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Center for Coastal Resources Management

Marsh Toe Revetment

  • Marsh Toe Revetment - Recovery
    Marsh Toe Revetment - Proper Placement   This marsh toe revetment effectively reduces wave energy at a moderate energy site to allow for recovery of marsh vegetation into previously non-vegetated pockets. Note the structure placement away from but close to the marsh edge.  
  • Marsh Toe Revetment - Tidal Pond
    Marsh Toe Revetment - Tidal Pond   A marsh toe revetment was used in this case to reduce erosion and wave energy inside a small tidal pond. Note the small tidal gap and low height which is regularly overtopped to allow for tidal inundation into and out of the pond, while the structure reduces wave energy inside the pond.  
  • Marsh Toe Revetment - Tidal Gaps
    Marsh Toe Revetment - Offset Gaps   This marsh toe revetment includes offset tidal gaps, which do not allow as much wave energy into the marsh interior as straight gaps  
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... at Natural Marsh

An existing marsh that is functioning as shore protection can be maintained with a freestanding, trapezoidal-shaped structure. Marsh toe revetments can be used where existing marshes have eroding edges and scarps, or where minor upland bank erosion is present in spite of the marsh being present.

Suitable Sites
  • Existing wide tidal marsh greater than 15 feet
  • Marsh edge erosion or minor upland bank erosion
  • Very shallow water near marsh edge with hard sand bottom
  • Construction access for installation is feasible without excessive marsh disturbance
Guidelines for Marsh Toe Revetment
  • Marsh toe revetments should be offset from the existing marsh edge near the mean low water elevation.  Leave the non-vegetated zone between the marsh edge and mean low water uncovered.  
  • Strategically place tidal gaps at natural marsh channels or if the total length of marsh toe revetment is greater than 100 ft.
  • The height should be near mean high water in low energy settings to allow regular wave overtopping
  • The height can be raised 1-2 ft above mean high water in moderate energy settings or where the marsh is less than 15 feet wide and the marsh width cannot be increased. 
  • Construction mats should be used to cross through adjacent marsh, all material stockpiles and equipment storage should be in the upland area.