Post-Storm Evaluation of Coastal Armoring Structures: Lessons Learned from the 2004 Hurricanes

Following the 2004 hurricane season a performance based evaluation was completed of coastal armoring structures throughout the state of Florida. The purpose of this evaluation was to determine the survivability of armoring structures and identify common causes of failure including loss of foundation, insufficient penetration depths, scour, flanking of returns and overtopping. The evaluation included a compilation and review of available data in order to identify and characterize coastal armoring structures which sustained damage as a result of the hurricane. From this review, one hundred and eleven armoring structures were identified statewide. These results were used by statewide regulatory agencies in processing permit requests. A literature review was conducted to identify published findings regarding the performance of coastal armoring structures. Five studies were chosen and compared to the results of this evaluation.