Resources | Bluffs & Gullies

FUN facts

Bluffs are steep, vertical exposures of clay, sand, shale, bedrock, limestone, or combinations. On Lake Huron's southeastern shores, bluffs are made of 86% silt and clay, and 14% sand, gravel, and cobbles. These cliffs are vulnerable to erosion.

Approximately 200 gullies have formed along the southeastern shores. Gullies are 'V' or 'U'-shaped features cut into bluffs due to erosive processes.

~72% of the sediment feeding beaches on the southeastern shores comes from gully erosion.

PUBLICATIONs & Fact sheets

A steep vertical exposure comprised of clay, sand, shale, bedrock, limestone, or any combination of these. These areas are prone to erosion due to their direct interaction with changing lake levels

Bluffs and gullies are a beautiful and important part of our ecosystems but they can cause concern for cottagers and municipalities. Our Coastal Science and Stewardship advisors have the expertise and considerable experience providing help and advice. Additionally, we have produced a number of bluff management guides and materials.