The Assateague Living Shoreline Project was conceived as an opportunity to implement a dynamic living shoreline in a high-energy environment to address erosion, enhance habitat and provide user-friendly access to the shallow waters of Sinepuxent Bay. The team approached the design with an eye towards the utilization of materials which would blend into the native landscape and maintain the natural aesthetics as well as provide enhanced nesting habitat for horseshoe crabs, terrapin and shorebirds. It was also key to provide access to the shoreline for kayakers, kite surfers and environmental education programs which often seine in the nearshore area. The design was developed using headland structures to “pin” together the shoreline form and maintain a shoreline profile which is partly vegetated and partially open intertidal beach. The project was completed in 2018 and is currently being monitored to access performance.
Presenters:
Kevin M. Smith, Executive Director, Maryland Coastal Bays Program
Chris Becraft, Partner, Underwood & Associates, Inc
Wesley Gould, Natural Resources Manager, Maryland Department of Natural Resources