A shoreline management practice that provides erosion control benefits; protects, restores, or enhances natural shoreline habitat; and maintains coastal processes through the strategic placement of plants, stone, sand fill, and other structural organic materials (e.g. biologs, oyster reefs, etc).
– National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
When protecting coastal properties, a living shoreline (LSL) approach represents a “softer and greener” alternative to “gray” approaches such as traditional hard armoring (e.g., seawalls and bulkheads). A LSL uses natural materials to stabilize the shoreline and maintain valuable fish and wildlife habitat. Living shoreline projects utilize a variety of materials such as wetland plants, oyster shell, coir fiber logs, sand, wood, and native rock. Every LSL should be the result of thoughtful, careful consideration of each project site and strategic placement of natural components along the shoreline profile.
When constructed correctly, a LSL not only provides erosion control, but also maintains coastal processes. Like naturally-vegetated coastlines, LSLs can help reduce wave energy and storm impacts, reduce erosion and property loss, trap sediments, improve water clarity, filter pollutants, preserve coastal resiliency, provide recreational opportunities, and provide important fish and wildlife habitat.
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