Step 1: Site Visit and Design

Careful mapping and surveying of each site allows us to customize the design to the specific site conditions.

Constructing a Living Shoreline requires state and local permits. Once all these permits are in-hand, the work can begin.

Step 2: Site Preparation

Temporary site access is established by installing wooden mats for equipment to drive on. If the bank requires grading sometimes trees need to be removed. Trees shading the bank may be pruned. pre-existing degraded structures (failed bulkheads, etc.) are removed.

Step 3: Sill Construction

Filter cloth is placed and stone is carefully installed according to design height and location.

Step 4: Grading and Sand Placement

The existing bank is graded to correct the slope. Sand is installed and graded as a planting base for marsh grasses.

Step 5: Planting

Marsh grasses are planted at their preferred elevations with Spartina alterniflora planted below Mean High Water (MHW) and Spartina patens planted above MHW.

Step 4: Goose Protection

The new marsh is protected from grazing geese with exclusion fencing. This fencing is taken down after the marsh plants have had time to become established - usually after 1 year.