A DIY guide to natural shoreline protection
This workshop is part of a 6-part series focused on live staking. Learn more here.
📍At Salt Bay Farm in Damariscotta | 📅 April 9 , 2026 | 🕐 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Join us, in partnership with the Maine Forest Service and Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, for a hands-on Live Staking Workshop at Salt Bay Farm.
This interactive session will be led by Maine Forest Service District Forester Jared Gregory. Participants will learn how to identify the right species, how to harvest stakes without harming the parent plant, and take part in a live planting demonstration.
Please come prepared to work outdoors. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy boots, and bring work gloves and hand pruners or loppers if you have them (we will have extras available).
Whether you’re a landowner, volunteer, or simply curious about conservation practices, this workshop offers a great opportunity to learn by doing and connect with local conservation partners.
Weather Contingencies: In case of inclement weather, the rain date is scheduled for Friday, April 10th. All who register will be notified.
What is Live Staking?
Live staking is a low-cost, natural “bioengineering” technique used to repair eroding shorelines. It involves taking dormant cuttings from specific native trees and shrubs—like willows and dogwoods—and planting them directly into the ground. Because these species are incredibly resilient, the “stakes” will grow a new root system, effectively creating a living wall of vegetation.
Why is it necessary?
Reduces erosion: The new root systems act like “rebar” for the soil, binding it together and preventing it from washing away during heavy rains.
Protects water quality: By stabilizing the bank, we prevent sediment from clouding the water and harming aquatic life.
Cooler habitats: As these stakes grow into mature shrubs, they provide shade that keeps water temperatures cool for native fish.