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Barrier Island Morphology
Oral
Robert Nicholls, BSc, PhD
Professor of Coastal Engineering
University of Southampton
Lauren Burt, BSc, MSCc
Graduate Coastal Engineer
New Forest District Council
Joel Smethurst, MEng, PhD
Associate Professor in Geotechnical Engineering
University of Southampton
Charlotte Thompson, BSc, PhD
Director, Channel Coastal Observatory
Channel Coastal Observatory
This research demonstrates that consolidation can be a significant process on barrier beaches using Hurst Spit, UK as an example. Consolidation influences natural morphodynamics of natural unmanaged barriers and volumetric requirements and approach during beach nourishment. Characterising the geological and geotechnical properties of the back barrier sediments is low cost and simple. Similar investigations at other barrier beaches that provide important protection functions is prudent to assess the potential for consolidation. Rapidly retreating shingle beaches appears especially vulnerable. This could lead to guidance for coastal engineers on when and how to include consolidation in management and design.