Glossary

The environment in which an organism naturally lives or grows; the environment in which the life needs of a plant, animal, population or community are supplied.

A channel with erosion-resistant linings of riprap, paving, or other structural material designed for the conveyance and safe disposal of excess water with erosion.

The action of an upstream moving waterfall or locally steep channel bottom with rapidly flowing water through an otherwise placid stream. These conditions often indicate that a readjustment of a stream’s discharge and sediment load characteristics is taking place.

An area of high elevation more resistant to erosion than surrounding areas and less susceptible to flooding. Headlands can supply sand and gravel to beaches.

Plant species, either annual , or perennial with soft, flexible stems, and no woody parts.

The maximum elevation reached by each rising tide.

Sand dunes located to the rear of the foredune. Characterized by mature vegetation including trees and shrubs.

An intense tropical cyclone with winds that move counterclockwise around a low- pressure system. Maximum sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or greater.

The cross-sectional area of a stream or river divided by the wetted perimeter.

The science of laws governing the motion of water and other liquids and their practical applications in engineering.

The scientific study of water found on the earth’s surface, its subsurface, and in the atmosphere; the science dealing with the properties, distribution and circulation of water and snow.

Water tolerant or water loving.