About Living Shorelines

​Is a living shoreline right for me?

PictureAn eroding shoreline on the James River. Photo by the James River Association.
Living shorelines are nature-based approaches for shoreline protection and are the preferred stabilization method for tidal shorelines. In addition to stabilizing shorelines, they conserve and restore natural habitats and provide ecosystem services.

A living shoreline may be a good option if your shoreline is eroding or if your current shoreline structure is starting to fail. Site conditions will determine which type of shoreline stabilization approach is appropriate and these approaches vary in appearance and cost. Below are examples of living shorelines from our region.

There are technical and financial assistance programs available to residents in the James River watershed to assist with the installation of living shorelines. You can Apply for Cost Share if you are in the Lower James Watershed. If you are not in the James River Watershed, check out other assistance programs available in Virginia. 

Example Projects

Coir Log

These projects use a coconut fiber log (also called a coir log) that stabilizes the edge of the marsh as the plants grow; eventually the fiber log decomposes.

Oyster Castle Sill

Oyster castles, which are one of many artificial oyster reef products on the market, provide stabilization and protection from wind and wave energy. Over time oysters will colonize the concrete oyster castles. Pictures were taken at low tide.

Stone Sill

Stone sills typically use riprap (rock) to stabilize the project and provide protection from wind and wave energy.

Breakwater

Offshore breakwaters are considered a hybrid approach and are suited for high-energy shorelines where wind, waves, and boat traffic can impact shoreline conditions.
Living shorelines are not the only method of shoreline stabilization. This brochure by SAGE Coast depicts the spectrum of shoreline stabilization approaches.

​Benefits

Living shorelines provide benefits to property owners, wetlands, waterways, and the surrounding communities. These benefits include:
  • Erosion control. Living shoreline techniques stabilize shorelines and reduce erosion.
  • Water quality benefits. Living shorelines filter stormwater runoff and improve water quality.
  • Habitat for wildlife. Living shorelines provide critical habitat to native plants and animals and create continuity between upland and wetland habitats.
  • Attractive appearance. By using natural materials and native plants, living shorelines provide an attractive, natural appearance.
  • Coastal resilience.
In addition to erosion control, living shorelines provide a variety of benefits to homeowners, communities, and river health.