Summary

Live staking is a simple, low-cost way to stabilize streambanks, ditches, and lakeshores using dormant cuttings of native woody plants that root in wet soil. Guidance covers where it works best (saturated soils, active erosion areas), how to choose species, harvest and store stakes, lay out spacing, install and monitor success, and maintain sites by controlling invasives. Also outlines basic streambank restoration steps (toe, face, buffer) and when professional design and permits are needed.