Multisolving Policy Library
Goldbug Living Shoreline
(pdf)
Since 2016 | Mount Pleasant, SC | The Nature Conservancy
Project Goals
- Display co-benefits of oyster restoration
- Alleviate flooding
- Prevent erosion
- Restore marine life habitats
FLOWER is a visual way to represent a suite of co-benefits, explore here
FOOD & WATER
JOBS & ASSETS
HEALTH, WELLBEING, & SAFETY
CONNECTION
RESILIENCE
Resilience Case Study: Goldbug Living Shoreline
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) worked with local groups to complete the Goldbug Island Living Shoreline near Sullivan’s Island in 2016.
Annual flood days in Charleston, South Carolina have increased due to rising sea levels and extreme precipitation events. This 240-foot long living shoreline made of blocks, pallets, and oyster shells illustrates one way of addressing tidal flooding.
Between 2016 and 2018, the visible high tide vegetation line moved out 30 to 70 feet from the shore, indicating increased stability and protection against higher tides.
Living Shoreline Oyster Reef Results
Leadership & Replication
Initiated by TNC, a Climate Adaptation Fund grant from the Wildlife Conservation Society funded the project. TNC has also installed living shorelines across the United States, including 8 in South Carolina since 2009.
The Living Shorelines Academy provides a collection of databases listing these and other installations across the US, online training modules, and a practitioner directory.