The Dudleys - Shadow Lake Shoreland Restoration
In 2024, OCNRCD installed two shoreland restoration projects on Shadow Lake, with the goals of managing the flow of stormwater and protecting eroding shorelines. These projects were identified during Lake Wise assessments done as a component of the Shadow Lake Watershed Action Plan.
One of the projects sought to reduce impervious surfaces on the property with the removal of approximately 575 square feet of a steep paved driveway and replacing it with the installation of 16 infiltration steps and 3 timber crib infiltration planting beds.
The project was developed by the project team in partnership with the landowners, Cori and Brad Dudley. The design was drawn by Memphremagog Watershed Association staff member, Patrick Hurley.
The total project cost was $35,000, which included design, installation oversight, materials, excavation and labor. The majority of the expense was covered by grant funding secured by OCNRCD from the Vermont Association of Conservation Districts. A crew for installation was provided by NorthWoods Stewardship Center. The landowners paid for 50% of the costs of materials.
Cori and Brad Dudley remarked that they were very pleased with their experience. “What an amazing collaboration for conservation and to reduce erosion to help our lake,“ shared Ms. Dudley. “Despite heavy rains this summer, the work that was stopped the flow of water from the roadway coming down like a heavy flowing creek. Now one can actually see that the water-permeable steps and tiered planting has substantially slowed the flow of water coming into the lake.”
Lake Wise is based on social science research that shows people are most influenced by what their neighbors are doing. The Dudleys are active members of their lake association, and their property is visible from the road, so the hope is that the changes they've made to their propoerty will help create a new culture of lakeshore landscaping that is proven to protect the lake, which is the goal of the Lake Wise program.