Coastal communities across North Carolina are facing a familiar yet intensifying challenge: how to protect a shoreline that is constantly shifting. Rising seas, stronger storms, growing development, and sensitive natural systems all influence how our communities plan for a more resilient future. As these pressures increase, more communities are turning toward nature-based solutions to strengthen their shorelines.
A New Approach to Shoreline Protection
Traditional shoreline stabilization often relied on bulkheads or seawalls. While initially effective, these structures can create long-term issues such as habitat loss, reduced beach width, and erosion on neighboring properties. Nature-based solutions provide an alternative by using natural features such as marsh creation, dune enhancement, native vegetation, and oyster reefs. These systems absorb wave energy, stabilize sediment, and adapt to changing conditions.
“Nature-based solutions allow us to think differently about how we stabilize and protect shorelines,” states WithersRavenel Planner Greg Feldman, AICP. “Instead of building vertical sea walls, we are building a living system that adapts and that shift creates long-term resilience.”
Nature-based approaches also help communities consider broader questions, including:
- How will the shoreline respond to future storm events
- Which habitats need protection for long-term ecological health
- Where might hybrid solutions offer additional stability
Using Permitting to Shape Better Planning
The Coastal Area Management Act, known as CAMA, plays a central role in how shoreline projects are reviewed and approved in North Carolina. Although many communities view permitting as a procedural requirement, it actually provides a valuable structure for identifying sensitive areas early in the planning process. Set by the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC), CAMA requires us to evaluate Areas of Environmental Concern, which often include marshes, tidal flats, dune systems, and submerged aquatic vegetation. These habitats support fisheries, water quality, and natural storm protection.
Understanding these areas at the beginning of a project helps communities choose stabilization methods that align with both environmental and infrastructure needs. By treating permitting as a planning tool rather than just a stop in the process, communities can better evaluate long-term risks, site conditions, and opportunities for nature-based or hybrid solutions. This approach encourages a more thoughtful balance of engineering, ecology, and community priorities.
In addition, a community’s CAMA Land Use Plan helps tee up shoreline projects by identifying priority shoreline segments, mapping AECs, and outlining preferred nature-based or hybrid strategies before any permit application is filed. This early guidance positions our communities to move more efficiently from planning to project design and implementation.
Protecting Built and Natural Assets
Shoreline protection is ultimately about safeguarding what communities value most. These assets often include:
- Roads, utilities, and public infrastructure
- Homes, businesses, and community facilities
At the same time, natural systems such as marshes, Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) beds, maritime forests, and beaches provide essential storm buffering and ecological benefits. Effective resilience planning recognizes that these natural resources also serve as important community infrastructure.
Maintaining Public Access in a Changing Environment
Public access has long been a defining part of coastal life in North Carolina. We want to be able to use and have fun in our coastal waters. Sea level rise and stronger storms challenge the longevity of boat launches, walkways, fishing areas, and waterfront parks. Nature-based solutions often support access more effectively by preserving public trust areas and creating adaptable environments. Communities must evaluate which access points can be reinforced, which may need relocation, and consideration of how shoreline treatments will impact recreational use over time.
A Shoreline Built for the Future
Coastal planning today requires a balance between engineered solutions, ecological stewardship, and community needs. Nature-based approaches offer a path that supports long-term stability while preserving sensitive habitats.
“Our goal is to protect what truly matters, our homes, our infrastructure, and our natural resources, while building a shoreline that can adapt and thrive for generations to come,” Feldman adds.
Resilient shorelines are not about resisting change. They are about preparing for it and creating systems that support communities well into the future.
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