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January 11, 2007 -

Riprap to be removed in Del Mar

Del Mar (San Diego County), is reportedly planning to remove private erosion barriers on public beaches between 17th and 29th Streets.  From the San Diego Union-Tribune article:

“I think the riprap serves to check the energy of the wave as it’s breaking . . . but as far preventing erosion, I’m doubtful,” said Pat Vergne, Del Mar’s community services director and chief lifeguard, who has observed the city’s beaches for more than 20 years.

Hany Elwany, a coastal engineer affiliated with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, concurred.

“Riprap does not prevent erosion, but it does protect property from storm damage,” he said. “Del Mar’s beaches undergo very large seasonal cycles . . . as much as 150 feet a year, and that is normal.”

 According to the article this does not impact properly engineered seawalls.

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70 Percent Good site focusing on reporting and documenting break conditions for waveriders
Coastal Marine Resource Center Non-profit from the New York-New Jersey Harbor Bight
Free PB Opposition to additional beach regulations at San Diego’s Pacific Beach
Race for the Oceans A forum for swimmers and swimming fans to dive in to ocean conservation.
Surfrider Foundation Activities and campaigns for clean water, beach access, beach preservation and protecting special places.