Document Type
Report
Department/Program
Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Publication Date
7-2006
Abstract
Using tidal marshes and other vegetated treatments for upland erosion control has been an accepted practice for years, yet the scientific understanding and established guidelines for this approach are limited. This survey was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of existing marsh toe protection structures, a particular type of erosion control treatment associated with tidal marshes on Chesapeake Bay shorelines. Field evaluations were conducted at 36 sites in 6 localities on the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck of Virginia. General dimensions of each structure were recorded and observations made of erosion evidence, structural integrity, construction access impacts, and adjacent landscape settings. Most of the projects provide effective erosion protection for the tidal marsh and adjacent upland bank. Twenty projects (55%) were also determined to be effective as living shoreline treatments based on tidal marsh condition and because the riparian and wetland vegetation cover was interconnected. Common design standards from these projects have been incorporated into advisory guidelines.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21220/V5T30V
Keywords
Shore protection -- Virginia; Shorelines; Beach erosion
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Funding
Final report to the Keith Campbell Foundation for the Environment, Inc.
Recommended Citation
Duhring, K., Barnard, T. A., Center for Coastal Resources Managment., Hardaway, C., & Shoreline Studies Program. (2006) A survey of the effectiveness of existing marsh toe protection structures in Virginia. Virginia Institute of Marine Science, William & Mary. https://doi.org/10.21220/V5T30V
