Facility Pond Shoreline Stabilization Addresses Erosion in Findlay, OH

To repair the large sections of erosion along the shoreline, AQUALIS first regraded the slope of the pond. A mini excavator was brought in to stabilize the shoreline, adding fill where needed. The team chose to use patented ShoreSOX technology to stabilize the severe erosion along the water’s edge. To install the ShoreSOX material, the team first hammered stakes into the ground to tie the material to. The material is rolled out half in the water and half on the bank. The edge of the material on the ground is then tied to the stakes, anchoring the system to the ground. The material is folded in half so that it lays on top of the shoreline. Fill is then pumped into the folded material, creating a strong barrier. The ShoreSOX can then be tamped to the appropriate grade. The material now acts as a barrier against the changing water levels and rushing runoff. Sod can then be installed on top of the material, resembling a typical grassed shoreline. 

In conjunction with the ShoreSOX, riprap was placed along the shoreline as aligned with the original design.

Addressing Sitewide Erosion 

The erosion on the side of the property, away from the pond was then addressed. The small dissipater pad was excavated and graded appropriately. Then riprap was placed. Addressing erosion across the entire property is essential to ensuring the repair is effective. If the pond was appropriately repaired without addressing erosion in the parking lot, the excess sediment from the parking lot would still accumulate in the pond and a dredge would still be necessary.  

Once the repairs were complete, the area could be returned to full functionality. Due to the equipment, grassed areas of the property had been disturbed. Hydroseed compatible with the soil type was sprayed across the area to promote vegetation growth to combat further erosion.

Results and Long-Term Performance  

The completed repairs stabilized the pond shoreline and restored the stormwater system to its original design intent. Repaired and sealed headwalls safely transport parking lot runoff into the pond, eliminating soil loss caused by separated connections and uncontrolled flows. 

Shoreline erosion was mitigated through strategic riprap placement and the installation of ShoreSOX technology. This combined approach protects the pond from fluctuating water levels and high-velocity runoff while maintaining a natural, grassed shoreline. The repairs preserve the pond’s storage capacity and significantly reduce the risk of future sediment accumulation and costly dredging. 

Erosion beyond the pond was also addressed by reconstructing the dissipater pad and stabilizing the surrounding areas, preventing sediment from migrating across the site. Hydroseeding restored disturbed areas and promotes long-term vegetation growth for continued erosion control. 

By addressing erosion across the entire property, AQUALIS delivered a comprehensive, long-term solution that improves stormwater performance, reduces maintenance needs, and protects the integrity of the site.