Engagement and Collaboration - Examples from the Field: The Living Shorelines Approach

The Living Shorelines Approach treats the environment and people as an interconnected system and focuses on the importance of the design to achieve both ecological and landowner goals. This approach considers the Coastal Zone... [ view full abstract ]

The Living Shorelines Approach treats the environment and people as an interconnected system and focuses on the importance of the design to achieve both ecological and landowner goals. This approach considers the Coastal Zone in its entirety and demonstrates that we all have a key role to play in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

This presentation will describe the design of a Living Shoreline from an ecological landscaping point of view. This method of design reaffirms the position of humans within the ecosystem. By taking a hands-on approach, we encourage landowners to mimic the riparian zone and all the upland systems. Rosmarie will discuss the components of Living Shorelines: From the wettest places at the toe of the slope to the dry upland.

The benefits include:  

• Assessing and understanding erosion
• Mitigation of damage caused by sea level rise, flooding, and overland flow
• Creation of diverse habitats within the Coastal Zone
• Developing areas for play and human enjoyment
• Creation of opportunities for environmental education

When people are deeply connected to Nature, they are more resilient to change and become stewards of Nature. As individuals and members of communities, we all have a significant role to play in mitigating the impacts of climate change.