ICM worked with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to develop a high-priority hybrid salt marsh restoration design for the Corinella foreshore, addressing erosion risks and enhancing coastal resilience. This innovative nature-based solution (NBS) balances ecological restoration with shoreline protection in response to climate change and sea-level rise.
Project Details
Client: Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action (DEECA)
Date: 2024
Location: Corinella Foreshore, Western Port Bay, Victoria, Australia
About This Project
The Challenge
The Corinella foreshore faced escalating erosion risks and habitat degradation due to rising sea levels and increased coastal pressures. A previous site evaluation ranked Corinella as a prime candidate for a nature-based restoration trial, but significant knowledge gaps remained regarding site suitability and specific design requirements.
The Solution
ICM conducted comprehensive site investigations to assess and validate the feasibility of a hybrid saltmarsh nature-based method. Key actions included:
Site Analysis: Conducted foreshore and intertidal surveys, geotechnical sediment sampling, and flora/fauna studies.
Hydrological and Stormwater Assessments: Analysed stormwater catchment, outfall quality, and tidal conditions to determine restoration viability.
Design Recommendations: Proposed a hybrid supported saltmarsh restoration design, including fill material placement to adjust bed levels, rock sills to stabilise the shoreline, and saltmarsh planting with native species.
Priority Zones: Identified high-priority restoration areas with the greatest ecological and coastal protection potential.
The final design integrates stormwater systems and supports biodiversity while enhancing the site’s resilience to erosion and climate impacts.
“The Corinella saltmarsh project demonstrates how nature-based solutions can address coastal challenges while fostering ecological renewal and community benefits.” – Sam King, Project Lead, International Coastal Management
Services Provided
Site Investigation and Suitability Analysis
Geotechnical and Ecological Surveys
Concept and Detailed Design of Hybrid Saltmarsh Restoration
High-Level Hydrological and Coastal Processes Assessment
Recommendations for Nature-Based Interventions
Get in Touch
ICM is at the forefront of designing and implementing nature-based solutions that balance ecological restoration with resilient coastal protection. Contact us to learn how we can help transform your coastline sustainably.