Which Shoreline Approach Would Work for My Property?
Result: Full Beach
Gradual sloping properties with a sufficient building setbacks provide several opportunities for lakeshore restoration. Full beach restoration is the optimal approach for restoring fish and wildlife habitat.
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| Design: The Watershed Company, Photo: City of Seattle | Photo: City of Seattle |
Beach restoration involves removing the bulkhead, grading the shoreline to a stable slope, and adding appropriate gravel and plants.
- A stable slope is generally 7:1 or flatter (7 horizontal feet for every 1 vertical foot), although slopes as steep as 4:1 can be stable.
- New beaches should be created using clean, rounded gravel 1/8" to 2" in size.
- You may need to add fill every 5-10 years.
Other Lakeshore Approaches to Consider
If you would like to maintain some of the existing bulkhead, or you are not ready to commit to a full beach, you can still improve the shoreline habitat by
Regardless of which approach you choose, Shoreline Planting is appropriate for every property, and will improve lakeshore habitat for young Chinook salmon.
Want more information? Check out the guidebook: Green Shorelines: Bulkhead Alternatives for a Healthier Lake Washington.