What is Shorescaping?
Shorescaping is a waterfront landscaping technique that uses native emergent and riparian plants to protect and beautify property shorelines. The deep root systems of these plants help anchor the soil – preventing further erosion and undercut banks. In addition, they help improve water quality and create habitats for a diverse range of aquatic and terrestrial life.
When turf is implemented up to your property’s waterline, extreme erosion is likely to occur. Its shallow root system and low tolerance to moist soil conditions often leads to undercut banks, slumping banks, and other stabilization and sedimentation issues. Opting for shorescaping – which utilizes deep-rooted native plants that thrive in and alongside the water’s edge – will better stabilize and protect your waterfront property.
Shorescape Benefits
- Prevents erosion and undercutting by absorbing wave energy and anchoring the soil in place.
- Reduces sedimentation and nitrification by utilizing buffers to absorb nutrients, trap sediments, and slow down contaminated water running off yards and roads.
- Improves water quality by filtering out pollutants from upland runoffs and absorbing excess nitrates and phosphorous from the water.
- Increases wildlife habitat by using native plants that provide diverse ecosystems for a variety of fish, shellfish, and other aquatic and terrestrial life.
- Enhances property value as well-designed shorescapes can add value to a property and create a beautiful and inviting space to enjoy.
- Lower maintenance costs when compared to traditional hard armoring methods, such as seawalls and bulkheads. Natural shorescapes also require less mowing than turf grass. These buffers help reduce pollutants and sediments reaching the body of water by slowing down stormwater runoff.
- Deters Canada geese, according to research. It has been found that mature vegetated buffers can actually deter geese – protecting water quality, as well as reducing geese waste along your waterfront.
