Bank Grading

Bank Grading - Before An example of the bank grading process includes (A) a high sand bluff in a natural condition;

Bank Grading - During (B) heavy equipment access to grade the slope with removal of material to an upland site and/or placement of suitable material into the adjacent waterway;

Bank Grading - During (C) temporary erosion and sediment control methods prior to landscape restoration;

Bank Grading - After and (D) a landscape design for the graded slope that includes deep-rooted grasses, shrubs and small trees adapted to local coastal conditions.

Bank Grading - Vegetation Landscape designs for graded banks may require extensive planting and maintenance until established, but the restored vegetation buffer will provide sustainable erosion protection, water quality and habitat services.

Bank Grading - Shade Successful bank grading projects will anticipate slope conditions after grading and the potential for vegetation growth. In this case, the growth of slope vegetation is compromised by excessive shading due to shoreline orientation and the steepness of the graded slope.

The objective of bank grading is to reduce the steepness of the bank slope and decrease erosion caused by waves striking the bank toe. A more gradual slope allows for wave “run-up” and dissipation of wave energy and there is a better foundation for vegetation growth. Graded banks should be stabilized with native plants that hold soil in place, intercept surface and sub-surface runoff and absorb energy from storm waves. This process can be combined with planted marshes or erosion control structures for increased effectiveness.

Suitable Sites

Active erosion at top and toe of bank
Low cleared banks with lawns
Unstable high banks with undercut or falling trees
Unstable banks adjacent to tidal marshes
No adjacent bulkheads, revetments or upland improvements in close proximity
Plenty of sunlight will reach graded slope

Guidelines for Bank Grading

Consider grading only the top or toe of the slope to minimize land disturbance
Consult with local Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act authorities, Water Quality Impact Assessment and replacement trees and other landscaping may be required
Coordinate with adjacent property owners in advance, gradual transitions to adjacent grades may be needed
Construction access must be available, temporary stockpile areas may be needed
The target slope should be as flat and gradual as possible to support vegetation growth and no steeper than a 3:1 slope
Determine if bank sediments might be suitable for beneficial shoreline uses
Re-direct and manage upland runoff away from the graded bank
Use temporary erosion control mats, blankets and fiber logs for stabilization until vegetation is established
Landscape restoration design should incorporate native plants suited to local soil, sunlight, salt and wind conditions; non-native plants should be adapted to similar conditions