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

A natural shoreline offers increasing protection over time, becoming more established and resilient as native plants mature. Riprap, on the other hand, degrades over time and generally needs replacement within a decade.

What kind of materials do you use for erosion control?

Biodegradable erosion control fabrics and willow wattle. In cases where water runoff is causing erosion, soil wraps are another tool we use.

What is willow wattle?

Is a bundle of dry willow that gets installed along the shoreline. It helps manage water energy to prevent further erosion and protects new plantings from wave action. Using dry willow lowers the chances of it sprouting.

Where do you source the plants for my project?

We source our native plants from reputable suppliers within Minnesota who specialize in growing high-quality, locally sourced plant material. This ensures that the plants are well-adapted to our region’s climate and soil conditions, increasing their chances of survival and long-term success in your shoreline restoration project.

Would my native plants need a lot of maintenance?

They might need watering the first year and weeding the first couple of years, but as they get more established the maintenance time will be less, as they are well adapted to the area’s soil and weather.

Would my plants survive high water levels?

Yes, the plants selected for shoreline projects 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?

Integrating the community in restoration projects raises awareness, plus creates a deeper understanding and connection with the project. Working with volunteers also reduces installation costs.

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

Yes, absolutely. We design shorelines to work with your activities. We consider how you use your space and select plants to accommodate your needs, like boating or swimming, while still providing ecological benefits.