When people think about protecting their waterfront property from erosion, they often imagine bulkheads or seawalls. These are hard structures designed to hold the water back.

But there’s another solution that’s not only effective, but also sustainable and environmentally friendly: the living shoreline.

At Fight the Flood, we work across the rural coastal and tidal Middle Peninsula region of Virginia to connect property owners to the contractors who are uniquely qualified to design living shoreline protection strategies that last.

So what exactly is a living shoreline, and why should you consider one? Read on.

A Living Shoreline: Defined

A living shoreline uses natural materials like native grasses, sand, plants, and sometimes low-profile rock structures to stabilize and protect the edge of the land where it meets the water. Unlike traditional hard structures, living shorelines absorb wave energy, reduce erosion, and promote healthy ecosystems.

They’re designed to work with nature, not against it.

How Does It Work?

Living shoreline materials work together to slow erosion, trap sediment, and create habitat for fish, crabs, birds, and other wildlife.

What Are the Benefits?

• Erosion Control: Stabilizes shorelines naturally, reducing the loss of land over time.
• Flood Protection: Slows down and absorbs wave energy, reducing storm impacts and standing water.
• Water Quality: Filters runoff and traps sediment before it enters nearby waterways.
• Habitat Creation: Supports biodiversity by providing a home for native species.
• Aesthetic Value: Enhances the natural beauty of a property with native plants and wetlands.
• Long-Term Sustainability: Adaptable to sea level rise and designed to grow stronger over time.

Is a Living Shoreline Right for You?

Living shorelines work best in areas with:

• Low to moderate wave energy
• Gradual slopes leading to the water
• Tidal wetlands or creeks
• Property owners are committed to long-term, nature-based solutions
• Property owners with a budget

The budget is an important component, for sure.

Coastal engineers can design living shorelines to FEMA storm protection levels that people want with rock, concrete, or other solutions, and match it to their budget.

Is Funding Available?

Possibly!

With a little information from you, the Fight the Flood staff can evaluate your living shoreline needs and respond with funding opportunities that you are eligible for.

Loan funding is currently available, offering low interest rates and providing more immediate assistance. Grant funding eligibility varies and can take time to access, sometimes ranging from months to years.

Go here to start the process.

Pro Tip

Want to check your property for your FEMA zone? Use this tool here.