Folletts Island (FI) is the most vulnerable section of the Texas Coast and experiences alarming rates of erosion, with shoreline retreat ranging from 30 – 320 m since 1978. As the main goal of this study we propose to modify and calibrate a process-based numerical model to predict cross-shore morphology changes of entire barrier island systems. We intend to quantify historic morphology changes of FI as well as hypothetical future changes based on numerical model simulations. This will be accomplished using an existing cross-shore morphology change model in combination with the collection and evaluation of high-resolution bathymetry, topography, hydrodynamic, and sediment concentration data. One of the main results from this study will be the provision of a decision-making tool for coastal managers and stakeholders to assess local risk vulnerability of a barrier island system and aid in long-term planning for development and beach nourishment, as well as dune and marsh restoration efforts that will keep the entire system at a healthy balance to protect the Texas coast and preserve the barrier island – bay ecosystem.
Title
If We Lose Follet’s Island, We Lose Coastal Communities and Christmas Bay: A Geological Framework and Numerical Model Study of the Sustainability of Follet’s Island
Investigators
Jens Figlus (PI)
Timothy Dellapenna (Co-PI)
Duration
2/1/2014 – 1/31/2018
Amount
$261,793