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Thesis
PERMEABLE AND IMPERMEABLE GROINS ALONG THE NORTHERN YUCATAN COAST
University of West Florida
Master of Science (MS), University of West Florida
2016
Abstract
Coastal erosion is a global problem, and one hard-structural response has been to build groins. Although groins are successful at impounding sediment, improper design can lead to downdrift erosion and even create hazardous rip currents. Along Mexico's Yucatán coast their construction remains common practice. The objectives of this study were 1) to conduct a survey of groins in the Chelem area, and 2) to investigate the impacts of an impermeable groin upon beach sediments, beach morphology, and hydrodynamics. Methods included 1) mapping and developing a typology of groins at Chelem, and 2) constructing a temporary impermeable groin in Sisal, and over a 48-hour period intensely monitoring sediment dynamics and hydrodynamics via transects and sampling (as well as pre- and post-experiment transects). Results showed that 1) groins at Chelem, classed into various types, largely had lost their effectiveness, and 2) the temporary impermeable groin at Sisal, erected during a sea-breeze event, accounted for 59.44 m3 of sediment accretion in 24 hours. Beach recovery occurred rapidly after groin removal, which illustrated the physical resilience of this natural system. Future coastal management in Yucatán needs to consider both the positive and negative impacts of groin construction.
Details
- Title
- PERMEABLE AND IMPERMEABLE GROINS ALONG THE NORTHERN YUCATAN COAST
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Publisher
- University of West Florida
- Format
- text
- Identifiers
- 99380090742906600
- Academic Unit
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Language
- English
- Awarding Institution
- University of West Florida; Master of Science (MS)
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), University of West Florida