Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources has announced it will accept applications for nature-based shoreline restoration initiatives across three Eastern Shore counties.
The agency has issued a formal Request for Proposals seeking construction, design/build, and design submissions for living shoreline restoration work. Approximately $17 million in funding has been allocated for these environmental protection efforts. Applications will be accepted through April 6, 2026 and can be found on the Roots for Resilience: Open Solicitations webpage, which also contains detailed instructions and eligibility criteria.
Projects under consideration must be situated within Wicomico, Somerset, or Dorchester counties and must safeguard significant adjacent wetland areas. The agency’s goal is to fund large-scale restoration efforts that will collectively preserve 400 acres of high-quality tidal marsh habitat.
Priority will be given to public land initiatives that protect substantial marsh areas, with multiple project awards anticipated. While the minimum funding threshold is set at $1 million, smaller design-only proposals may receive consideration with department approval. Although matching funds are not mandatory, additional leveraged funding is welcomed.
Living shoreline techniques employ natural erosion prevention methods, including marsh vegetation, coir logs, sills, and breakwaters, to stabilize coastlines while preserving natural coastal dynamics. These methods help minimize erosion and flooding, safeguard infrastructure, reduce long-term expenses, support maritime industries, and enhance coastal resilience.
Those interested in applying should reach out to Ari Engelberg ([email protected]) for RFP details, to discuss potential project concepts, and to arrange site evaluations.
The initiative receives funding through a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which was awarded to the Atlantic Conservation Coalition, a partnership of four coastal states that includes the Maryland Department of the Environment.
