Swift Destruction
Residents of Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts, gathered resources to construct a human-made sand dune to shield their homes from coastal erosion. However, the tide swiftly wiped away half of the dune after only three days.
Costly Efforts
The project, costing over $600,000 and organized by Salisbury Beach Citizens for Change, aimed to protect properties from floodwaters that have been increasingly threatening the area.
Engineered Dune’s Purpose
Despite the rapid erosion, ocean engineer Jens Figlus emphasized that the dune served its purpose by safeguarding homes from the storm. Such human-made dunes act as sacrificial barriers, absorbing the impact of rising seas to protect coastal communities.
Future Plans
Following the setback, residents are exploring options like planting dune grass to reinforce the remaining structure. While some are hesitant to invest further, the community remains determined to continue fighting against the forces of nature.