Pond Boss Forums GENERAL QUESTIONS Property Projects & Construction Retaining wall for shore line

Hello everyone, new here and have been looking through posts trying to find some answers but I couldn't so I figured I would post.
I am wanting to put in a retaining wall on the shore line to build up the area behind it to make it level and eventually put in a patio. I was wanting to do it with concrete blocks that are 10"x10"x16". It would be a 36' long wall from each property line and about 3-3.5' tall. My concern is that it would not last long. I was planning on building the wall on a concrete footing and using rebar in the middle of the blocks and and cement to the middle of them and put rip rap on the bottom on the water side to keep the bases integrity. The pond is small, it's in the middle of my subdivision, no boats or anything like that. Only problem is the water line drops and rises dramatically with drought and a lot of rain. My question is that do you guys think that will last or should I use another method? Thanks!

If done properly I've seen these walls last many many years..

Problem is usually making a good footing and dealing with the HOA.

Even at just 3'-3.5' tall, I'd think about putting in some anchors right under the top course to help prevent the top of the wall from bowing out over time.

You should be fine the way you have planned it. Just fill the blocks with mortar or concrete mix as I do not think they make a ten inch block that is solid. Good luck!