September 13, 2017
Beach Debris Removal and Post Irma Beach Report #3
Beach Debris Removal Notice
Debris removal crews will begin cleaning up the beach tomorrow. They will start on the east end near the Ocean Course Clubhouse and work in sections to the west. You can expect to see heavy equipment entering and moving along the beach.
While the beach is not closed, patrons should avoid the areas where clean-up crews are working. If you are asked by personnel to relocate, please give them your full cooperation so the process can move as quickly as possible.
Post Irma Beach Report
Overall, Kiawah’s beach suffered moderate erosion during Hurricane Irma, but no homes were impacted by erosion or ocean flooding. Kiawah’s extensive dune system performed its role exactly as it should have. The role of dunes is to sacrifice themselves to protect inland areas and this is exactly what occurred.
Our beach had been accreting rapidly over the last year and a series of new, low dunes had formed extending 30-50 feet beyond the erosion line from last fall. These new dunes were lost during the storm and the island’s main dune line eroded an additional 5-15 feet in most areas. Town staff conducted a preliminary assessment on September 12 and is working closely with our beach consultant, Coastal Science and Engineering, to gather additional data and develop formal recommendations. Additional survey work will likely be completed in the coming weeks to assist in this effort.
Beaches are extremely resilient and eroded sand will slowly make its way back up onto our beaches to begin the natural dune rebuilding process. Aerial footage of most of the beachfront was taken on September 12 and is provided below. Still Photos: Pre-Irma Photos | Post-Irma Photos
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