Shoreline Erosion, Essay Example

Shorelines are temporary geologic and topographic features on earth’s surface. Shoreline erosion is one of the leading causes to the changes in the geological surface of the earth. “Although sea level rise is not thought to cause significant beach erosion in itself, higher water levels in combination with wind-driven waves can cause severe erosion” to the structure of the earth surrounding the shore (Climate Change Shoreline Erosion). Aside from rising sea levels and storm damage, which can cause drastic, but often temporary damage, the shifting of deposits on the bottom of oceans, lakes and other bodies of water is also a cause for concern.

Perhaps the most threatening force affecting shorelines is the subtlest and easiest to look past. “The simple lapping of ripples and loosening of saturated soils pulls soil particles apart just below the water surface; therefore, much of the bank erosion is occurring below the water level where it goes unseen until the exposed part of the bank slumps” (Shoreline Extension: Clemson University, 2011). On a daily basis, the shorelines of every ocean, lake and bay are eroding by themselves due to the shifting of deposits on the bottom of their surface.

Features of a contemporary depositional and erosional shoreline include landforms, sand dunes, vegetation, fluctuating water levels and rock formations. Depending on the location, and the amount of erosion, certain soil will be exposed at the particular site, and possibly minerals. Some plants may even be able to grow in certain types of eroded environments.

References

“Climate Change Shoreline Erosion.” Climate Change Shoreline Erosion. The Official State of Delaware, n.d. Web. 10 May 2013. http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/ClimateChange/Pages/ClimateChangeShorelineErosion.aspx

“Shoreline Erosion : Extension : Clemson University : South Carolina.” Shoreline Erosion : Extension : Clemson University : South Carolina. Clemson State University, n.d. Web. 10 May 2013. http://www.clemson.edu/extension/natural_resources/water/stormwater_ponds/shoreline_erosion/index.html