COASTLINES AT A CROSSROAD: ROLE OF SCIENCE AND VALUES

Science can offer a number of solutions to minimize coastal erosion. The solution we select will reflect our values.

With an expected rise in sea level of at least 0.5 to 1.0 m by the end of this century, beach erosion will become an ever-growing problem, particularly along coasts where there is little wiggle room between the sea and human development. We are at a crossroad with respect to sustainable beach management. Global change research suggests that sea level will continue to rise in coming decades. Difficult decisions will be necessary if sea level rises 1.0 m by the end of the century. I am an advocate of being proactive concerning future change, and not making radical changes without careful evaluation and consideration of consequences. Use of hard structural control of beach erosion to protect present critical structures will become increasingly necessary as sea level rises. What degree of protection we will provide for homes, parks and other noncritical development, and what development is deemed critical will reflect our values. Therefore, clarification of values is an important early step in outlining a beach management program to address coastal erosion. Values clarification is often difficult due to conflicting values about what is important.

Potential effects of sea level rise on coastal erosion during the next 50 years can be estimated using principle the present is the key to the future. Observations during King Tides and El Nino events that occur with elevated sea level can serve as an indication of what to expect with sea level rise in the next 50+ yrs.

We will address the issue of beach erosion with the controversial case history of Goleta Beach Park near Santa Barbara, California. Should we save the beach or save the park? Our choice reflects our values.