Sylvan Lake is a coastal lake connected to the Atlantic Ocean via a hydraulically-controlled outfall structure. The lake had not functioned naturally for nearly a century, and its water quality had degraded, virtually eliminating its recreational value. Matrix, in collaboration with the Borough of Avon-by-the-Sea, is working to return the lake to a functional status. We prepared and successfully secured Nonpoint Source Grant Program (319h) funding for a living shoreline and stormwater treatment project. Using the funding as a resource, Matrix designed a plan to eliminate the lake’s bulkheaded shorelines in favor of a naturally-vegetated shoreline that will serve the dual purpose of providing a riparian water quality buffer and acting as a barrier to the problematic goose population.

Sylvan Lake’s water quality also suffers from the conveyance of municipal stormwater directly into the lake from multiple outfalls. As part of the water quality design, Matrix designed vegetated outfall basins that will trap sediment and treat water prior to its discharge into the lake. Matrix performed all necessary services for the project, including design, permitting, procurement, and construction administration.

Services Provided:

• Hydrographic Survey
• Marine Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Landscape Architecture
• Wetland Design
• Permitting
• Environmental Investigations
• Procurement Assistance
• Construction Administration