Eroded shorelines have resulted in creation of mudflats, increased turbidity, declining littoral habitat and impaired bank access for anglers. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) received $1.15 million in mitigation funds earmarked to address the shoreline erosion issues on Raystown. PFBC has a nationally recognized lake habitat restoration program. Program methods include using Best Management Practices recognized as “state-of-the-art” restoration methods.

Most shoreline restoration methods involve the use of heavy equipment which necessarily restricts the available sites to those accessible by land-based equipment. Many high-priority restorations sites are therefore excluded from the restoration efforts. PFBC purchased a heavy-duty barge to transport equipment and materials to such remote sites (Figure 1). Shoreline stabilization efforts will take place at 6 sites stabilizing 38,000 ft2. In addition to restored shorelines that will reduce erosion and turbidity, angler bank fishing access will be augmented. Structural habitat, i.e., root wads, woody structure and rock reefs will be place at or near these restored sites

Human Interest/Community Benefit:

Bank access will improved at the restoration sites and boat-based angling will be improved by the addition of “boat-mooring stations” at or near the structure sites. An current high-use aquatic resource will be even more accessible upon completion of the restoration efforts.

Partners:

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Friends of Raystown Lake
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Juanita College
Student Conservation Association
Huntington Visitors Bureau
Pennsylvania Striped Bass Association