Erosion is the gradual wearing a way of land due to natural forces like wind, water, and ice. For waterfront property owners, erosion can lead to a loss of land, decreased property value, and potential damage to structures.

Prepping your home for unpredictable weather is vital, especially when living near water. Homeowners can experience hurricanes, tropical storms, winter storms, and strong winds. All of which can cause erosion. Here’s how to protect your waterfront property against erosion.

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Look for Signs of Erosion

Understanding the signs of erosion can help you take early action. Look for changes in the shoreline, exposed roots, or soil that seems to be disappearing.

Muddy water, early signs of soil erosion

You might also notice muddy water after a rainstorm or cracks in the ground near the water’s edge.

Cracked soil, early signs of soil erosion


 

Understand the Causes of Erosion

Several factors contribute to erosion.

Waterfront grass with soil erosion

Waterfront grass with soil erosion

Natural elements like waves, currents, and tides play a significant role. Human activities such as construction, landscaping, and even foot traffic can accelerate the process. Vegetation loss and poor drainage systems can also worsen erosion.

Soil erosion along river bank

Soil erosion along river bank


 

Best Practices for Erosion Control

Protecting your waterfront property from erosion involves a combination of methods.

Little Bluestem grass near a waterfront

Little Bluestem grass thriving near a waterfront

Planting native vegetation can help hold the soil together.

Native plants on waterfront hill

Native plants on waterfront hill

Grasses are the most effective type of plant to curb lakefront soil erosion. Their fibrous root systems are well adept at holding the soil in place. Buffalograss, Bushy Bluestem and Little Bluestem are three popular choices, but there are many types of grass that work well for stopping soil erosion.

Bushy Bluestem grasses in marshland at sunset

Bushy Bluestem grasses in marshland at sunset

Installing a bulkhead on your waterfront property can act as a barrier against the force of waves.

Waterfront home with bulkhead

Waterfront home with bulkhead

Lake George, New York waterfront home with stone bulkhead

Waterfront home with stone bulkhead

Consider adding riprap, which is a layer of large stones placed along the shoreline to absorb and deflect wave energy.

Lakefront home with riprap protective stone barrier

Lakefront home with riprap protective stone barrier


 

DIY Erosion Control

For those who prefer a hands-on approach, there are several DIY erosion control methods you can try.

Erosion control around pond with hay to help seeds take root

Erosion control around pond with hay to help seeds take root

Start by planting deep-rooted plants along the shoreline. These plants will help anchor the soil. Next, create a natural buffer zone by allowing grass and shrubs to grow longer near the water. This buffer can reduce the speed of runoff and capture sediment.

waterfront erosion control with trall natural grass

Waterfront erosion control with trall natural grass

Consider using biodegradable erosion control mats to provide immediate stabilization while waiting for plants to establish themselves.

Waterfront erosion control with natural jute netting to aid plant growth

Waterfront erosion control with natural jute netting to aid plant growth


 

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, erosion can be too severe for DIY measures. If you notice significant land loss or structural damage, it’s time to call in the professionals.

Lake Sinclair, Georgia retaining wall, bulkhead

They can assess the situation and recommend solutions like retaining walls, terracing, or advanced drainage systems.

Oceanfront erosion control retaining wall

Oceanfront erosion control retaining wall

Professional intervention may seem costly, but it’s a worthy investment to protect your property.

Beachfront retaining wall and stairs

Beachfront retaining wall and stairs


 

Erosion Control Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is key once you’ve set up your erosion control measures. Check your shoreline after storms to ensure your barriers are intact. Keep an eye on plant growth and replace any dead or dying plants promptly. Regularly inspect and clean drainage systems to prevent blockages.

Protecting your waterfront property from erosion is essential for preserving its value and ensuring its safety. According to the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit, coastal erosion is responsible for approximately $500 million worth of property damage and loss every year. Plus, that number continues to grow. And not every insurance company will cover the damage. Make sure you check your insurance policy and talk with your insurance provider.

 

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