Yes-we are still hashing over the details and plans are for around the 2nd week in June. Perhaps at the Arboretum in Brainerd. Please stay in touch. Inform others too.

I think all your ideas will work, including the grass seed. I would limb up the tree more ... at least so you can walk under it. As it grows, you're going to want to create and maintain view of the water below it.

Usually, work near or in water requires a permit. At least, that's how it goes in my state. Your chance to do much unintended damage is great. Plus, why remove cabbage palms? What "brush" species are you talking about? good native stuff? Invasive Brazillian pepper? Inquiring minds want to know. What is your goal? Diquat will not be effective in the manner you seek. It is indeed used in aquatic settings, but not at all like what you're trying to do. I think you need to consult with a local expert before something gets boned up here, and I'd still like to know what the end game looks like. +oM

I don't know about the swivel chairs. search around for "small swivel chairs" and check their measurements. you know I was thinking about it last night and realized there's a much more obvious layout for you. this one would give you more room to pass through to the stairs. (depending on the actual size of the room -- my proportions are total guesswork and might be way off.) you could mount the TV on the wall to give a lot of clearance in front of it. of course this means you'd have to slightly block the window off to the right. but it's a functional layout for a tiny room. my inlaws have a layout like this below. the coffee table is massive, but there is still just enough space to pass through. it's a great setup for social situations, lots of snacks and drinks on that table. however, that would be annoying if it's the only way you get from the stairs to the rest of the cabin. you might need to do a smaller coffee table if that's the case. if there's no room for side tables, consider wall mounted lamps to save space.