ANERR to offer Living Shoreline Workshop and Coastal Friendly Landscaping Tips

~Learn the science behind living shorelines vs. harden shorelines, plus plants suitable for coastal landscapes~

Apalachicola, FL– The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) will offer a workshop on Living Shorelines in conjunction with the St. George Island Plantation Homeowners’ Association on May 15, 2015, from 9:30-11:30 am. Coastal erosion is a natural process–currents, wave action, wind and storms continually alter the shoreline. Seawalls and riprap may seem like a permanent solution, however, they can often increase erosion especially on neighboring properties. Living shorelines use plants, oyster shells and other materials to protect the shoreline. A living shoreline maintains valuable habitats that stabilize shorelines, filter runoff, protect the surrounding intertidal environment, increase water quality and create habitat for aquatic and terrestrial species.

Zach Schang with the Northwest Florida Aquatic Preserve office in Pensacola will be the speaker. As the Living Shoreline Project Manager for the Northwest Florida Aquatic Preserve Office, Zach has designed, organized, and managed the installation of small to medium scale shoreline restoration projects throughout Northwest Florida, with an emphasis on using natural living shorelines.  He also coordinates volunteer work events, participates in a variety of educational and outreach activities and collects and interprets data associated with the monitoring of installed restoration projects.  Zach has been involved with over 40 Living Shoreline projects to date.  

Erik Lovestrand, UF/IFAS Franklin County Extension Director, will speak about coastal friendly landscaping practices that can save homeowners time, frustration and money. He will also share information about plants that can survive in a beach environment and help stabilize property. For more info please contact Anita Grove at 850-670-7708 or Anita.Grove@dep.state.fl.us or Margo Posten (850) 670-7719 or Margaret.Posten@dep.state.fl.us  

WHAT: ​Living Shoreline Workshop, plus Coastal Friendly Landscaping Tips

WHEN: ​Friday, May 15th, 2015, 9:30-11:30 am

WHERE: ​St George Island Plantation Homeowners’ Association Clubhouse - 1712 Magnolia Road, St George Island, FL 32328 Free. Registration is REQUIRED