A combination of the following solutions are recommended to prevent bluff erosion along the shores of Ozaukee and Milwaukee counties.
1.) Coppicing
A newly coppiced tree
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Coppicing is a form of woodland management that involves cutting down trees in a manner that allows the stump to make new growth instead of dying. This not only provides bluff landowners a way to improve their view of the lake, but also prevents the loss of root systems that are vital to slope stability. Removing large tree cover also helps promote the growth of grasses and shrubs that further reinforce the shear strength of the bluff's soil.
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The same coppiced tree after one year
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2.) Vegetated Terracing
SmartSlope (c) design by Furbish
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Vegetated terraces can be installed over parts or the entirety of a bluff to prevent erosion. Terraces are comprised of levels of dirt or sand held in by reinforcement panels. The various levels are then planted with indigenous plant species that lock the soil into place. Plants typically do not grow easily on steep bluffs, so terracing is especially useful because it creates space for plants to take root. Terracing also slows the rate of stormwater runoff down the bluff and creates more area for water to be absorbed and transpired by plants. This removal of moisture from the bluff improves overall stability.
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A terraced bluff
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3.) Branch Box Breakwater
Branch box breakwaters can be used as a form of shoreline protection by blocking waves from hitting the bottom of a bluff. They are low cost and can be installed by homeowners to help protect without installing a concrete retaining wall. These are also an Eco-friendly option as a form of shoreline protection. The downside is that these will not hold in the case of a large storm front.
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4.) Coconut Fiber Logs
Coconut fiber logs are also another Eco-friendly option as a method of shoreline protection. They can be installed at the base of a slope and protect from wave action and toe erosion. They are made from fibers and will promote vegetation growth. Similar to branch box breakwaters these will not withstand a large storm waves.
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