A Smarter Way to Landscape
Shorescaping is a waterfront landscaping technique that uses native wetland 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.
Benefits of Shorescaping
- Prevents erosion and undercutting by absorbing wave energy and anchoring the soil in place.
- Reduces sedimentation and nitrification by using 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 runoff 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; well-designed shorescapes can add value to a property and create a beautiful and inviting space to enjoy.
- Lowers maintenance costs when compared with traditional hard armoring methods such as seawalls and bulkheads. Natural shorescapes also require less mowing than turf grass.
- Deters Canada geese, according to research. Researchers have found that mature vegetated buffers can actually deter geese – protecting water quality, as well as reducing geese waste along your waterfront.
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.
