The Effect of Beach Width in Shore Protection – A Case Study at Ortley Beach, New Jersey
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Amy Johnson
CoPIs:
Justin Mille
College:
The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics, and Technology
Major:
Environmental Sciences
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Jun Cheng
Abstract:
The Northeastern coast of US, facing the Atlantic Ocean, experienced impacts from passages of two hurricanes in fall 2023, including Hurricane Lee in mid-September followed by Tropical Storm Ophelia in late September. A total of 20 beach profiles spaced by 100 meters each at Ortley Beach and surrounding beaches in Ocean County, New Jersey, were established. Weekly beach surveys using RTK-GPS from the edge of the dune to mean low water was conducted from September 14 to October 12, 2023. The data captures the severe dune/beach erosion induced by the passage of TS Ophelia, with large waves and storm surges. The natural recovery processes of beach post tropical storm were interrupted by the subsequent winter storms starting from mid to late October. The systematic beach survey will be conducted monthly until February 2024, the peak of winter season. Given the context of global climate change, the chance of sequence of storms (tropical or winter storm) have considerably increased. Field observations on beach changes induced by storms will enhance our understanding on beach management.