Enhancing geomorphic and biologic functions and values on backshores and dunes of developed shores: A review of opportunities and constraints

Karl F. Nordstrom, Nancy L. Jackson, Nicholas C. Kraus, Timothy W. Kana, Randy Bearce, Lynn M. Bocamazo, Donald R. Young, Harry A. De Butts

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

This article identifies ways to overcome impediments to restoring natural features on developed shores where human-use functions are the dominant driving forces. Suggestions are made for (1) incorporating natural features and natural dynamism into beach nourishment projects; (2) addressing constraints in size and space; (3) reducing the impact of human actions and elements in the landscape; (4) integrating endangered species programmes; (5) overcoming impediments to implementing restoration projects; (6) conducting post-construction evaluations and actions; (7) obtaining public support; and (8) addressing regulatory issues. Beach nourishment projects can better mimic natural landforms, while protecting infrastructure and habitat, creating space for dunes, and providing sediment for dune building. Dunes can have more value as habitat if sub-environments representative of natural gradients are accommodated. Greater human effort will be required to maintain both dynamic and stable zones for habitat, and these zones may be restricted to smaller scales. Controls can be placed on human actions, such as raking the beach, driving on the beach, walking through the dune, emplacing more structures than necessary and introducing exotic vegetation for landscaping. Regulatory restrictions that now prevent environmentally friendly actions can be eased, and adaptive management and education programmes can be implemented.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)288-302
Number of pages15
JournalEnvironmental Conservation
Volume38
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2011

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Water Science and Technology
  • Pollution
  • Nature and Landscape Conservation
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law
  • Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Keywords

  • Beach nourishment
  • coastal erosion
  • dunes
  • environmental regulations
  • restoration
  • shore protection

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Enhancing geomorphic and biologic functions and values on backshores and dunes of developed shores: A review of opportunities and constraints'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this