Living Shorelines

A living shoreline is a form of coastline restoration and protection that incorporates natural materials, such as oyster shells, rocks, and native marsh grasses. These types of projects can reduce erosion and protect property by stabilizing the shoreline and dissipating wave energy. They also provide beneficial habitat for local wildlife, improve water quality, and resist storm damage better than hardened shoreline structures like bulkheads or seawalls.

Living shorelines can combine plantings with structural elements. Many living shoreline projects in Louisiana involve stacking bags of recycled oyster shell in a row, parallel with the shore to reduce wave energy. Another method uses cement domes with holes cut into the sides, which act as breakwaters and habitat for wildlife. Oysters will sometimes attach to both structure types, creating habitats that resemble naturally occurring oyster reefs.

Available Resources

• A Homeowners Guide to Living Shoreline Permits in Coastal Louisiana
• Louisiana Living Shoreline Resource Guide