Date of Award
Spring 4-15-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
April 2026
Department
Environmental Sciences
College Granting Degree
Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Department Granting Degree
Environmental Sciences Program
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Tiffany Roberts Briggs
Abstract
Living shorelines, or nature-based solutions, have emerged as a preferred approach to coastal restoration, but have not been well studied or monitored postimplementation. This project evaluated the efficacy of living shorelines in protecting and stabilizing coastal morphology in Palm Beach County’s Lake Worth Lagoon. The study assessed surface and subsurface sedimentology, short-term water-level variability, and morphological change at two living shoreline areas of Jewell Steinhardt Cove and Snook Islands Natural Area. Each shoreline area has different breakwater designs aimed at stabilizing the shoreline with recruitment of oysters and mangroves in the Lake Worth Lagoon. Overall, seasonal morphology and sediment data show stable shorelines at both sites. The living shoreline breakwaters were shown to dissipate waves to keep the shoreline stable, thus helping to protect the coastal morphology. By documenting the environmental impacts of living shorelines, this study contributes valuable insight for coastal management strategies aimed at mitigating erosion.
Recommended Citation
Garber, Sydney, "IMPACT OF LIVING SHORELINES ON COASTAL MORPHOLOGY AND SEDIMENTOLOGY" (2026). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 304.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/304