Shoreline Change Along the South Carolina Coast

Shoreline erosion/accretion rates were determined for the Atlantic coast extending from Tybee Island, GA. along the entire South Carolina coast to Cape Fear, NC. Approximately 130 years of historical shoreline positions were digitized from 30 base maps produced by the National Ocean Service. Shoreline change was greatest and most variable along the barrier island segment of coastline. Mainland 'arcuate strand' beaches were most stable. Erosion strongly dominated along the southern most barrier islands, the Santee River delta, and north of Cape Fear. Accretion dominated along barriers north of Charleston Harbor. Shoreline change appears to correlate well with inlet position and maximum significant wave height. Geology, sediment supply, and human factors also influence local shoreline changes.