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htmlText_3C0211A1_2F62_3B56_41B5_F486EEFC0DDB.html = Bagged Oyster shell was installed in two layers during the original living shoreline construction in 2010. In the first layer, bags were oriented horizontally, but were oriented vertically in the second layer. The second layer stopped at a lower elevation than the first layer. Native marsh and upper transitional plants were also planted.
Maintenance was required at this site in 2022 due to the dislodging of some existing oyster bags from storm activity and dock repair. Flexamat® was added, which is a type of erosion control mat utilized for stabilizing slopes and shorelines. It consists of concrete blocks locked together and embedded into a high-strength geogrid.
Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant collaborated with Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve to monitor this living shoreline site pre- and post-construction. Researchers collected data on oyster reef population dynamics, fish habitat usage, and oyster reef and plant distribution, densities, and lengths.
Oyster reefs are considered essential fish habitat and nursery areas. They support birds, marine mammals, and other wildlife. Organisms that benefit from this living shoreline include the Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica), the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus), Atlantic croaker, oyster toadfish (Opsanus tao), spotted sea trout (Cynoscion nebulosus), mud crab (Panopeus herbstii), red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), and more!
This pilot project was an important step in understanding how to build living shorelines in Georgia, where the expansive tidal range and steep slopes present unique challenges for stabilization. The project’s goals were to establish a demonstration site, explore and share effective techniques for shoreline stabilization, and build capacity through partnerships and community involvement.
Project partners on the original construction project included The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the State of Georgia, NOAA, The Environmental Protection Agency, Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve, and UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant.