Surveying the Aftermath

Barrier islands are narrow, sandy landscapes oriented parallel to a mainland that are formed by waves and currents depositing sediment. They protect shorelines by absorbing storm energy and creating calm backbays, marshes, and lagoons that support unique and vital wildlife, fisheries, and ecosystems. However, the dynamic environments that create barrier islands can just as readily destroy them. The islands are susceptible to damage and breaching by storms and sea-level rise; as channels widen, migrate, or begin to close, coastlines are reshaped, and tidal exchanges are altered. Barrier islands are also particularly vulnerable to human development.