Creating extraordinary landscapes since 1983

Rip Rap

Protecting your shoreline is vital for maintaining your property's beauty, safety, and longevity, especially when your home is positioned along a waterfront. Fortunately, NEC is the leader in rip rap installation and will ensure a stable and gorgeous solution.

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Expert Rip Rap Installation & Shoreline Erosion Control 

At Natural Environments Corp, our 40+ years of shoreline landscaping and rip rap installation have made us the leader in Minnesota for waterfront landscape management. Our team specializes in sophisticated rip rap installation and comprehensive erosion control solutions for any lake or riverfront property. 

Our experienced experts are unmatched in creating durable, sustainable shoreline defenses that harmonize with the surrounding environment and look as beautiful as they are secure. 

Prices Starting at

$90/linear ft.

Site specific quote, subject to increase, sales tax not included


Why Rip Rap Landscaping Is Essential for Shorelines

Rip rap serves as an essential barrier against the forces of water and erosion. For waterfront homes, shoreline erosion can lead to lost land, structural damage, and environmental issues. 

Rip rap, composed of geotextile fabric, carefully arranged stone, and even vegetation, helps stabilize shorelines, absorb wave energy, and protect your property from erosion caused by harsh weather and fluctuating water levels. 

Tailored Shoreline Erosion Control Solutions

No two shorelines are the same, so our experts take the time to evaluate each location to determine the best approach for erosion control.

We offer three distinct solutions to meet the needs of our clients and their landscapes:

  • Hard Armoring: Hard armoring provides the most resilient defense for areas exposed to extreme wave action or weather. Using rip rap retaining walls and other materials, this method fortifies your shoreline with a robust physical barrier capable of withstanding the harshest conditions. 
  • Vegetative Method: This eco-friendly solution integrates native plants and grasses to promote natural erosion control while enhancing the beauty and biodiversity of your shoreline. It is ideal for low-impact areas where a softer, more natural aesthetic is preferred. 
  • Hybrid Solutions: Our hybrid method combines the strength of hard armoring with the gentle touch of vegetation, providing the best of both worlds. This option blends functionality with artistry, creating a shoreline defense that is both strong and visually appealing. 

Full-Service Rip Rap Installations

When choosing NEC, you choose a team that prioritizes safety, aesthetics, and full-service installations. We ensure that every installation is designed not just for practical erosion control but also to elevate the natural beauty of your property. 

Most communities require permits and documentation that follows specific rules for shoreline improvement. Our rip rap and landscape designers are well-versed in these regulations and guide you through the complicated process while ensuring the rip rap installation goes smoothly.   

Protect Your Shoreline With NEC 

Whether you’re dealing with aggressive erosion or looking to preserve the natural splendor of your waterfront, Natural Environments Corp. is uniquely equipped to deliver top-tier rip rap installation and erosion control solutions. 

Call us at 763-544-8002 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can transform your shoreline into a beautiful and enduring masterpiece.

Our Process for Designing & Maintaining Beautiful Landscapes

Consult

  • Introductions
    Assess existing conditions + get to know each other
  • Vision
    Talk through project goals + review portfolio
  • Path
    Discuss budget expectations + review design & build options
Define

Define

  • Feasibility
    Align expectations & reality + code & permitting requirements
  • Program
    Establish project goals + confirm technical scope
  • Planning
    Site measurements + establish next steps
Design

Design

  • Concepts
    Develop multiple design scenarios + visualize & illustrate options
  • Precedents
    Softscape + hardscape
  • Preferred Plan
    Collaboration to finalize design + check against budget
Refine

Refine

  • Documentation
    Permitting & approvals + specs & shop drawings
  • Selections
    Final hardscape & softscape + establish any required phasing
  • Pricing
    Accurate take-offs + review scope & schedule
Process Build

Build

  • Coordination
    Client communication + integrate subcontractors
  • Installation
    Orderly & efficient process + client updates
  • Oversight
    Site observation by designer + close out & walkthrough
Maintain

Maintain

  • Evaluate
    Determine site requirements + establish client agreement
  • Initiate
    Replace plants under warranty + oversee & begin tasks
  • Persist
    Routinely care for landscape needs + steward site quality into the future

FAQs About Our Rip Rap Installations

How Is Rip Rap Installed?

Rip Rap installation involves precise planning and attention to detail. At NEC, our process begins with an assessment of your shoreline’s unique characteristics. We then grade the area to ensure stability and strategically place stones of various sizes to create a secure, interlocking structure. This method absorbs and disperses energy from waves and ice, minimizing potential damage and erosion.

How Does NEC Determine Which Type of Erosion Control Your Shoreline Needs?

Our team conducts an in-depth evaluation of your shoreline’s exposure to waves, soil composition, water dynamics, and environmental conditions. Based on these factors, we recommend the most effective erosion control solution—be it hard armoring, vegetative methods, or a hybrid approach—that aligns with your property’s needs and personal aesthetic preferences.

How Long Does Rip Rap Last?

Proper installation and maintenance allow rip rap structures to last for decades, providing long-term protection and peace of mind. While environmental conditions like heavy ice or storms may influence their lifespan, NEC's high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship ensure a durable and reliable solution.

What Our Clients Say About Us

It’s one thing to say we care about our clients’ satisfaction, but it’s better coming from our pleased customers! See how our team keeps your goals front and center.