Dune Erosion Model Study PDF Download

This report examines the feasibility of accounting for the processes of erosion and overwash in the determination of coastal high-hazard flood zones, or V-zones. Included in the report are discussions of the merits and limitations of existing theoretical, empirical, and parameterized models for predicting beach profile change and dune erosion. Also included are discussions of the variabil ity found in measured storm changes and an extensive review of the overwash literature. Of the models evaluated, two dune erosion models were found to produce reasonable dune erosion estimates. One model (Kriebel 1982) is based on the assumption of uniform energy dissipation in the surf zone and the concept of an equilibrium profile shape which responds to a rising water level by shifting upward and landward. The other model (Vellinga 1983) was developed from an extensive series of large scale physical model tests. Both of these models were evaluated using 14 profiles from four different storm events and found to produce comparable results. Of the two, the Kriebel model was found to be less demanding in terms of required input information (prestorm profile shape, storm surge height, etc.) and therefore easier to consistently apply. Used properly and in combination with historical data (aerial photographs and field surveys) and engineering judgment, these models can provide a consistent mechanism for the establishment of V-zones in areas prone to storm erosion. (Author).