Living shorelines use plants or other natural, “living” elements to stabilize coasts.

The city of Folly Beach has recently contracted with an engineering firm to install a living shoreline at Folly River Park. Four methods will be used to restore the shoreline adjacent to Folly River Park, which will help filter and clean the water. The vegetation included in a living shoreline beautifies the area, while keeping the ecosystem healthy for the environment.

Living shorelines prevent erosion and ensure the coast stays fit for recreational purposes. They are also much cheaper than structural shorelines and less of an eye sore. Living shorelines are important because they act as a buffer from coastal storms, helping protect infrastructure and regulate damage.

Living Shorelines

Measuring the escarpment during a site visit

Once complete, the new living shoreline will be able to be viewed from the dock at Folly River Park.

To read more about living shorelines, click here.

For an interactive guide on living shorelines, click here.