Why Is My Shoreline Deteriorating? And What You Can Do To Fix It

When you live on a lake or a river and own waterfront property, you likely enjoy the views and having close proximity to the water. Although the views may be picturesque, the shoreline can be less than perfect if it's started to erode and you have to take on more responsibility with maintaining the outdoor setting. If you notice your shoreline is deteriorating and slowly receding closer to your home, there are a few steps you can take to fix it and stop it in it's tracks.

You may notice your shoreline has receded about 10 feet, which may leave you wondering if you can rebuild it. Many people are surprised to learn it's illegal to rebuild shorelines, and you'll have to obtain a permit to rebuild lost shoreline. Without the permit, you won't be allowed to add any additional soil to the shoreline because the government doesn't want the land to be rebuilt.

What causes shorelines to deteriorate?
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There are many causes of shoreline deterioration, which can often be difficult to prevent. Natural erosion occurs due to waves and currents, storms, and landslides. Sediment reduction is also due to climate changes, source depletion, and stream avulsion.

Those with lawns next to their shoreline may encounter problems because the lawn is shallow and is often over-fertilized. Over time, this can lead to a loss of natural habitat, algae blooms, lake sedimentation, and loss of leisure time. Creating a buffer zone is crucial for filtering out pollutants, absorbing wave action, and creating a more natural and lush setting where plenty of flowers and plants can thrive.

There are also many human activities that can cause shorelines to deteriorate as you spend more time outside or if your neighbors are always in the water. Boat wakes can cause altered water circulation, which leads to the soil pulling into the water. Excavation from mineral extraction and dredging are also causes. Coastal construction also leads to less of a shoreline.

What are the benefits of a healthy shoreline? 
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Although shorelines are necessary for having more room to sit when you fish or lay out in the sun, they also offer additional benefits each season. Shorelines are necessary to maintain because they absorb waves and prevent erosion, improve water quality, establish a natural environment, and provide wildlife habitat.

It's important to immediately stop the deterioration from occurring to prevent suffering from more loss. You can obtain a property riprapped shoreline. Although it can come with a high cost, obtaining a loan is an option to prevent further damage if you wait too long.

The amount of land that is available significantly influences the value of your property, making it necessary to protect it. The investment you spend on a restored shorline can allow you to maintain your property value and make it more in demand if you plan to sell it in the future.

What does the shoreline restoration process look like?
 
Your options may be limited when it comes to repairing your shoreline, but you can still take action before it's too late. Riprap shorlines are an ideal solution because they are known as rock armor and use a variety of materials to prevent the shoreline from deteriorating.

Using natural plant buffers prevent the shorelines from washing away over time because they act as a barrier that can protect the soil from slipping away into the water. It's important to hire a team of professionals who can examine the grounds to take a look at the soil and assess the location. They'll also take the amount of sunlight and drainage into consideration.

The pitch of the slopeline is an additional factor that can remedy the issue. The slopeline should be 3:1 because it will work better at defining waves that pound against the shore and will handle the impact. A professional will need to compact the soil correctly, or it will start to deform once riprap stones are piled on top. Look for someone that will compact the soil before installing the riprap and fabric because the heavy stones won't be effective enough to prevent further deterioration. Using more fabric will prove to work better as a long-term solution.

Although it can be easy to assume that a deteriorating shoreline isn't as important as the lake you get to enjoy, the damage can be extensive over time and will continue to increase. It's important to avoid losing the land that you own to ensure you have enough place to stretch out and spend time outside in the coming years. Shoreline restoration can prevent you from feeling limited with where you can lounge and explore in your own backyard each season.

Need help bringing your shoreline back to life? 

If your shoreline is deteriorating on your property, you can inquire about our professionals services by calling 941-479-7811, emailing admin@crosscreekenv.com, or filling out the Pricing Request Form.