Coastal protection aims to balance the needs of human populations with preserving the natural environment. Approaches include structures, adding sand or stones, and non-structural means. Protection benefits navigable waterways and wildlife. Scientists assess programs and public input is sought.
Coastal protection is a form of environmental policy designed to address coastal erosion or other damage, as well as changes to navigable waterways that make them unsafe or difficult to use. Programs designed to protect coasts must balance the need to preserve the natural environment, recognizing that coasts change naturally over time, with the needs of human populations who wish to use coasts for recreation and other activities. Government agencies are usually responsible for coastal protection, although community organizations may also play a role.
There are a number of approaches people can use to protect coastlines or make them more useful for human activities. Some, like groins and moles, are very old. For centuries, human populations have shaped and controlled the shoreline with various structures that break waves, trap water, prevent sand erosion, and provide a space for docking boats and other vessels.
In addition to installing structures that help control the shoreline, sand or stones can also be added to create barriers or restore a beach, establish plantations to prevent erosion, and use other non-structural means of beach control. The goal of coast protection is usually to help a beach maintain its size, composition and shape. In addition to providing a space for people to enjoy the shoreline, beaches also create a break for waves, protecting adjacent beach structures.
Navigable waterways such as bays and rivers can also benefit from coastal protection. Tackling erosion reduces the amount of sediment settling in waterways and also increases safety by limiting rogue waves and other potential navigational hazards. Coastal protection also protects wildlife that may otherwise be vulnerable to habitat pressures caused by erosion, invasive plants and rough seas.
When a coast protection program is proposed, a number of assessments are made. Scientists determine whether the project is necessary and attempt to estimate the possible impact of the program with the aim of weighing the costs and benefits to make a decision on whether to proceed. They can also develop several options for communities and government regulators to choose from.
There is usually a public comment period on shoreline protection programs. Individuals interested in making a contribution can contact government agencies to express their preference for specific plans or to argue against any type of intervention. Public meetings also provide an opportunity to interact with people involved in the program, ask questions and offer feedback.
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