Shorelines of inland lakes in regions of Michigan are continuously eroded by wave energy and ice movement. With the erosion of these shorelines sediment builds up changing the ecology of the lake by eliminating fish and other wildlife habitat (“Shoreline Erosion”, 2014). Studies have shown that natural shorelines can provide adequate erosion protection, while providing habitat for wildlife and improving water quality (Bariteau, 2013, Hartig et. al. 2011, & Bilkovic et. al. 2013). This study uses a picture preference method to determine if there is any significant difference in the perception of natural versus hard shorelines across seven dimensions, namely: aesthetic, maintenance, cost efficiency, erosion protection, recreation opportunities, habitat capacity, and improving water quality. It was found that while people find natural shorelines attractive and know the ecological benefits of them, they perceive them as requiring maintenance and not protecting against erosion as much as a hard shoreline can. Incentive programs and policy need to be put in place to ensure the ecological health of Michigan’s inland lakes.
Read
