A Natural Solution to Eroding Shorelines
A living shoreline is a tool for shoreline stabilization that uses natural materials to protect the coast from erosion. They offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ‘hard’ armoring methods such as seawalls and bulkheads. Research has shown that living shorelines perform better during major storms than ‘hard’ methods, and as living shorelines mature, they can also be more stable over the long run.
Our living shorelines typically incorporate a variety of materials, including Modified Wire Reefs (MWRs), Oyster Castles®, shell bags, coir logs, and marsh grass plantings. The specific materials used vary depending on specific site conditions. In areas with high wave energy, for example, oyster castles may be used to provide more protection. In areas with lower wave energy, plants may be used to provide more habitat and erosion control.
Benefits of Living Shorelines
- Rebuilds lost shoreline by trapping sediment behind the living shoreline.
- Reduces erosion by absorbing wave energy and providing a buffer between the water and the shoreline.
- Increases habitat for a variety of fish, shellfish, and other wildlife, which is important for both the ecological and economic health of coastal communities.
- Improves water quality by filtering out pollutants and providing a nursery habitat for fish.
- Increases storm resilience. Living shorelines can help to reduce the damage caused by storms for the same reasons they help reduce erosion.
- Reduces maintenance costs. Living shorelines require less maintenance than traditional hard armoring methods such as seawalls and bulkheads.
- Reduces installation costs. More cost effective per linear foot when compared with seawalls and bulkheads.
