Coastal Geologic Services Inc. creates coastal restoration and enhancement project designs as a core service, with over 20 years of experience. Many of these projects were initially identified by CGS during field mapping efforts and later assessed for feasibility, designed, implemented, and monitored by CGS. Our staff members possess complementary skill sets to achieve almost all aspects of nearshore restoration, and we also utilize a group of trusted sub-consultants.
CGS offers design services for green, sustainable alternatives to bulkheads that use aesthetic, non-toxic, and shore friendly approaches and materials — for both people and wildlife. These designs minimize maintenance and are typically much less expensive than traditional bulkheads.
Beach restoration and enhancement goals include:
- Habitat for forage fish spawning (the main food of salmon)
- Habitat for invertebrates, eelgrass, and refuge for fish
- Removal of toxic creosoted wood
- Aesthetics and recreation
Below is an example of beach restoration at the Sunlight Shores community, Whidbey Island, 2018/19. Click on the slider and drag left to right to see the transformation!
Living Shorelines
CGS also designs projects with the concept of Living Shorelines, designing more natural approaches to shore protection. Watch the video below to hear about how CGS is using these techniques in San Juan County, Washington (skip to 3:27 in the video).
Examples of CGS Restoration Design
It’s easy to visit examples of CGS restoration design at these parks and public lands:
| Whatcom County • Boulevard Park, Bellingham • Marine Park, Bellingham • Post Point Lagoon, Bellingham • Little Squalicum Park, Bellingham • Waypoint Park, Bellingham • Birch Bay State Park • Lighthouse Marine Park San Juan County • Sucia Island State Park King County • Cormorant Cove Park, Seattle • Seahurst Park, Seattle Island County • Ala Spit County Park • English Boom Historical Park | Skagit County • Bay View State Park • Deception Pass State Park (Bowman Bay) • Weaverling Spit • West Marchs Point Kitsap County • Pritchard Park • Strawberry Plant Park Jefferson County • Dosewallips State Park Clallam County • West End Park, Port Angeles • Three Crabs Road (WDFW) |
NOAA Explains Bulkhead Removal
A short video explaining the benefits of bulkhead removal in a beautiful and accessible way.