Eleven Things an Engineer Thinks a Geologist Should Know About Carbonate Beaches

Exchange of ideas, concepts and scientific knowledge is important to the development of understanding between engineers and geologist. Engineers must understand and incorporate into their studies and designs the fundamentals that the geologist derives from their investigations into beaches and beach materials. As solutions are continually sought to combat the erosion problems around the nation, the design process becomes more complete and inclusive of the natural phenomenon causing the problems and the nature of the materials. Description of the coastal processes and material properties that geologists provide, such as in Komar are fundamental to successful coastal projects. Understanding these concepts is even more important when dealing with carbonate beaches. Carbonate beaches are seldom discussed as part of formal coastal engineering training since most schools are not located near carbonate beaches. To help the geologist determine the most appropriate way that engineers can be aided in understanding the material and process properties, a brief discussion of the engineering process is presented below. Armed with what engineers consider in designing a beach nourishment project, geologist will be better prepared to assist the engineers understanding of the role of the particular characteristics of carbonate material on beaches.