Your cottage is a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, if your haven is nestled by a body of water, it's crucial to safeguard the shoreline from erosion. Not only does shoreline erosion disrupt the local ecosystem, but over time, it can also compromise the structural integrity of your buildings and lead to costly repairs. To protect the peace and beauty of your cottage and its surroundings, consider these tips to prevent shoreline erosion.

What is shoreline erosion?
Shoreline erosion is a natural process in which soil is gradually displaced from the edges of rivers, lakes, and oceans. Human activities and environmental factors are known to speed up this process.

What causes shoreline erosion?
Several factors can worsen shoreline erosion, but here are some key contributors:
 

1. Ice build-up. When the water freezes during winter, sheets of ice can scrape the shore and wear away the soil and vegetation. This process worsens when water levels are high, and winters are cold and prolonged.
2. Strong waves. If your cottage is by a body of water with large waves, or if your neighbours frequently make waves from their watercraft, your shoreline is at a higher risk of erosion.
3. Removing vegetation. Many people prefer a neat and manicured shoreline, but removing essential vegetation, wild plants, and trees can leave your shoreline vulnerable and speed up erosion.
4. Seawalls. Although seawalls used to be a popular method to prevent erosion, they can actually redirect and amplify the force of waves, making erosion worse in the long run.

How can you prevent shoreline erosion?
You can reduce the risk of shoreline erosion around your cottage by taking the following steps:
 

1. Create a no-mow zone. If your cottage has a grassy lawn extending to the water, refrain from mowing the last 3 metres along the shoreline. This allows deeply rooted grass to grow, which helps stabilize the soil.
2. Preserve native aquatic plants. Even though water weeds may seem unpleasant to swim through, they play a crucial role in maintaining a strong and healthy shoreline. Avoid removing these plants from the water, and consider planting more native vegetation if your shoreline lacks plant life.
3. Keep large trees. While everyone enjoys a nice, clear view of the water from their cottage, removing trees along the shoreline may speed up erosion. Trees absorb excess water runoff, and their strong roots help maintain the structural integrity of the surrounding soil.
4. Install riprap revetment. Unlike seawalls, which can't entirely prevent erosion, riprap revetment can make a significant impact. A riprap is a sloped layer of rock that acts as a barrier to absorb wave energy and protect shorelines. Always hire a professional to ensure proper installation.

Your cottage offers an excellent opportunity to get out and connect with nature. By following these tips, you can protect your shoreline, support the environment, and ensure your waterfront property remains structurally sound for generations.

If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-615-9329 to review your existing seasonal property insurance policy. If you’re not insured with OTIP and are shopping for seasonal property insurance, call us at 1-833-494-0085 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!