Delaware to host 2-day training on living shorelines

First Staters hoping to learn more and become experts on living shorelines – a natural shoreline made of plants, sand, or rock that protects and stabilizes the coast – have an opportunity to do so at the end of the month.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) is offering a two-day training event Tuesday, March 25, and Wednesday, March 26 for individuals interested in learning about living shorelines.

The in-person event will be held at the DNREC Lewes Field Office from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, which is located at 901 Pilottown Road.

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The training, presented in partnership with the Delaware Living Shorelines Committee, aims to introduce participants to the process and components of living shorelines—a natural, environmentally-friendly method for preventing shoreline erosion and supporting coastal habitats.

The event is geared towards scientists, engineers, landscape professionals, marine contractors, government officials, and students.

Living shorelines event schedule

On the first day, attendees will explore the ecological foundations of living shorelines, focusing on shoreline issues, the variety of shoreline solutions, and the plants and animals that thrive in these coastal habitats.

The second day will dive deeper into the technical aspects of living shorelines, including materials, design techniques, and the permitting process. Participants will also gain hands-on experience with field visits and real-world applications.

Instructors from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, private consulting firms, and non-profit organizations will lead the sessions.

DNREC’s Wetland Monitoring and Assessment program will represent the department’s involvement in the training.

The data obtained by DNREC from assessing wetlands is being used to design wetland restoration plans for watersheds and to better understand how certain land use decisions affect the health of our wetlands.

Living shorelines utilize natural materials—such as native plants, oyster shells, and biodegradable coir logs—to mitigate erosion and flood impacts.

These sustainable solutions provide protection for coastal communities while also creating vital habitats for local wildlife.

The training costs $35, which includes coffee, snacks, lunch, and an educational binder.

Due to limited space, the event is capped at 26 participants, and attendees must commit to attending both days.

For registration and more information, click here.