Directions for Using the Hard Copies of the Shoreline Change Maps and Data

Follow the steps listed below to identify the shoreline you would like to examine and to interpret the maps and corresponding data tables:

• Locate the shoreline area you are interested in on the index map.

• Using road maps, topographic maps, and/or aerial photographs, locate the site you are interested in on the shoreline change map you selected.

• On the shoreline change map, identify the transect number(s) closest to the site of interest.

• In the corresponding data table(s), look up the transect number(s) of interest. To provide context, CZM strongly recommends that you take note of the patterns of shoreline change on either side of the transect(s) you are examining.

• From the data table(s), note the positional changes (+ denotes accretion and - denotes erosion) and the corresponding rates between each of the shoreline date(s) to determine the trends represented by each time period (e.g., constant accretion or erosion, alternating cycles of accretion or erosion, changes in the rates of accretion or erosion, etc.).

• With these numbers in mind, look at the colored shorelines on the map to identify any patterns of shoreline change in the area of interest. The magnitude and consistency (or variability) of change along the shoreline are important indicators of how dynamic the section of shoreline is, an important observation that should be considered when formulating conclusions about future shoreline positions.

• Consider any human alterations along the shoreline that may have affected sediment transport patterns in the section of interest (e.g., seawalls or other armor on the updrift coastal banks or other sediment sources, jetties at an inlet, groins along the shoreline, etc.).

• Consider the accuracy of the mapping methods and the potential error associated with them relative to the amount of change reflected in the data table(s).

• Remember that shoreline position measurements for various time periods can be used to derive quantitative estimates of the average rate of shoreline change. These rates can be used to further understanding of the magnitude and timing or shoreline change in a geologic or scientific context, as well as the evolution of coastal environments in response to wave and current processes. (Note: The information depicted on the maps and in the data tables does not reflect short-term erosion that occurs during storms.)

• This review will give you a good sense of how the shoreline of interest has behaved over time, and may provide an indication of future shoreline behavior. However, professional expertise is necessary when attempting to use these maps and data for planning purposes.