation ownership strategic outlets to allow waterfowl friendly water level management of shallow lakes. Lakes with existing water control structures and fish barriers are the highest priority for easements. Additionally, lakes designated as wildlife lakes by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are also prioritized for easements as these lakes are managed by the State with an emphasis on waterfowl.

Ducks Unlimited is taking a leadership role in protecting shorelines and the outlets of shallow lakes in Minnesota. A rapidly growing market for lake front property and lake access threatens the ecology of shallow lakes and the ability of conservation agencies to manage water effectively for waterfowl. As development encircles shallow lakes, disturbance causes waterfowl to underutilize the lake. Additionally, residents living on a shallow lake may have expectations of their lake inconsistent with healthy lake ecosystems and waterfowl.

Solicitation of donated conservation easements from shoreline landowners is the main thrust of this effort. Bargain sale purchased conservation easements are considered if funds from public grants are available. When land adjacent to shallow lakes or land containing large drained wetlands becomes available in critical areas, DU may also decide to purchase these tracts in fee title. Purchased tracts will be restored, protected with conservation easements, and then resold to conservation buyers. Capital recuperated from the sale of land will be reinvested in acquisitions of additional properties that become available in the future.

Contact the DU Living Lakes professionals if you are interested in protecting a shoreline with a conservation easement.

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More information on conservation easements in Minnesota & Iowa