We're Running Out of Sand?!

While some beach erosion is caused by natural forces, most erosion is attributed to human contribution caused by construction and repairing of navigation inlets.  Although these inlets provide a high economic value for Florida’s economy, the damage from new construction causes sand to pile up on one side of the jetty but not the other.  This constant maintenance and construction is taking its toll on Florida’s pristine beaches. 

One way to preserve eroded beaches is through beach nourishment.  Beach renourishment projects have become more widespread throughout the country and have become a very important goal for the state of Florida.  According to Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection, out of Florida’s 825 miles of beaches, roughly 485 miles, or approximately 59% of Florida’s beaches, are experiencing erosion.  In a typical beach nourishment project, sand is collected from an offshore location by a dredge.  A mixture of sand and water is then piped onto the beach. Once the water drains away, bulldozers smooth and adjust the new sand until the beach matches the design profile.

Florida’s beach fill program typically costs around $100 million per year, with the federal government picking up at least half, Florida spending $30 million, and local governments contributing the rest.  But as time passes, money is not the only issue of concern.  Believe it or not, the lack of sand is what is becoming the main problem.  Because of damning rivers and building harbors, less sediment is being replenished offshore.  Miami-Dade County has already felt the effects of disappearing sand by having to borrow from northern Florida counties.  It is reported that Miami-Dade County is officially out of off shore sand.  It is only a matter of time before the nourishment projects cease to exist due to a lack of sand attributed to factors such as rising sea level and constant slamming of strong storms and hurricanes each year.  With future decisions regarding sand and shoreline replacement up in the air, combined with the continuing advances in expanding sea harbors, damning and severe weather, the future of Florida’s immaculate and perfect beaches remain in question for future decades.  

-Adam Gruszcynski, Legal Intern