The extension of the Emerald Necklace can be created by using traditional weaving and timber techniques, which are successfully developed in Japan and The Netherlands. These techniques are using natural elements like wood en fast growing bushes to make obstacles in the coastline. The tide will create sediment and nature by itself. Sediment and plants will grow and get stuck in these obstacles, which will lead to a natural defence line for the coastline of Boston.
There are three techniques possible to create an natural defence line. The first technique is to make a strong defence. Timber crates will be stacked together imbedded into the ground. Inside the crate are rocks. As time will pass, nature will adapt to it. It will create a rich environment with lots of biodiversity. The second technique are salt marches which are suitable for experiments and leisure. Crates of timber are located in front of the dry areas, and the dry areas are protected by walls made of woven willows. Within the salt marches floating buildings can be tested and the walk able pathways are ideal to explore nature. The third and last is a Dutch coastal protection technique in making land. The willows will be stacked between pillars and create small eco-friendly walls. But they can also be used as education and land-art. These weaved willows are easy to make and adaptable to any situation. So people can make their own ground by using these techniques, and schools can be involved to show future generations how these techniques can protect the coast lines. Together it will create a divers landscape where participants can try new techniques.
There are 6 steps to reach this goal. The first step is to raise the ground at the waterfront. At the same time the traditional obstacles can be placed. These obstacles will immediately create new nature and coastal protection. The second step is to create neighbourhood participation. This can be done by events and land-art about this theme ‘’traditional coastal defence’’. The third step is to let the participants play with the barriers and let them contribute to defend their own neighbourhoods. The fourth step is about passing the knowledge to next generations by involving locale schools. The fifth step will create new housing typologies in these salt marches by using new techniques, like for instance floating architecture. This will also create new living areas and new revenues for the city of Boston. The last step will ensure that the quality of life will be higher than the current situation and the salt marches will create a new eco-friendly habitat.
Students
Team Member(s)
Erwin Webbink – Student Urban Design – Netherlands
Winfried Verheul – Student Architecture – Netherlands