GEOMORPHOLOGIC HISTORY OF THE CAROLINA BAYS

The Carolina Bays are premier examples of a class of geomorphic features known as oriented lakes, characterized by: 1) elliptical shape 2) a general long-axis orientation, 3) sandy shorelines with adjacent aeolian features and 4) common late-stage organic sediment accumulations that, in some cases, can be extensive and in others subtle or substantially altered by oxidation, erosion, fire, or other processes. While the Carolina Bays are clearly unique in terms of their complex development, geomorphic features and photogenic appeal, modern incipient Carolina Bay analogues do occur in other parts of the world. This paper will present an oriented lake development scenario for the Carolina Bays, and other oriented lakes, supported by field measurements, observations and model investigations.