Shore Erosion Control Guidelines
The Wetlands and Waterways Program recognized the need to to improve standards and review criteria for a common activity in tidal wetlands: installation of shoreline stabilization. Vegetative stabilization has become increasingly more favored since the 1980's. More contractors today with primary expertise in hard structural practices are incorporating vegetative elements in areas where the practice is less suitable, or may require a combination of vegetative and hard controls. In some of these cases, there is some question as to whether or not the created marsh is providing the functions typically associated with tidal wetlands: shoreline stabilization, water quality, and habitat. The Tidal Wetlands Division, Wetlands and Waterways Program recognized the need to evaluate shoreline stabilization and marsh creation projects for effectiveness in both erosion control and wildlife habitat. In partnership with the University of Maryland, the Program began a study to evaluate shoreline stabilization and marsh creation projects for effectiveness for both erosion control and wildlife habitat. The findings of the study have resulted in new guidelines for marsh creation and accompanying sample drawings. Guidelines will assist regulators, contractors, and the regulated community in selecting the most appropriate shoreline stabilization protection for protecting shorelines, water quality, and habitat.