Moriches Inlet: A Problem in Beach Evolution

Abstract

IN February of this year, during one of the severe storms that characterized the past winter, an inlet broke through the barrier beach that separates Moriches Bay, on the south coast of Long Island, from the ocean. The occurrence raises interesting engineering and economic questions relative to beach conservation, particularly in view of the present and potential value of the land in this vicinity. The section of beach east of Fire Island Inlet, the scene of this action, is an important potential part of New York City's playground. It is nearer the city than any other ocean beach not yet extensively developed. The economic and social factors in the situation increase the importance of the physiographic problem. He would be a rash prophet indeed who attempted to predict definitely what the situation will be at any point of this sandy cordon twenty or thirty years in the future; but, drawing on past experience, one can outline the probabilities. The inlet may close almost as suddenly as it opened. That has happened to a considerable number of inlets cut by storm waters and has been the disappointing outcome of a number of attempts to open inlets by artificial means. If closing is to occur, however, it is to be expected promptly: if such an inlet remains open long enough to establish an equilibrium it tends to be permanent.