Sand

Sediment particles, often largely composed of quartz, with a diameter of between 0.062mm and 2mm, generally classified as fine, medium, coarse or very coarse. Beach sand may sometimes be composed of organic sediments such as calcareous reef debris or shell fragments.

Glossary of Terms

Reference Zone

In regard to beach measuring procedure, the part of the foreshore subject to wave action (between the limit of uprush and the limit of backwash) at mid-tide stage.

Siltation

The input of non-calcareous fine-grained sediments to the nearshore marine environment, or the settling out of fine-grained sediments on the sea floor.

The settling of fine-grained particles to the sea bottom.

Shoreline Management

The development of strategic, long-term and sustainable coastal defence and land-use policy within a sediment cell.

Tropical Storm

A tropical cyclone with maximum winds less than 34 m/sec (75 mile per hour). Compare with hurricane or typhoon (winds greater than 34m/sec).

Buffer Area

A parcel or strip of land that is designed and designated to permanently remain vegetated in an undisturbed and natural condition to protect an adjacent aquatic or wetland site from upland impacts, to provide habitat for wildlife and to afford limited public access.

Current, Longshore

The littoral current in the breaker zone that moves essentially parallel to the shore. Usually generated by waves breaking at an angle to the shoreline.

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Sand