Beach Haven and Little Egg Inlets, A Case Study

A comprehensive investigation of coastal processes active within and in the vicinity of Beach Haven and Little Egg Inlets was completed as part of the Coastal Processes Investigation for the proposed Atlantic Generating Station. The suspected complex nature of this dual natural inlet system was documented and a process-response model is presented to relate the more significant physical forcing functions to observed morphologic and hydraulic changes. A rising sea level, a net littoral drift from the north and the sediment scouring power of the flow in the two main channels serving the tidal basins are the principal factors related to the geographic and hydraulic stability of the system. The results of the study can be used to evaluate the potential impact, if any, of the proposed Atlantic Generating Station on the adjacent coastal environment.