Last Updated on 21 August 2024 by mysumptuousness.com
Owning a property along a lake offers a luxurious lifestyle. You get to wake up to the peaceful sounds of nature, enjoy serene views, and easily access the water, whether for a dip, a water sport, or other recreational activity. However, managing a home by the water comes with the responsibility to protect the surrounding ecosystems.
Fortunately, many creative and sustainable landscaping practices can preserve the natural environment while enhancing your backyard’s aesthetics and functionality. Let’s explore five lakefront backyard ideas and tips you can implement to achieve that.
Invest in a Rainwater Collection System
Using a rainwater harvesting system like barrels and cisterns in your yard is one of the most practical ways to reduce environmental impact. It captures runoff water during storms, which can serve as an irrigation source, especially during hot and dry weather. You can also use it to wash laundry, dishes, and outdoor furniture or top off a swimming pool, provided you have water filters.
This water conservation method can help you save energy and cut costs associated with watering, reducing your dependence on municipal water sources. Despite that, it’s crucial to note that not all states permit rainwater collection at home and that the initial setup and maintenance may be expensive. So, research on relevant local laws and overall costs to make an informed decision.
Incorporate Drought-Tolerant Plants
Fill your backyard or garden with plants requiring less watering than usual. They can thrive in challenging conditions, meaning you won’t have to spend too much time, effort, and money on maintenance and potential replacements. Native varieties are excellent options since they naturally adapt to the local climate and soil and render using chemical pesticides and fertilizers unnecessary.
Moreover, drought-tolerant plants add texture and color to your landscape and support local wildlife like birds and pollinators. These include:
- Black-Eyed Susans
- Blanket Flowers
- Purple Coneflowers
- Lavender
- Ornamental Grasses
- Sedum
Install Permeable Paving Options
Paved areas like patios, walkways, and driveways are incorporated into outdoor areas to prevent excessive rainwater absorption. However, traditional paving materials like concrete can contribute to heavy runoff, which can be challenging to manage and may harm your lakefront yard’s delicate ecosystem. Instead, utilize permeable pavers, porous concrete, natural stone, and gravel.
These alternatives promote natural drainage, reduce runoff, filter out pollutants, and prevent flooding and erosion while providing a durable surface. They should be installed securely with deep gravel bases to ensure their effectiveness.
Besides their functional advantages, permeable paving materials are available in endless colors and styles. Whether you prefer a rustic stone pathway or a modern concrete patio, you can find options that match your ideal aesthetic while embracing sustainability. It’s a win-win for both you and the environment.
Create Natural Shoreline Buffers
If you own a lakefront property, you understand how severe shoreline erosion can be, mainly when heavy rains or fluctuating water levels occur. Stabilizing the soil along the water’s edge with untouched native plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees helps prevent this issue.
These natural buffers have extensive root systems that can enhance water quality by filtering out contaminants and excess nutrients before reaching the lake, protecting the surrounding environment. They also provide an aquatic habitat and food sources for local wildlife.
When creating a resilient buffer, choose a mix of native plants that thrive in wet and dry conditions and can withstand fluctuating water levels. This diversity creates a robust defense against shoreline erosion and improves the lake ecosystem’s health. Over time, your buffer will mature into a lush, vibrant boundary that adds to your property’s appeal.
Use Energy-Efficient Outdoor Features
Designing an environmentally friendly yard doesn’t have to come at the cost of energy consumption. Consider using solar-powered or LED lights, which consume significantly less energy than traditional ones, to illuminate outdoor pathways, decks, and other areas.
You can also integrate solar-powered water fountains and fire pits fueled by renewable energy to set a magical ambiance. If you want to fully embrace sustainability, invest in outdoor furniture and hardscapes made from recycled or responsibly sourced materials. These include Adirondack chairs made from recycled plastic or a wooden outdoor dining set crafted from ethically harvested timber.
Enjoy Lakefront Living While Giving Back to the Environment
Crafting an outdoor space that will benefit you and the natural world requires thoughtful landscaping decisions. With the tips above, you can design yours to focus on conservation and sustainability while allowing for function and aesthetics. Contact trusted landscape designers to explore more eco-friendly lakefront backyard ideas that suit your needs and preferences.