The primary goal of the beach management plan is to reestablish a naturally sustainable beach/inlet system that includes an adequate storm buffer as well as a source of sediment for downdrift beaches.  The plan includes an evaluation of the physical processes, a conceptual design for the preferred alternative(s), permitting of the selected alternatives, and appropriate beach maintenance and usage.  Beach nourishment design is based on the historical shoreline change information and an evaluation of local wave and sediment transport patterns in the nearshore zone.  An alternatives analysis is being performed to consider engineering aspects, as well as environmental impacts, of each possible solution.  The alternatives analysis focuses on producing the most viable and most appropriate solution for each section of the Sandwich shoreline.

In addition, the Sandwich Harbor inlet recently breached immediately east of the historic channel.  Stabilization of the inlet is required to reduce the potential for upland flooding, minimize downdrift erosion, and stabilize inlet migration.  Woods Hole Group performed a bathymetric survey, an inlet stability analysis, and a hydrodynamic model to assess the present stability of the inlet and evaluate potential alternatives.  Based on the results of the inlet alternative analysis, an engineered solution will be designed and implemented.

Communication and close coordination with numerous agencies, local officials, sub-contractors, and multiple Clients is essential to the successful completion of this project.  Our Scientists and Engineers regularly meet with the key officials and proactively participate in public forums where the interests of Sandwich beaches are addressed.