The Watershed Center focuses time and resources on better understanding shoreline erosion processes and ecologically functional erosion control concepts. We advocate for our local, state, and federal partners to research and demonstrate forward-thinking approaches to erosion that preserve natural shorelines. We work with coastal communities to implement resilient planning principles and strive to be a resource to property owners, developers, and local units of government as they plan shoreline projects and set coastal community visions.

Because of the immense ecological value of having a natural shoreline and nearshore area, The Watershed Center believes the best long-term solution to manage shoreline erosion is to build and/or move infrastructure away from the shoreline. If this is not possible and a revetment project is needed to protect structures or public infrastructure, we advocate for incorporating biodegradable elements and deep-rooted, native plants. For property owners with no structures or infrastructure in jeopardy, the best ecological solution is living with a bit of erosion during high water years and consolidated sand and rocks will return when water levels recede.

For inland lake shorelines that typically encounter less erosive energy than the Great Lakes, bioengineering practices that rely on deep-rooted, native plants and biodegradable materials such as coconut fiber logs are a great option for dealing with shoreline erosion. Because lakeshore habitat and physical lake complexity are major stressors for lakes in Michigan, it is critical that we preserve vegetation at the land-water interface.