Project Design Assistance and Plant Nurseries
Eroding shorelines usually develop
over long periods of time, and severe situations can be complex, time-consuming, and expensive to remedy. Before
jumping right into the installation stage, invest your valuable time and money in a well thought-out project
design. Many resources are available, including this Web site, to help you become familiar with the array of
shoreline treatment alternatives that are available, as well as the advantages, disadvantages, and relative
costs of each. However, if you're not sure about all the important engineering aspects of your shoreline zone
(e.g., soil quality and structure, subsurface water flows, grading plans, and permits) or if you want advice
selecting shoreline plants that will do best in your site conditions, consider consulting with an individual or
company that specializes in shoreline and wetland restoration projects. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
maintains a listing of engineering and
environmental consulting firms that may have expertise relating to wetland and shoreline modifications. At
the end of the consulting firms document is a listing of wetland plant and seed nurseries that serve the Chicago metropolitan area. Many
of these consultants and plant nurseries have their own Web site that includes an overview of services provided,
representative projects, and plant species lists and availability. Simply type the company's name into your
favorite Web search engine, and in most cases you'll be quickly directed to the company's home page.
