Following

This is a complete local site and logistics dilemma. Not internetable , get a local pro on site.

I know enough to know I would never comment, but "internet yahoos" is a little harsh for a Monday. :)

Most people around lakes in Maine pull out their docks in winter. I'd recommend the lower section of your stairs be removable.

I have worked with similar situations. My advice is to do your homework first to evaluate if there are new environmental laws in your town which may have to be followed when repair is made.

Turn to your local Government for answers. Meet with the head of your local Building Dept. for answers and see if he can arrange for you to meet with the engineer it employs who will have all the answers. There should not be a charge for this as you are a local taxpaying resident. This approach should be helpful. If not, contact your State Environmental for guidance. Environmental laws are 'tricky' these days. Sek advice.

You will probably need a state or federal permit (or more than one) to modify the bank in any way. But the local building office will be able to give you the details.

Thanks for all the replies! Got a quote from a sea wall specialist the other day. WOW!!!

Wow as in yikes, or….

My money is on sticker shock. :-]

Wow, as in Wow, $$$$$$

Lakefront property is expensive all the way around.

Consider paying someone to draw up a plan, then DIY?

Check with a company that drives wooden pilings for a dock/sitting area. May be less $ than a concrete seawall. You will need special permits and Conservation Commission 's OK most likely. Consider also just wood stairs that you take up for winter, and put in a patio at the top of your bank as a sitting area. May be a lot less $.

Remember that the tree roots stabilize the bank, if you are still thinking of cutting into the bank i some way. You don't want to damage roots/harm the tree.

Ouch! That's pretty bad. I don't know where you are or what lake you are on....

But yes, you should be getting in a seawall specialist to help stabilize the water area to prevent further dune/shore erosion. Also consider stabilizing your erosion area with plantings- use natives suited for the area. Do not cut down any trees right now unless they are an endangerment to the property- and if you must cut down, leave the stump high and the root systems intact.

Who all needs to be involved depends. If you are on a smaller lake, you might only be getting your local government involved. Like your township or county- and maybe state if the lake is big enough or depending on your watershed area. If you are on something like a Great Lake you will absolutely be getting the state in on it.

For example I'm right off Lake Michigan. A smaller inland lake here gets township approval, a very large one and sometimes watersheds get county and up to state level involvement. If it's anything to do with Lake Michigan itself, EGLE (Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy) is involved. There are sometimes critical dune areas that come into play there as well.