Coastal Landform System Sustainability Project: An Analysis of Activities Permitted on Coastal Landforms on Cape Cod, Massachusetts in 1999
Abstract
In their natural state, the coastal landform systems of Cape Cod are self-sustaining. However, recognition that humans have become intrinsic agents in the evolution of coastal landscapes is significant. There is a great need to understand how individual actions on a small scale (lot-by-lot) basis affect the sustainability of coastal landform systems, such as coastal dunes, beaches, coastal banks, barrier beaches, saltmarshes, and coastal floodplains. However, there are few investigations relative to this scale. This study illustrates the vast extent of human alterations to coastal landforms on Cape Cod. As a result of analyzing 318 Orders of Conditions issued for activities permitted on and adjacent to coastal landforms in all 15 Cape Cod towns in 1999, it documents and quantifies the gains and losses to coastal landform system sustainability. The study documents the types of activities presently taking place on and adjacent to our coastal landforms and their potential affects, and potential mitigation being required by local commissions to minimize these affects. It also documents the trade-offs and balances oftentimes necessary in the application of performance standard based regulations governing activities proposed on coastal landforms. Because our quantitative understanding of coastal landform function is still evolving, particularly on a small-scale lot-by-lot basis, many decisions are oftentimes made using best professional judgement (if available) without the predictive capability to know what the impact will be to the applicant's or neighboring property and resources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA383545
Entities
People
- James F. O'connell
Organizations
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution