Geomorphic Engineering

Wave Erosion

Wave Protection

Slumping

Home

Seawalls have been used all around the world.  They can be something as simple as a retaining wall located on a small private lake to the huge barrier systems that protect the world’s harbors.  They can be constructed from different materials ranging from wooden boards and pillars in the infancy of the seawall to steel and concrete structures that cause millions of dollars to build today.  The main purpose a seawall is to prevent wave erosion from wearing away at the piece of property behind it.  They are actually very effective in this respect.  The unfortunate thing that can happen is that any type of natural beach there could be is quickly washed away from the breaking of the waves against the wall.  Another unfortunate side effect of seawalls is the erosion they may cause to surround properties that may not have the protection of a seawall.

Fig1.  Diagram of the area, in particular the seawall and the erosion
that is occurring on the private properties beach.

Fig2.  A Clear picture of the older stone seawall and the effect of the protective ability of the wall. 
The area behind the wall is perfectly protected and significantly different from the neighboring beach

Fig3.  A side view of the retaining wall and the difference in beach level between properties.

Fig4.  A diagram from the US Army Corp of Engineers showing
the effect the seawall has on the natural beach environment.

By Adam Rubach

Top