Beach Watch 2007
Experts predict active storm season this summer
by  SCOTT SHANLEY
Posted: 2007-06-14

http://www.bayshorenews.com/1/template.php?ID=162


Bayshore residents will be pleased to hear that local beaches are in good condition for the upcoming summer.

However, that does not mean beachgoers are out of the water just yet. Experts throughout the state of New Jersey met recently to discuss remaining coastal and environmental issues at the State of the Shore and More 2007 Press Conference held at Sea Gull's Nest, Sandy Hook, on May 21.

Dr. Jon Miller, a coastal processes specialist at Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, said calm weather conditions throughout the winter have left most of state's coastline unscathed. "The beaches are in excellent condition this year because of a very mild winter storm season," he said.

Miller noted that only two storms, during a period of September through May, generated waves larger than 10 feet. These were the nor'easter that flooded many areas of the Bayshore in March and Hurricane Ernesto of late 2006. Waves created by Ernesto were measured to be approximately 11.2 feet off the coast of Long Beach Island. "Most beaches weathered these storms pretty well," Miller said. "Relatively minor damages were sustained. This allowed the coastline to recover and get ready for the spring and summer."

Although the coast is slated to be in top shape, Miller is unsure of how long it can be maintained. According to him, experts forecasted a very active storm season for this year. Nine hurricanes are predicted to hit the nation over the course of the summer, whereas the average number is five. "The conditions are just right for storms this year," Miller said. "The sea surface temperatures are above average, which provides energy for storms as they form."

Miller admitted, however, that these predictions do not always turn out to be completely accurate. "An active season was predicted last year as well," he said, "but it didn't really materialize. There is only a slight chance that New Jersey will be impacted by tropical storms this season, but we can't be sure. We should be prepared either way."

Expanding public access and protecting coastline

According to New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa Jackson, there are several issues that dictate the overall condition of the shore. Although erosion, rip currents and water quality are prominent aspects that affect the state's 127 miles of coastline expanding public access is one of the top priorities for NJDEP.

Governor Jon S. Corzine recently proposed that new components be added to the Public Trust Doctrine, a document that established the public's right to use tidal waterways and the shore. Jackson said the new rules are aimed to further protect the coastline and expand public access. "Everyone from New Jersey understands the value of its coastline," she said. "Public access belongs to all people. [The Public Trust Doctrine] will touch every aspect of these issues."

The new rules would require developments on or adjacent to tidal waterways and their shores to provide permanent and unobstructed access to both residents and visitors at all times. Regulations would also be set for municipalities, counties, and non-profit organizations to receive Green Acres program funding.

The document states that the revisions will further protect the public's right to use these facilities. It will ensure that parking and restrooms are available at these locations. "These rules only represent what should be done," Jackson said. "This has to be a high priority for the state." According to the commissioner, the proposed decrees are expected to be finalized later this year.

New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium President Dr. Michael P. Weinstein said public access is just one issue that must be further addressed. "This is something we're dealing with more and more every day," he said. "As humans and animals continue to explore our coast we are encountering increased conflicts."

He described humans as being among the most coastally dependent beings in the world. According to him, approximately one-half of the nation's gross national product (GNP) originates from its coastlines. He said further dilemmas are likely to emerge if the economy of the country continues to rely as heavily as it does on income generated by coastal products and agriculture. "How do we buffer our core technologies against nature, while at the very same time persevering the integrity of ecosystems?" he asked. "These are just some of the problems we are still facing."

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