GreenShores Hardened Shoreline

Hardened shorelines refer to the artificial structures installed to fortify or “harden” where water meets land. Riprap, bulkheads, and seawalls are the most common shoreline hardening techniques. The shoreline extending through both Project GreenShores I and II had previously been hardened with riprap (layers of rocks/boulders along the shoreline) prior to the major restoration efforts. Although these hard structures can maintain shoreline position, they don’t provide the full range of ecosystem services and benefits that natural shoreline habitats do, hence the move towards hybrid or living shoreline approaches that protect the shore and provide a range of other benefits. The hardened shorelines within Project GreenShores I and II restoration areas still provide some additional habitat diversity in the restored seascape in close proximity to the marsh mounds, oyster reefs, and offshore breakwaters.

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