Geomorphological Mapping of Mediterranean Coastal Features, Northeast Spain

Abstract

Study proposes a method for the cartographic reproduction, in a single map, of natural features, coastal dynamics, and artifical structures. The test site focuses on a sector of the Spanish Mediterranean coast, from Barcelona to Comarruga, The different variables are represented in successive coastwise bands. This method permits: (a) analysis and visualization of relationships between the variables, (b) the incorporation of new variables in additional bands, and (c) the cartographic representation of temporal variations. The features mapped include backshore forms and the shoreline morphology. Other variables mapped in successive bands correspond to seawater dynamics (1st band), coastal processes (2nd band), artificial structures (3rd band), and lithology (4th band). This coast has undergone important transformations during the last few years. Because littoral drifts in this sector are dominated by southwesterly flows, breakwaters and other coastal works have caused a progressive advance of erosion downstream of these works.