ASBPA’s “Coastal Observation” featuring NJSGC’s Dr. Amy Williams

June 17th, 2019

In the Spring 2019 edition of the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association‘s “Shore & Beach” journal (ASBPA), NJSGC’s Coastal Ecosystems Extension Agent Dr. Amy Williams contributed to a “Coastal Observation” piece about beach erosion in the Outer Banks.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Coastal erosion field trip at the Sea Grant’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Meeting with North Carolina Sea Grant Specialist Spencer Rogers

Amy Williams, Kathleen Fallon, Danielle Swallow

Abstract:

During Sea Grant’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Meeting at the end of March 2018, a group of coastal scientists took advantage of the location on the Outer Banks of North Carolina to view the recent impacts of multiple nor’easters that had wreaked havoc on the coast (Figure 1). “Nor’easters” is the term used for the extratropical cyclones that form during the months between October and April, typically, when cold, dry continental air meets warmer air from the Atlantic Ocean. These storms intensify as they move northeast along the coast, bringing large storm surges and increased wave energy resulting in flooding and beach erosion. Coastal resiliency and flood insurance rates are critical issues to local communities. The Community Rating System, FEMA flood maps, and the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 all play a part in determining the flood insurance rates for homeowners in North Carolina.

Find more information at http://asbpa.org/publications/shore-and-beach/.