Cutting Trees from Bluff Slopes Somebody Didn't Get the "MEMO"
TO: Inexperienced Lakeshore Landowners FROM: The Coastal Centre DATE: June 2015 SUBJECT: Stop Clear Cutting Trees from Bluffs
It’s a recurring issue: clear-cutting trees from bluff slopes along the Huron County shoreline. It suggests that there are still a few people who haven’t gotten the memo. So here it is. Again!!!
Clear cutting trees from a bluff slope to gain a better view of the lake will lead to erosion, possibly even catastrophic slope failure.
Now here’s why:
The science is in. There is a cause and effect relationship between woodland clear cutting and mass slope failure.
Cutting of trees on slopes leads to a gradual decrease in stability as a result of the decay of roots that previously acted as tensile reinforcements in the slope. Root decay can also lead to the formation of underground crevices and channels, called "pipes" in a slope that promote erosion by groundwater seepage. Groundwater seepage is often a catalyst for large scale slope failures. Seepage of groundwater from a bluff is very complex, and very expensive to attempt remediation.
The removal of tree canopy results in the loss of evapo-transpiration (trees expel a lot of groundwater through their leaves). The loss of trees tends to promote wetter and less secure slopes. Removal of tree cover (canopy) also results in the direct impact of rainfall to the soil surface, since the tree cover protects the soil by intercepting rain drops before they hit the surface. Trees also help to reduce surface water runoff velocities, which can erode soil from the face of the slope.
One of the troubling things about the removal of large number of trees from coastal slopes is that it typically takes 8 to 10 years for roots to decay, removing that critical stabilization benefit. This long time period can lead people to believe initially that no harm has been done. But the adverse effects become evident several years later, and the resulting erosion cannot only affect the property on which the trees were removed, but affect neighbouring properties as well.
What to do if you want a view:
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Forget about that panoramic vista that you’ve seen on postcards. It doesn’t work well on Lake Huron. The trees provide stability to the slope, increasing the lifespan of your property.
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You can establish a lake view by opening up a “window,” selectively cutting tree branches. You’ll get a view, but also retain the trees for slope stability and wind protection.
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Hiring a qualified arborist is likely worth the investment to make sure the work is done safely, and without any collateral damage.
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Read more on bluff stewardship here.
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For information on current shoreline regulations and by-laws, contact your local conservation authority or municipality.
The Coastal Centre has a large array of shore-related information available to all shoreline landowners, but particularly valuable to newcomers to Lake Huron. Understanding our lake and coastal processes is a good investment for long, happy enjoyment of your property.
Article by Geoff Peach, Coastal Resources Manager
Be Careful Out There
With beach season underway, being aware of potential dangers is important to a safe and relaxing day on the shore.
We’ve talked before about rip currents in past issues, but it’s good to remind yourself of what they are, where they might occur and how to escape if you get caught in one. Check out the Centre’s Beach Safety page, and learn simple tips at the Be Current Smart website. Structures, such as piers and jetties, are notorious places for dangerous currents to occur. Many drownings have occurred around these kinds of structures. Check out this video, “In Over Your Head: a 3-step process for saving your life.”
Be cautious of water temperature. Extensive ice cover over the past couple of winters means that the lake will take longer to warm up. Cold water can zap your energy quickly, and can lead to hypothermia. Know where to find lifesaving equipment at the beach. Certified Blue Flag beaches are required to have life saving equipment. Only a small number of public beaches on Lake Huron have qualified lifeguards on duty (Sarnia, Goderich Rotary Cove and Grand Bend).
Water quality information is usually available online through local Public Health Units. Links to area Health Units can be found on our Beach Safety page. SwimGuide is a Smart Phone app that may be a useful tool, too.
Oui, We
This June 24, celebrate St. Jean Baptiste Day. He is the patron saint of coastal stewardship. At least, I think I read that somewhere.
To honour this saint, consider donating to the Coastal Centre. We do coastal stewardship. Oui, we!
To make a donation click here.