Shoreline Erosion Repair

Lakes and ponds can enhance property value, but they also pose liabilities. One of the largest areas of liability is the shoreline. An eroded, unstable shoreline isn’t just an eyesore, it poses safety hazards for landscapers, residents, and visitors, especially children and the elderly who could fall into the water due to unstable banks. Nearby homes and infrastructure may also be impacted by receding shorelines and subsequent flooding issues. Property owners could be held liable for injuries or property damage, and individuals have a strong legal case if they can prove the shoreline was neglected. Proactive pond maintenance is one of the most impactful ways to prevent dangerous conditions, uphold property values, and potentially shield lake and pond owners and managers from legal action.

Before proactive pond maintenance efforts can be implemented, it may be necessary to completely rebuild the shoreline. Several options are available to restabilize the banks, including rip-rap and coir logs; however, many professionals consider a bioengineered living shoreline to be the most effective, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing solution.

Shoreline maintenance is crucial, whether your shoreline was recently rebuilt or you desire to prolong the safety and stability of your existing shoreline. One of the most important maintenance strategies is cultivating a buffer of beneficial vegetation around the perimeter of the waterbody. Professionals can recommend native plants that grow complex root systems to help hold soil in place. The dense buffer of plants can also help shield the shoreline from harsh weather and slow the velocity of stormwater runoff that flows into the water during rainstorms. Buffers may also help improve safety by deterring people from venturing too close to the water’s edge.

Lake and pond health starts at the shoreline, but simply maintaining a safe, stable shoreline does not guarantee clean, safe water. As part of a proactive management approach, Aquatic Experts recommend ongoing water quality testing to gain a full picture of what’s happening beneath the water. Just like a blood test, water samples are assessed in a laboratory to establish a baseline of health. Aquatic biologists look at many different parameters, such as nutrient concentrations, dissolved oxygen levels, and pH.

If imbalances are detected, they can initiate other solutions to correct them. These may include applying nutrient remediation products to make water less hospitable to weeds and toxic algae, introducing beneficial bacteria to naturally “digest” bottom muck and reduce odors, or installing a fountain or aerator to enhance circulation and improve dissolved oxygen levels, promoting healthier fish and microorganisms.