California Coastal Cleanup Day is an annual event where tens of thousands of volunteers clean up trash from beaches across California to improve the marine environment. It is the largest garbage collection and takes place on the third Saturday in September. The Coastal Commission provides bags, gloves, and tools to volunteers, and the program educates […]
Coastal zones are areas of economic importance at the interface of land and water, constantly changing due to natural forces. They are vulnerable to erosion, pollution, and natural hazards. Defining their boundaries is difficult, and overdevelopment has led to environmental degradation. The best way to preserve them is to minimize human contact and development. A […]
Coastal engineering combines oceanography and engineering to solve structural and environmental problems along coasts. It involves understanding wave activity, erosion, and navigation to protect coastlines and create artificial harbors. Environmental issues and property values are also considered. Coastal engineering has been practiced for thousands of years. Coastal engineering addresses structural and environmental engineering problems along […]
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, […]
Longshore drift is a current that moves parallel to the shore and can cause erosion and sand shortages. It begins when waves hit the beach and carries sand downstream. Building walls or breakwaters can combat erosion, but it can also disrupt the natural ebb and flow of the beach. Longshore drift is a natural process […]
Coastal plains are low-lying areas adjacent to the ocean, with unique habitats and geological features. The largest one stretches along the southern US coast, with rich soil deposits and prone to flooding. They are home to unique plant and animal species and can be studied by geologists for their history and resources. A coastal plain […]
