Why should I choose a natural shoreline over riprap for erosion control?

Mature native plants offer increased protection to shorelines as they grow. On the other hand, riprap degrades and usually requires full replacement within a decade.

What kind of materials do you use for erosion control?

We use biodegradable erosion control fabrics and willow wattle. Additionally, when water runoff is causing erosion, soil wraps are another tool we use.

What is willow wattle?

Is a bundle of dry willow that we install along the shoreline. Willow wattle is a helpful way to manage water energy to prevent further erosion while also protecting new plantings from wave action. We use dry willow to lower the chances of it sprouting.

Where do you source the plants for my project?

We source our native plants from reputable local Minnesota suppliers who specialize in high-quality. Consequently, these plants adapt naturally to our region’s specific climate and soil. By choosing these local varieties, we significantly increase the survival rate and long-term success of your shoreline restoration project.

Would my native plants need a lot of maintenance?

You might neet to water during the first year and weed for the first couple of seasons. However, as the native plants establish, they require significantly less maintenance. This is because their natural adaptation to the local soil and weather allows them to thrive with minimal intervention over time.

Would my plants survive high water levels?

Yes, our carefully chosen native plants can handle high water levels as they are well adapted to water level fluctuations.

How does the volunteer system work?

We rely on the dedication of your friends and family to install projects.

The number of volunteers needed will depend on the size of the project, but many projects can be done with a handful of volunteers.

What are the benefits of doing my projects with the help of volunteers?

We integrate the community in our restoration projects to raise awareness, and create a deeper understanding and connection with the project. Besides, collaborating with volunteers significantly reduces installation costs.

Can a natural shoreline restoration be designed to accommodate my existing waterfront activities??

Yes, absolutely. We design our shoreline projects to work with your activities. For that reason, we consider how you use your space and select plants to accommodate your needs, while still providing ecological benefits.