Shannon Point Shoreline Improvements

Herrera is assisting Western Washington University in restoring marine shoreline at its Shannon Point Marine Center in Anacortes, WA. Erosion along the facility’s shorefront had exposed elements of the lab’s infrastructure in the Rosario Strait that are necessary for conducting scientific research. Existing concrete structures, including a derelict boat launch, was evaluated for removal and new measures balancing shore protection with habitat enhancements were designed. This coastal restoration project focused on reducing environmental impacts and construction costs while also augmenting beach sediment transport and habitat functions, including the development of a marine riparian planting plan. Herrera also coordinated and secured environmental permit authorizations at federal, state and local agencies. The project is in compliance with the provisions for the protection of fish and wildlife species according to the Endangered Species Act and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Construction is expected in 2022.