Stone, coir logs and deep-rooted native plants that stop pond and stream banks from washing away.
Pond banks that slump and wash away are a common sight. Wind-driven waves, runoff, animals and mowers wear down the edge, leaving bare soil, muddy water and a ragged look.
We stabilize shorelines with a mix of methods that suits the site. That may include regrading to a gentler slope, setting riprap or boulder toe protection, installing coir logs and planting deep-rooted natives. The goal is a bank that holds in storms and looks natural. We also look at the causes, such as runoff entering at one point, livestock access or a mower running too close to the edge, so the repair is not undone by the next heavy rain.
Steep slopes, bare soil and constant wave action undercut the toe of the bank. Once the toe is lost, the slope above slides into the water.
Stone protects the toe where waves hit. Plants and coir hold the upper bank. Using both gives strength and a natural look.
Work along streams and larger lakes may require approvals. We tell you early what is likely to apply to your site.
A strip of tall native plants along the shore filters runoff, shades the water edge and holds the bank. It also reduces mowing.
Drag the handle to compare.
BeforeAfterToe and slope protected.
Riprap and boulders where needed.
Natives hold the soil.
Biodegradable support.
Gentler slope shapes.
Less mud entering the pond.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
SituationFarm and Large PropertiesPonds for stock, fishing, irrigation and views on acreage: what size to build, how to keep them healthy…Learn more 
SituationWildlife FriendlyFrogs, birds and dragonflies love a thoughtful pond. Here is how to welcome them and how to handle…Learn more 
Material guideStone and BouldersLimestone, fieldstone, river rock and flagstone: which stone looks right, how it behaves in water and how it…Learn more Pick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.
Tell us what you have in mind and send photos of your yard. We plan the visit so we arrive ready.
We walk the yard, discuss size, style and sound and mark the shape on the ground.
You get a clear written price, and we agree on a day and an arrival window.
Excavation with shelves and a stable slope, with protection for your lawn and a call to 811 first.
Liner, plumbing, filtration, stone and plants installed with careful attention to the hidden parts.
Water treated, flow tuned and a walk-through with you before we leave.
Native sedges, rushes, switchgrass and shrubs with deep roots are good choices.
Not when it is set well and planted. Mixed stone and plants look natural.
Leaving a planted strip along the edge protects the bank and reduces algae.
Streams and larger lakes may require approval. Ponds on private land often do not, and we help you check.
A planted strip of native plants along the water edge that protects the bank and filters runoff.
Farm PondsLarger ponds for livestock, irrigation, fishing and scenery, built with proper clay cores, spillways and stable banks.Explore 
Rain Gardens and DrainageRain gardens, dry creek beds and swales that turn runoff into a beautiful feature instead of a soggy…Explore 
Spillways and OverflowsPlanned overflow paths that carry storm water safely past your pond, falls and banks instead of washing them…Explore 
Wildlife PondsPonds shaped for frogs, dragonflies, birds and pollinators, with native plants, shallow edges and no fuss.Explore Tell us about the job and we will call you back quickly.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
