Nature-based Shoreline Stabilization

Sea level rise and intensifying storms are an increasing threat to coastlines. Low lying areas like the Florida Keys and southeast Florida are especially vulnerable to changing conditions. The typical solution of increased armoring along the shore can degrade coastal habitats and reduce biodiversity.

Nature-based Solutions can Help

Nature-based solutions can help ameliorate the negative effects of flooding and erosion. Living shorelines use natural materials like plants, rocks and sand to stabilize the shore. When using only natural materials is not adequate, built infrastructure can often be enhanced with native vegetation and other materials, thus providing shoreline stabilization while safeguarding coastal habitats.

Southeast Florida Mapping Application

The mapping application on this site visualizes the suitability of southeast Florida’s shoreline for nature-based solutions. This assessment provides the starting point for planning more effective and ecologically sound shoreline protection. It identifies potential areas where natural habitats can stabilize shorelines or can be integrated into shoreline reinforcement infrastructure. Two studies by Florida Atlantic University, one for the Florida Keys and one for the estuarine coastline of southeast Florida, assess the feasibility of implementation of different types of nature-based stabilization. These studies used the region’s physical characteristics and experts’ opinions to develop an exposure index for shoreline segments. Different shorelines are suitable for different types of stabilization and are depicted in the mapping application.

Photos below show examples of different types of shoreline stabilization involving both native vegetation and constructed elements.