Field Evaluation/Demonstration of a Multisegmented Dewatering System for Accreting Beach Sand in a High-Wave-Energy Environment
Abstract
This study documents the use of beach dewatering systems to accrete beach sand and minimize erosion, and to develop quantitative guidance for constructing and operating beach dewatering installations. The study describes three independently operating dewatering systems deployed along the eastern shore of Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, and the field monitoring program established to study the influence of the system on beach processes. The monitoring program included measurements of beach morphology and hydrogeology, nearshore bathymetry, meteorology, system operation and maintenance, discharge water quality, and the effects on beach vegetation and meiofaunal communities. The ecological and environmental assessment of the influence of the dewatering systems on Nantucket revealed that the systems had a minimal effect on ocean water quality and quality of the local freshwater aquifer. The observed changes in maritime vegetation and the inter-tidal invertebrate communities could not be attributed to system operation. However, it is advisable that potential environmental impacts be assessed in detail for future installations. A simplified modeling exercise to determine the aerial influence of system drawdown at Codfish Park revealed that the landward extent of drawdown is considerably greater than the longshore extent. Landward extent of drawdown may have adverse ramifications if the local groundwater is exploited as a public water supply, or if septic systems are within the system's influence.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA352959
Entities
People
- Jack E. Davis
- William R. Curtis