Beach Renourishment

The beach along the oceanfront in Hillsboro Beach, Broward County provides shore protection for erosion caused by waves and other coastal processes. Severe beach erosion is caused by winter storms and hurricanes. However, the constant erosion of our beaches is an undeniable reality.

What is Beach Erosion?

Wind, waves, and currents continually supply and remove sand from the beach. Erosion occurs when these forces remove more sand than they supply. The natural movement of sand on and off the beach and along the coast is disrupted when inlets are created or enlarged, when development is allowed in the active dune, and by the placement of coastal structures like seawalls. Rising sea level and diminishing sand supply also contribute to beach erosion.

How Beach Nourishment Works

Beach nourishment involves pumping or trucking sand onto the beach to rebuild an eroding shoreline. Nourishment is the most natural beach restoration solution. In addition to the aesthetic enhancements, wider beaches enhance recreation, provide storm protection for roads and buildings, and potentially improve sea turtle nesting habitats.

Beach quality sand used for nourishment projects typically comes from offshore sand deposits, inlet shoals or is obtained from inland sources like sand mines.