RETENTION OPTIONS

PROPERLY PLANNED RETENTION PROJECTS CAN CREATE WORLD CLASS BEACHES AND WORLD CLASS WAVES

When tied to larger urban planning strategies, coastal retention structures can do more than address coastal erosion. They can protect critical economic assets and allow for essential community conversations for long-term planning. Multi-benefit retention structures, such as artificial reefs, living shorelines, headlands and groins, are viable options for climate adaptation and long-term resilience efforts.

  • Artificial Reefs

    Artificial Reefs

    Artificial reefs help dissipate swell energy, the main driver of rapid erosion. While their primary goal is shoreline protection, they can also enhance surfing conditions. An emergent crest and two submerged sloping rock edges create a-frame waves, maintaining surf opportunities. Additionally, using advanced materials for the reef can boost biodiversity.

  • Artificial Headlands

    Artificial headlands stabilize the top of the beach, allowing for the development of dunes, and facilitate natural sand bypass and flow, retaining nourished sand for longer periods. They can also reduce wave breaking and sand flow in the intertidal zone, contributing to the stability and protection of coastal areas by minimizing erosion and maintaining the integrity of the beach and adjacent habitats. Additionally, artificial headlands create new public spaces, enhancing recreational opportunities and contributing to the local community's well-being.

  • Living Shorelines

    Living shorelines are an effective solution for regions with expansive sandy beaches and room for dune formation. This method combines natural ecosystems and vegetation with buried layers of reinforcement, like large boulders, to strengthen the beach. Furthermore, living shorelines offer habitats for species that may be endangered.

  • Groins

    Groins manage shorelines by trapping and retaining coastal sediments. For optimal performance, a steady supply of sediment should be introduced through a sand bypass system, pre-filling the beach and supplying additional sand to the littoral cell to support downstream beaches. By closely observing wave conditions, shifts in biodiversity, and alterations to local and adjacent beaches, engineers can adjust the groins as necessary.

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