Overview
Rhode Island Surfrider implemented the Beachscape program to map Rhode Island's beaches and shorelines. As surfers and coastal enthusiasts, we are often in tune with subtle changes in our coast's health, such as new storm water flow patterns, odd odors, beach erosion hot spots, unrelated dumping and other harmful changes. The Beachscape program compiles these observations and maps coastal features of particular importance to Surfrider such as:
â?¢ General characteristics - land use, garbage, beach width and substrate
â?¢ Beach access - restrictions, fees, limitations, available activities
â?¢ Outfalls - storm drains, industrial outfalls, pipes
â?¢ Surfing areas - popularity and proximity to potential threats such as groins, jetties, and other developments - NOT a tourist guide to local spots!
â?¢ Erosion hotspots - land developments that may be influencing coastal erosion
â?¢ Wildlife and natural areas - coastal wetlands, salt ponds, coral reefs
By collecting this data annually, Surfrider is able to develop baseline data that helps identify patterns and trends in the health of the Rhode Island coastline. Data can also provide substantial support when environmental issues arise.
Beachscape volunteers are assigned blocks of shoreline areas and must fill out one Beach Characterization Form for each area. Although not mandatory, taking photographs of the area greatly enhances the dynamics of the program by helping capture changes over time. Handheld GPS units can also be used to record the location of drainage pipes or other unique features.
Additionally, volunteers are provided a map by the Beachscape Coordinator with a USGS quad map background. The map can be used for volunteers to draw points and features that coincide with the features described in their Beach Characterization Form.
After data is collected, all forms and information is given to the Beachscape Coordinator, who compiles the data for the chapter and sends copies to the National Surfrider office. The National office uses this information for educational purposes and to document issues threatening our country's coastlines. Data is also compiled in the annual "State of the Beach" report found at http://www.surfrider.org/stateofthebeach/home.asp.
Rhode Island Surfrider implemented the Beachscape program to map Rhode Island's beaches and shorelines. As surfers and coastal enthusiasts, we are often in tune with subtle changes in our coast's health, such as new storm water flow patterns, odd odors, beach erosion hot spots, unrelated dumping and other harmful changes. The Beachscape program compiles these observations and maps coastal features of particular importance to Surfrider such as:
â?¢ General characteristics - land use, garbage, beach width and substrate
â?¢ Beach access - restrictions, fees, limitations, available activities
â?¢ Outfalls - storm drains, industrial outfalls, pipes
â?¢ Surfing areas - popularity and proximity to potential threats such as groins, jetties, and other developments - NOT a tourist guide to local spots!
â?¢ Erosion hotspots - land developments that may be influencing coastal erosion
â?¢ Wildlife and natural areas - coastal wetlands, salt ponds, coral reefs
By collecting this data annually, Surfrider is able to develop baseline data that helps identify patterns and trends in the health of the Rhode Island coastline. Data can also provide substantial support when environmental issues arise.
Beachscape volunteers are assigned blocks of shoreline areas and must fill out one Beach Characterization Form for each area. Although not mandatory, taking photographs of the area greatly enhances the dynamics of the program by helping capture changes over time. Handheld GPS units can also be used to record the location of drainage pipes or other unique features.
Additionally, volunteers are provided a map by the Beachscape Coordinator with a USGS quad map background. The map can be used for volunteers to draw points and features that coincide with the features described in their Beach Characterization Form.
After data is collected, all forms and information is given to the Beachscape Coordinator, who compiles the data for the chapter and sends copies to the National Surfrider office. The National office uses this information for educational purposes and to document issues threatening our country's coastlines. Data is also compiled in the annual "State of the Beach" report found at http://www.surfrider.org/stateofthebeach/home.asp.
Beachscape
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