This important 486 feet of waterfront wetland and 42 acres of grass and timbered hillside was acquired by the Conservancy to protect water that drains from the western boundaries of our lake’s upland watershed into the lake. An initial 386 feet of waterfront wetland and 22 acres behind it was purchased by the Conservancy in 2017 and another 100 feet of waterfront and 20 acres of timbered hillside was added in 2019 when an adjoining parcel was protected. These lands were exposed to the upland watershed being damaged if not for our many supporters around the lake who stepped up to help save this critical piece of upland watershed and lower wetland in perpetuity for us all.
The lower wooded grassland and treed portion of the Shawl Wetland accepts water from high on the timbered hillside watershed. Shawl Wetland will continue to act as the natural cleanser and sponge to clean, filter, hold, and return water to our lake. Seventy-five percent of the purchase amount was covered by donations from several Conservancy Board members and donors as well as donations from friends of the Conservancy from neighboring Shore Acres Estates. A clean-up of debris and trails in 2018 involved over 23 Volunteers from Shore Acres Estates.
This wetland named after the original President of the Loon Lake Land Conservancy and his wife Jan, both of whom provided extraordinary leadership and commitment to protecting and preserving the health of Loon Lake. The Shawl Wetland is a great place for a shady stroll near the water and a chance to view turtles, herons, ducks of all types, and the deer who regularly wander through this wetland. There is a kiosk and main entrance just off South Loon Lake Road to the west with further information about the Conservancy. Please continue to Preserve, Protect and Enjoy these spaces.
