Continue to next page
Introduction
Reading Your Shoreline
Identifying Your Objectives
Designing Your Shoreline
Implementing Your Project

Protect

Prevent Disturbances
Plant Native Species

Plant Native Species: Live Stakes & Wattles

Wattles is an Old English term that's over 800 years old. Fascine is a late 17th century French term and both of these words refer to the use of intertwining live branches to build revetments along shorelines.

Description

Wattles and live stakes are part of a bioengineering approach to shoreline management--the use of live vegetation for erosion control. Live stakes are cuttings from shrubs that are also used to stabilize slopes.

Wattles, also called live fascines, are bundles of live branches used at the toe (bottom) and on slopes for stabilization and to introduce new plant material. Wattles reduce water velocity, trap sediment, and hold soil in place.

Both live stakes and wattles will sprout and grow, forming a living stabilization system.