Protecting a waterfront property from erosion while maintaining its natural beauty takes experience, precision, and the right materials. This recent shoreline restoration project in Burlington, Wisconsin, is a perfect example of how Koch Kuts delivers long-lasting, effective, and visually appealing solutions for residential waterfronts. Using riprap shoreline protection, we were able to transform a severely eroded bank into a durable and natural-looking boulder barrier that blends seamlessly with the lakefront environment.

When we arrived at this Burlington lakefront property, the shoreline was in critical condition. Years of water runoff and wave action had worn away the bank, leaving it unstable and unsightly. The existing small rocks were ineffective in resisting erosion, especially near the dock where wave energy is typically the strongest.

To stabilize and restore the shoreline, our team designed a custom riprap shoreline protection system that would:

• Prevent future erosion
• Improve lakefront safety
• Enhance the property’s natural appearance
• Meet local shoreline regulations

We installed a heavy-duty lakefront boulder wall using large, strategically placed natural stones. These boulders were selected for their durability, weight, and visual appeal. Each stone was carefully positioned to interlock and absorb the force of incoming waves, especially near the dock area where water activity is frequent.

This natural stone shoreline in Burlington, WI, not only provides erosion control but also adds a rugged, clean aesthetic that complements the existing landscaping.

Here’s a breakdown of the key steps taken during this erosion control shoreline project:

1. Site Prep and Demolition

The original shoreline included sparse, scattered stones and failed erosion barriers. We removed the unstable material and graded the bank to prepare it for riprap installation.

2. Bank Reshaping and Fabric Installation

To support long-term shoreline stability, we reshaped the slope and added erosion control fabric. This fabric acts as a barrier to prevent soil displacement beneath the riprap.

3. Riprap Shoreline Protection

Large boulders were trucked in and installed in layers from the water’s edge up to the top of the slope. Stones were hand-placed to maximize surface coverage and lock into one another naturally.

4. Seamless Dock Integration

Special attention was given to the shoreline repair near the dock, where water turbulence can be the most aggressive. The riprap was tied directly into the dock edge to prevent undercutting and protect the structure.

5. Final Touches: Straw Matting and Seeding

We applied erosion control straw matting and seeded the upper bank to encourage healthy grass growth. This step completes the restoration and helps integrate the riprap into the surrounding landscape.

Unlike concrete or steel options, this natural stone shoreline solution in Burlington offers both function and form. It allows water to filter through without washing away soil, and visually matches the rustic charm of lakefront living.

Because the project used local, natural materials and followed environmentally responsible installation practices, it aligns with Wisconsin DNR shoreline protection standards.

A well-executed residential waterfront restoration project does more than just protect property — it increases long-term property value, improves water quality by filtering runoff, and reduces maintenance costs.

This Burlington homeowner can now enjoy peace of mind knowing their shoreline is protected, stabilized, and visually elevated for years to come.

If your lakefront property is suffering from erosion or unstable banks, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Koch Kuts specializes in shoreline restoration throughout Southeastern Wisconsin, offering custom solutions that protect, stabilize, and beautify.

📍 Serving Burlington, Lake Geneva, Waterford, and beyond.

📞 Call us today at (262) 534-9509 or visit kochkuts.com to request a free shoreline assessment.