Flathead River Shoreline

Forestoration was asked by this property owner to develop and implement an erosion control plan for his farm along the lower Flathead River. Yearly flooding and motor boat traffic were eroding the embankment along the river causing a loss of property and degradation of wildlife habitat and water quality. Using a combination of native plants and bio-degradable erosion control materials, such as coir fabric and logs, we were able to successfully establish vegetation along the river.  As the plants mature and the root systems grow, native plants are able to mitigate erosion and hold the soils in place even when inundated by floodwaters. Weed mats were also secured around plants in areas where invasive Quackgrass was present and could suffocate young plants. Our nursery, Center for Native Plants, provided all the plant material used.