Notice: Private property oweners who experienced shoreline erosion caused by Hurricane Isabel may qualify for low interest loans to repair or install shoreline protection measures. Please contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to initiate the process.

DCR's Shoreline Erosion Advisory Service promotes environmentally acceptable shoreline and riverbank erosion control measures to protect private property and reduce sediment and nutrient loads to the Chesapeake Bay and other waters of the Commonwealth. In addition, the program promotes research for improved shoreline management techniques to protect and enhance Virginia's shoreline resources.

Tidal erosion

Since SEAS was created in 1980, DCR has provided technical advice about shoreline erosion problems to more than 7,000 clients. They include landowners, local governments and environmental agencies. SEAS program activities also help local governments deal with sediment and nutrient loads from shoreline erosion and, of course, address the Commonwealth's obligation to reduce sediment and nutrient loads in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

Nontidal erosion

The SEAS program was expanded in 1993 to provide landowners, local governments and environmental agencies with technical advice and assistance related to streambank erosion and riparian buffer problems. DCR staff coordinates technical assistance with local soil and water conservation districts