Overwash

Transport of the sediment landward of the active beach by coastal flooding during a tsunami, hurricane, or other event with extreme waves.

The part of the uprush that runs over the crest of a berm of a structure and does not flow directly back to the ocean or lake.

The effects of waves overtopping a coastal defence, often carrying sediment landwards which is then lost to the beach system.

Glossary of Terms

Diffuse Sources of Pollution

(Also called non-point sources) Multiple, not easily identifiable sources of pollution (e.g., agriculture, urban areas).

Coastal Erosion

The wearing away of coastal lands, usually by wave attack, tidal or littoral currents, or wind. Coastal erosion is synonymous with shoreline (vegetation line) retreat.

Mean Sea Level (MSL)

The average height of the surface of the sea for all stages of the tide over a 19-year period, usually determined from hourly height readings. Not necessarily equal to mean tide level. It is also the average water level that would exist in the absence of tides.

Wave, Reflected

That part of an incident wave that is returned seaward when a wave impinges on a steep beach, barrier, or other reflecting surface.

Port

A place where vessels may discharge or receive cargo; it may be the entire harbour including its approaches and anchorages, or only the commercial part of a harbour where the quays, wharves, facilities for transfer of cargo, docks, and repair shops are situated. Protection may be provided by natural or artificial features.

Current, Littoral

Any current in the littoral zone caused primarily by wave action; e.g., longshore current, rip current.

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Overwash