Saving the Beach
Coastal erosion is a worldwide problem and threatens much of North America’s coastlines and beaches. Studies show that In Massachusetts, over 65% of the coastline is eroding while 86% of California’s 1,120 miles of coastline are actively eroding.
Today, students took a closer look at beach erosion, as they became coastal engineers: brainstorming, planning and designing prototypes to slow beach erosion. The lesson began with a review of what erosion is and what causes a beach to erode. Then students discussed how erosion affects a beach and its ‘stakeholders’. Students worked in small groups to build erosion solutions on their model beaches. Classmates examined and evaluated all of the engineering projects and decided which prototype designs worked the best at protecting the beach.
Take a moment to check out the photos from today’s classes. You will be impressed with the creative engineering solutions!
Dr. Sahr and Dr. Pearl
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