Natural System and Location: Barrier beach/dune/wetland complex along the Eastern shore of Lake Ontario, New York
Hypothesis/Goal: Water control structures on the St. Lawrence Seaway have artificially stabilized Lake Ontario water levels thereby reducing the long-shore transport of sand and starving the barrier beach/dune system.
Restoration Strategy: Document the relationship between Lake Ontario water levels, sediment transport, beach and dune creation, and impairment of coastal wetland functions. Use information to alter the operation of St. Lawrence Seaway water control structures to mimic a more natural Lake Ontario flow regime.
Anticipated Outcomes/Environmental Affects: Restoration and maintenance of barrier beach/dune/wetland complex along the Eastern shore of Lake Ontario and improvement in coastal wetland function and diversity.
Progress to Date: Sand transport dynamics study in eastern Lake Ontario has been completed. Net sediment transport is to the north. Nearshore sands are relict and are therefore a finite resource. Lake level changes coupled with wave climate transport sand onshore and offshore. Nearshore dunes serve as a sand sink and when eroded by waves serves to replenish beaches and the nearshore zone with sand. Ontario project manager directly engaged with new IJC Regulated Lake Levels Study.
School of Natural Resources and Environment
Dana Building
430 East University
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1115 riverflows@snre.umich.edu
