Perdido Key, Fla. – (OBA) –  The Perdido Bay Estuary Program will hold an open house about its new Living Shoreline Assistance Program. The event is open to commercial and residential property owners, neighborhood groups, and community organizations.

It will take place May 1 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Perdido Key Visitor Center's community room, located at 15500 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola, FL 32507. More details are available at the Pensacola and Perdido Bay Estuary Website. 

The program helps waterfront property owners in the Pensacola and Perdido Bay areas fight shoreline erosion. It is part of a larger effort to protect coastal habitats and improve water quality.

Related Article: New Program Helps Coastal Homes Fight Erosion

Living shorelines use nature-based solutions like native plants and oyster shells to keep coastlines stable. These methods also help rebuild habitats for fish and birds while filtering water naturally.

Some shorelines combine natural materials with structures like rocks or artificial reefs. These hybrid shorelines offer extra strength while still supporting the environment.

Compared to bulkheads and other hard barriers, living shorelines are often cheaper, last longer, and do less harm to coastal ecosystems. The program aims to spread awareness about these benefits.