Wrack placement to augment constructed dunes: A field investigation

Natural and nature-based features have become increasingly popular in recent years for several reasons including reduced costs maintenance, sustainability, ecological benefits. One such feature which contributes to coastal resiliency is dune systems. Extensive research shows that systems provide great value protection, with vegetation belowground biomass emerging as crucial factors stability. Alternative construction maintenance methods are needed improve the resilience stability of these Wrack, macroalgae naturally washes up along coast, often removed during routine beach but could serve increase biomass, sand trapping, overall resiliency. This manuscript documents preliminary results following placement wrack constructed dunes on Mississippi mainland coast. Terrestrial lidar surveys were used evaluate morphological responses a 550 m stretch beach, varying raking management practices implemented designated sections. Elevation volumetric change calculated from data compared across storm erosion fair-weather recovery periods quantify potential benefits utilizing natural material reducing raking.