Got A Lakefront Home With A Failing Seawall? You Could Get Thousands To Help Replace It

With Lake of the Ozarks' water level at its seasonal low and spring-like temperatures warming up the area, it's the perfect time to check seawalls for signs of failure.

The Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance encourages waterfront property owners to walk the walls, checking for cracking or undercutting that can allow soil pollutants to enter the Lake through erosion. Plus, it's a good time to pick up trash along the shoreline.

"The Lake is growing by leaps and bounds," LOWA Executive Director Donna Swall said, noting the Lake is a massive economic engine for the entire region. "It is very important that we protect our Lake asset. This is LOWA's 20th year educating and procuring grants, and the Lake is healthier than it was 20 years ago."

If owners find any issues of sediment entering the water, LOWA is ready to help. The organization will pay 40% of the first $5,000 for rip rap through an in-house grant (seawall must be older than 2006). Rip rap helps stop erosion and prevent further damage.

Sediment becomes a table for bacteria growth. Other harmful things leaching into the Lake include oil from cars, chemicals, over-fertilization, and anything that's carried by storm water and wave action.

"We are protecting our investment and improving the water quality around our docks where we swim," Swall said.

View all of LOWA's Cost-Share Services

In April, LOWA will host a Neighborhood Community Cleanup at the Woods Supermarket in Sunrise Beach. People can drop off electronics and appliances at no charge. There will be a minimal fee for tires, with a special section of useable items people can take home for free.

Watch the LOWA website for more information.

LOWA’s mission is to preserve, protect, and improve the Lake of the Ozarks Watershed, its waters, and natural resources while maintaining economic, social, and environmental health. They do this through research, monitoring, education, and hands-on conservation efforts, to ensure clean, healthy water for the Lake of the Ozarks community.

To see if you are in the approved watershed area for potential grant support of Low Impact Landscaping, email adminasst@lowatershed.org. Whether or not you are eligible for support, homeowners can receive a yard visit from one of LOWAs Trained Volunteer Evaluators to assess and recommend solutions to reduce runoff and protect the shoreline.

For discounted pump outs, contact adminasst@lowatershed.org to apply for a $100 coupon. See qualifying areas here.