Events

February Beach Fill Event Educates & Informs

February 2008

On February 21st, the South Jersey Chapter hosted an educational event focusing on dispelling the myths of beach replenishment. Featuring a panel of local experts including:

During the event, attendees were fortunate to hear from each speaker who offered unique perspectives on beach fill. Robert, Dan and Steve all surf and focused their comments towards the concerns of surfers. Robert stressed that citizens groups need to work cooperatively with governing bodies to avoid adversarial relationships and work on developing adjustments (i.e. pitch and slope) to the replenishment plan that can be implemented to minimize negative impacts. Dick updated the group on upcoming beach fill activities in Ocean City, which should begin by the end of April and last for 60 days, covering areas from 12th Street north. He also gave us a perspective on the purpose of jetties, their purpose to stabilize inlets and his findings in studying the Brigantine jetty. Glen focused on the costs of beach fill and the lack of quality beach sand; he also directed attendees to check out www.noaa.gov where there is a wealth of information on the topic. Chris gave a wonderful, yet quirky PowerPoint presentation on the pros and cons of beach replenishment. Finally, Dave presented his senior project on artificial reefs, which focused on a new type that uses large sand-filled bags that also serve as habitat for ocean life. In addition, the presentation offered details on how the bags can be angled for optimum efficiency, based upon predominant swells.

The South Jersey Chapter would like to thank all of our local experts for helping us to better understand the strengths and weaknesses of this often divisive issue, not to mention our attendees for being interested and involved.

Lastly, a big a "Thank You" goes to Donna Michalak, Chapter Secretary, for stepping up and making this year's winter educational event happen.