Shoreline Erosion Control and Habitat Research Project

Longwood University’s Hull Springs Farm secured a $40,500 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation) to assess how living shoreline techniques could be utilized to control erosion, while also preserving or restoring shoreline habitat that supports shorebirds, juvenile fish, tidal marsh, submerged aquatic vegetation, and other plant and wildlife species. 

Limbing trees near the shoreline

Living shoreline techniques offer a biologically sensitive alternative to bulkheads and other “shore hardening” structures, which are expensive, temporary and damaging to shoreline habitat. This research and educational project involves the expertise of many partners, including Longwood University, Virginia Institute of Marine Science (of the College of William and Mary), Virginia Commonwealth University, Northern Neck Soil and Water Conservation District, Northern Neck Planning District Commission, Burke Environmental Associates LLC, Clean Virginia Waterways, and community volunteers.

Presentation on living shoreline designs are held for local residents

The project will result in an inventory of the existing shoreline for Hull Springs Farm as well as the entire Lower Machodoc Creek.  Potential locations for a variety of shoreline management treatments (including living shorelines) will be identified, and workshops and educational seminars on living shoreline designs will be held for local residents.