Property owner wins approval for living-shoreline with FlexiMat after VIMS review and public discussion
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Summary
The wetlands board approved a living-shoreline plan using articulated concrete block matting (FlexiMat/Lehi Mat) and plantings for a steep, eroding bank on Taylors Creek after agency review from VIMS and extended discussion with the applicant’s agent.
The Lancaster County Wetlands Board approved a living-shoreline application for property owner Bob Sledd, represented by Chris Davis of Native Shorelines, to stabilize an eroding high bank on the western branch of Taylors Creek using a mix of articulated concrete block matting (branded in the record as FlexiMat/Lehi Mat), low stone reefs and marsh plantings.
Chris Davis told the board the project uses FlexiMat at a steep point, with plantings of Spartina patens at the toe and marsh vegetation designed to establish through the mat. Davis said the design was intended to combine structural protection and living elements: “It’s really the best of both worlds. You get revetment, so no erosion, and you get the vegetation provided by the marsh,” he told the board.
Staff included a VIMS review in the packet. Lyle Varnell of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science wrote that the modified proposal reduces direct impacts to non-vegetated tidal wetlands but cautioned that articulated concrete block matting can significantly inhibit marsh vegetation establishment in some settings and recommended considering less-inhibitive, non-structural alternatives where feasible. Varnell also noted local historic shoreline retreat rates and suggested grading alternatives in sheltered sections.
Davis disputed portions of Varnell’s critique in part, saying the product has case studies and installations that show vegetation growth through the blocks and that the mat has survived high-energy storms. Jeff Corbin of Native Shorelines noted state guidance that living shorelines should be used when feasible and that where a living shoreline alone is not possible, projects should incorporate as many living components as practicable.
Board members asked for follow-up inspections if approved; one board member suggested the board revisit the site in future to evaluate long-term vegetation success. After discussion and public comment (including support from nearby resident Rick Wineland), a board member moved to approve the project as presented; the motion was seconded and carried.
The approved JPA included articulated concrete block matting, 384 linear feet of matting along a graded bank, 116 feet of living shoreline plantings, 80 linear feet of small break reefs, sand nourishment and wetland plantings; the VMRC application number in the packet was 25-0401.
