70% Beaches Eroding

By Sonia Isotov of Maui Now

An assessment of coastal change over the past century has found 70% of beaches on the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, and Maui are undergoing long-term erosion, according to a US Geological Survey (USGS) and University of Hawaiʻi (UH) report released today.

Of the three islands, Maui beaches experienced the highest rates and greatest extent of beach erosion with 85% of beaches eroding…

…“These data have allowed State and County agencies in Hawaiʻi to account for shoreline change as early as possible in the planning and development process so that coastal communities and public infrastructure can be sited safely away from erosion hazards areas,” said William J. Aila Jr., the chairperson of the Hawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources.

“This will vastly improve upon public safety and will ensure that Hawaii’s beautiful beaches will be protected from inappropriate shoreline development.”

Read the rest of the article at Maui Now

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