The Wearing Away of Sand Beaches

Abstract

THE rate of erosion of cliffs and land bordering on the sea, caused by the action of the waves, has been the subject of frequent investigation, and numerous records exist as to the rate at which the land is being encroached on by the sea. On low flat coasts the means of ascertaining the result of the contest between the sea and the land is more difficult to ascertain. The ordinary means of measurement is by a comparison of old charts, which are seldom trustworthy for this purpose. These charts being for navigable purposes, the depth of the water and the position of objects on shore forming sea marks were the subjects for which accuracy alone was required. The same remarks apply to old plans of estates and manors which were intended to delineate the property of the owners, the sea shore below high water not being a matter requiring trustworthy accuracy.