Barrier Islands and Coastal Management

Dr. Doug Elmore discusses the dynamics and challenges of barrier islands, focusing on their movement, erosion, and the impact of storms. He explains various coastal protection methods like seawalls, breakwaters, and beach replenishment, highlighting their limitations. The video also covers the effects of storms, such as Hurricane Ike, on barrier islands and the importance of understanding these natural processes.

What is the primary composition of the beach in Louisiana as described in the video?

• Clay and silt

• Sand with symmetrical ripples

• Pebbles and rocks

• Coral and shells

What is a common feature found in the marsh area of barrier islands?

• Fecal pellets

• Desert sand

• Coral reefs

• Volcanic rocks

What significant change occurred to the barrier islands between 1887 and 1988?

• They remained unchanged

• They expanded seaward

• They moved landward

• They became more elevated

How does a seawall affect the movement of a barrier island?

• It accelerates landward movement

• It prevents any movement

• It causes the island to move seaward

• It slows down landward movement

What is a major drawback of using seawalls for coastal protection?

• They concentrate wave energy

• They increase beach area

• They are environmentally friendly

• They are inexpensive to maintain

What is the purpose of building groins on beaches?

• To promote marine life

• To increase wave energy

• To create artificial reefs

• To trap longshore drift

What is a significant disadvantage of beach replenishment?

• It is cost-effective

• It is a temporary solution

• It increases erosion

• It is a permanent solution

What was a notable effect of Hurricane Ike on Galveston Island?

• Complete preservation of all houses

• Minimal damage to structures

• Destruction of many houses

• Increased beach area

What is one suggested solution for houses close to the beach to avoid storm damage?

• Build a higher seawall

• Move the house inland

• Reinforce the house with steel

• Construct a new house on stilts

What does Orrin Pilkey suggest about human intervention on barrier islands?

• It is always beneficial

• It often counteracts natural processes

• It has no impact

• It accelerates island formation