Contact: Jenni Brockman
Telephone: 804-443-3357
Fax: 804-443-6781

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rip-Rap Reinforces History, Science and Shoreline

Tappahannock, VA (December 19, 2000) - A new rip-rap revetment will do more than protect the shoreline at St. Margaret's School. The project, scheduled for completion by mid-January, also helps preserve local heritage and creates a living laboratory for the SMS River Program.

The rip-rap revetment at St. Margaret's School is nearing completion. Approximately 2,000 tons of rock will protect historic buildings, provide learning opportunities and stabilize the Rappahannock River shoreline. Pictured here are seniors Dwann Cutler and Carol Combs.

Three colonial-era school buildings: Anderton House, Brockenbrough House and St. Margaret's Hall, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Tappahannock Historic District, said Business Manager Nancy Smith. "We know these structures have tremendous value to the community, and erosion is bringing them closer to the river each year."

When the revetment is finished, approximately 2000 tons of rock will stabilize 925 feet of shoreline where the existing timber seawall is failing. An added benefit is that the rip-rap will create new habitats for existing marine life. SMS students studied the shoreline prior to the project and will make follow-up observations this spring, said River Program Coordinator Andrea Robinson.

"The girls are predicting that small fish and crabs will seek shelter among the rocks," she said. "It's also possible that marsh grasses will begin to grow, because the revetment will produce calmer water at the river's edge by dissipating wave energy."

Ransone's Nursery and Maintenance, Inc., of Kilmarnock is constructing the revetment. Workers are taking the extra step of hand-placing the exterior layer of rock to create a ramp-like surface that is attractive to both land and river travelers. The revetment is expected to last indefinitely.

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