Restoring and maintaining naturally-functioning landforms and biota on intensively developed barrier islands under a no-retreat alternative
Nordstrom, K.F.; Mauriello, M.N. (2001). Restoring and maintaining naturally-functioning landforms and biota on intensively developed barrier islands under a no-retreat alternative. Shore Beach 69(3): 19-28
In: Shore and Beach. American Shore and Beach Preservation Association: Berkeley, Calif., etc.,. ISSN 0037-4237, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Nordstrom, K.F.
- Mauriello, M.N.
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| Abstract |
Changes to beaches and dunes in New Jersey reveal that hard-protection structures are not the final phase in evolution of landforms on an eroding, developed coast. Beach nourishment provides the basis for restoration of landforms and biota, and for recovery of lost environmental heritage. Landform evolution is linked to changes in federal and state policies and programs that are triggered by damaging storms. The economic value of beaches and dunes as shore protection is crucial to willingness to construct them, but natural values are an important byproduct that increases acceptability of future restoration programs. Stable funding for shore protection is key to creating and preserving restored habitat, as are prevention of beach raking (required, in places, by the need to protect nesting birds) and resistance to demands for new construction. Achievable dune-restoration outcomes are identified in selected municipalities. Dunes can evolve as natural dynamic landforms on the seaward side and be stable on the landward side, providing vegetative diversity and protective value. Restoration of habitat makes the case for nourishment more compelling, but conservation of this habitat may not occur unless there is a long-term commitment to nourishment and control of subsequent human activities on the coast. |
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