Green Shores
The City of Courtenay has adopted the Green Shores method to repair shoreline erosion. This approach focuses on sustainable techniques that protect the environment while addressing erosion issues.
In 2016, repairs and site restoration were completed at two locations in south Courtenay:
- Riverway Walkway near 29th Street
- Sandpiper Drive
The Green Shores method
July 12, 2016 media release: Shoreline Repairs Planned for South Courtenay
The Green Shores method preserves and restores physical processes, enhances shoreline habitat, and reduces pollution to the aquatic environment. In practice it may involve reshaping beach slopes to make them more stable, partially embedding large logs in the beach and securing them with underground anchors, wire rope and ballast boulders. These logs help absorb wave energy, trap sediment and create opportunities for vegetation growth, The retained sediment can also provide spawning habitat for forage fish.
For more details:
- Read the July 12, 2016 media release: Shoreline repairs planned for south Courtenay
- Read the Environmental consultant's report [PDF - 332 KB]
- Learn more about Green Shores, visit the Stewardship Centre for BC website
Green Shores restoration: before and after comparison