Restored oyster reefs function as living shorelines to reduce wave energy in intertidal marshes Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science

Many researchers have turned to 'living shorelines' as a solution for coastal erosion, where foundational species such as oyster reefs are used to stabilize shorelines while concurrently restoring ecosystem function. However, few studies quantify the ability of oyster reefs to physically diminish wave energy, especially those constructed with traditional restoration methods in intertidal zones. In May 2023, two oyster reefs were constructed using spat-on-shell in the intertidal Savannah River (Savannah, Georgia, USA). Results indicate that constructed reefs decreased wave energy by up to 40% compared to non-reef control sites and experienced live oyster coverage of 17-40% almost 18 months post-deployment. Grant no. NA18OAR4170084