As part of the larger Onondaga Lake Cleanup, six cobble berms were originally installed along the shoreline to reduce wave energy and protect newly restored wetland habitats. Following NYSDEC’s long-term maintenance and monitoring plan recommendations, it was determined that the berms should remain in place and be enhanced to improve habitat value.

LAND Remediation, Inc. (LRI) was contracted to complete enhancement work on three of these berms. The upgrades included live plantings of native trees and shrubs, as well as modifications to support Common Tern nesting by filling gaps between larger cobble with finer stone to create more suitable conditions. LRI’s scope also involved installing and adjusting a turbidity curtain to match lake-bottom contours, fully containing Berms D, E, and F in phases. Shoreline access points were stabilized with fabric and crusher run, and erosion socks were installed to control sediment migration. Stone was placed along the berms in controlled lifts to minimize disturbance to existing vegetation.

Finally, disturbed areas were regraded, reseeded, and restored to protect wildlife habitat and maintain the integrity of the shoreline.