Erosion is a natural part of the earth’s lifecycle, but lakeside property owners know that its effects can be drastic. As the water gradually breaks down and washes away land, owners are left with decreased property value and degraded plant and animal habitats.
But shoreline deterioration isn’t just visually unappealing — it’s also expensive to repair after the damage has been done.
Fortunately, there are effective provisions you can put in place now to protect your lakeside property before erosion does any lasting damage.
What is Shoreline Restoration, and Why is it Necessary?
Shoreline restoration is a method of using natural elements as a buffer to protect your shoreline, properties, and structures from the effects of erosion. This protects property owners from major damage to their land and the natural elements that are a part of it.
According to the Watershed Council, losing just one foot of shore on a lakefront property can amount to more than $9,000 in decreased property value. And due to the sheer number of lakes in the state, Minnesotans are especially susceptible to erosion’s harmful effects on their properties.
As the world’s climate continues to undergo drastic changes, it’s critical to invest in shoreline restoration to protect your property from these weather-related events. One of the most effective solutions for shoreline restoration is a rip rap retaining wall.
What is a Rip Rap Retaining Wall?
A rip rap retaining wall is made up of pieces of rocks, usually granite or limestone, packed along a shoreline to create a barrier between the land and water.
Rip rap retaining walls are durable, long-lasting, and natural-looking. And regular maintenance will keep them strong for many decades, making them an excellent investment choice for those wanting to protect and maintain their lakeside property.
With a rip rap wall in place, you can rest assured that your property and structures are protected from all types of erosion, including water, wave, and ice erosion.
Benefits of Rip Rap Walls for Shoreline Restoration
1. They are Easy to Maintain
The walls are simple to install and generally low maintenance. In most cases, you only need to check them annually or after major storms for displaced rocks or slumping.
2. They are Durable
Rip rap walls can last for an average of 70-100 years, making them durable and long-lasting shoreline restoration options.
3. They are Eco-friendly
This natural shoreline restoration option protects natural vegetation and existing animal habitats on your property. And in addition to looking natural, it can also promote new plant growth as well.
4. They are Cost-effective
These walls are cheaper to install and last much longer than many other erosion control forms.
5. They Don’t Just Divert the Damage
Unlike other erosion control methods, rip rap retaining walls absorb wave energy as opposed to diverting it to cause damage elsewhere.
6. They Work!
Rip rap retaining walls are extremely effective at preventing erosion, but they also have many other benefits including protecting marine wildlife, keeping creatures such as muskrats from tunneling into your property, and — of course — looking great and increasing your property’s value.
Start Your Rip Rap Retaining Wall This Winter
Shoreline restoration is just one of the many services offered by Rock Solid — and we can make it happen, even in the winter months. Our equipment was built to travel on ice, allowing us to work from all angles. So don’t wait until summer to check shoreline restoration off your list!
Let our team of experts custom-design an erosion solution to perfectly compliment your property. Give us a call at Call us at 763-398-0739 or send us a message!
