Applying Concepts of Coastal Resiliency in North Pond, Sandy Creek, NY

Session: Ecosystem-Based Management: Challenges and Opportunities on the Great Lakes Coasts

David Klein, The Nature Conservancy, [email protected]
Thomas Hart, Skidmore College, [email protected]
Geoffrey Steadman, Geoffrey Steadman Consulting, [email protected]

Abstract

The North Pond Resiliency Project is a collaborative, multi-partner effort for beach nourishment, habitat enhancement, and navigation improvements on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario. Now entering its implementation phase, the project began with scientific evaluation of this highly dynamic shoreline, analysis of coastal resiliency issues, and development of EBM recommendations. North Pond is sheltered from the lake by three miles of barrier beaches and sand dunes that experienced significant erosion during 2017’s high lake levels. The hydrologic connection between the pond and lake is a narrowing channel tending to closure with increasingly adverse impacts on small craft navigation and water circulation. Sand captured in a large shoal inside the pond is removed from the natural longshore system and no longer contributes to natural processes of beach nourishment and dune-building. With an increased understanding of the coastal processes shaping this barrier system, hydraulic dredging of the channel and shoal is planned to restore sand to the beach and dunes. Multiple benefits are anticipated, including: increased shoreline resilience to storms; reduction of shoreline hardening; restored beach and dune habitat; increased operational life of the navigation channel; and enhanced water circulation. Project implementation engages the community through the North Pond Resilience Committee.