A number of research projects are underway in the coastal and estuarine waters of the New York Metropolitan Region. Mapping of the Hudson River estuary, by coring and bottom sampling (Figure 1) has provided new information on sediment dynamics sources and sinks. Radiographed box cores are providing new information on the sedimentary structures and depositional-erosional conditions at core sites (Figure 2). Studies are underway to examine the nature and rates of cliff recession on the North Shore as well as erosional and depositional problems on the barrier islands of the South Shore. It is critical to develop good base lines as sea level rises and our coastal areas become more developed (Figure 3). Examination of the near shore portion of the coastal zone is essential to determine the holistic depositional-erosional conditions in the coastal zone (Figure 4).
Figure 1:
Students describe and process samples in the lab of the CUNY research ship Atlantic Twin.
Figure 2:
Students taking a box core in the Lower Bay of New York. The box cores will be cut and radiographed to reveal sediment details.
Figure 3: Laser survey of beach erosion in Southampton NY
Laser surveying of beach and dune features. Repeated surveys establish the erosional and depositional events on the beach.
Figure 4: Survey of nearshore features
Mapping of the near shore zone by divers. These stations on these submarine surveys are located by laser sightings. This research study has established the depositional and erosional conditions seaward of the beach.