Shoreline Stabilization

Protecting the shorelines and streambanks of the Tennessee River and its tributaries protects water quality, wildlife and natural beauty.

The following fact sheets are designed to help owners of streambank or shoreline property create landscaping plans that not only enhance their property but also protect water resources. Trees and other vegetation help reduce erosion by holding soil in place, protect water quality by filtering sediments and pollutants, provide wildlife habitat and cover for fish and create scenic beauty along the water’s edge.

Using Native Vegetation

Introduces the fact sheet series and previews ways of using native plants to protect streambanks and shorelines.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Benefits of Riparian Zones

Offers details about riparian zones and their benefits to property owners and the environment. Discusses exotic and invasive species and problems associated with establishing lawns to the water’s edge.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Assessing Your Property

Describes how to develop a base map for documenting your existing site conditions.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Designing Your Landscape

Uses the base map you developed while assessing your property to determine your objectives and develop a riparian restoration plan.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Selecting Native Plants

This list of native plants was selected based on various regions and habitats within the Tennessee Valley region, and they are the most likely to provide aesthetic, wildlife and stabilization benefits to shorelines and streambanks.
View list of native plants (PDF)

Landscaping Alternatives

Shows three restoration options for one site to illustrate flexibility in meeting property owner objectives.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Understanding Erosion

Gives a nontechnical introduction to causes and effects of erosion along streams, rivers and reservoirs.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Using Stabilization Techniques

Includes a nontechnical overview of options available to stabilize an existing erosion problem.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Preparing the Site

Describes three possible existing site conditions and options on how to create a riparian zone.
Fact sheet (PDF)

Planting and Maintaining Your Native Landscape

Describes planting methods for different types of plants and maintenance that will be needed to ensure plant survival.
Fact sheet (PDF)