Join Emma Polhemus, a Maine Conservation Corps member hosted by Midcoast Conservancy, for a hands-on workshop focused on the use of nature-based strategies for shoreline erosion.
Nature-based strategies work with the strengths of nature, from roots to shoots to leaves, to stabilize eroding soils and shorelines with plants and biodegradable materials. Unlike stone riprap and other “gray infrastructure,” nature-based strategies also preserve or even enhance important shoreline habitat for wildlife. At this hands-on workshop, we’ll use an eroding bank at Whitefield Salmon Preserve on the West Branch of the Sheepscot River as a case study to talk about how nature-based strategies can be personalized to fit different environments and causes of erosion.
We’ll also work together to demonstrate some best management practices like water bars, swales, and live stakes on-site. Over time, these practices will slow down runoff and restore healthy native vegetation to the area to keep sediment and pollutants from entering the river.
There will be plenty of chances to get your hands dirty, but everyone is welcome to participate at their own comfort level, whether that be jumping into digging water bars and planting vegetation, or simply coming to listen in and chat with Emma and others working on nature-based strategies across the state.
For questions, please reach out to Emma at emma@midcoastconservancy.org.
This is a free event, but registration is encouraged.