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The preferred methods of shoreline stabilization are those that restore or mimic natural stabilization methods, such as planting vegetation and "bioengineering", using live plant materials and natural structural materials such as brush bundles and coconut fiber. The structural materials provide protection while the vegetation is establishing, but are generally designed to biodegrade over a period of years. Vegetation used for these types of projects have large, deep root systems that hold the soil in place, and typically also include some plantings in the water to absorb wave action.
Links to more information about alternative stabilization methods are found on the Shoreline Stabilization Links page.
Bulkheads were a common method of stabilization in the past. However, bulkheads have multiple negative impacts, including:
For these reasons, bulkheads are highly regulated by multiple agencies, and require submittal of a report by a professional that the bulkhead is the least impacting method of stabilization that will work for the project.