Models for Barrier Island Restoration

Abstract

A review is presented of available first level response models for the design of barrier island restoration, including cross-shore and longshore response components. The cross-shore models account for relative sea level rise and beach nourishment; however, the effects of profile lowering beyond the limits of profile equilibration and the associated increase in wave climate are not included. The effects of induced longshore transport on a barrier island of short to moderate length limit the longevity of a nourishment project due to the adjacent inlets acting as sinks and tending to "drain" sand off, thereby maintaining the project effective length as that of the barrier island. In such cases, the longevity can be increased by the use of terminal structures although this requires greater knowledge and consideration of wave direction.