Glossary

Plant always found growing in wetlands under natural conditions (may persist in nonwetlands that have been drained or if planted there.)

Also known as a longshore bar. Submerged sandbar formed offshore by the processes of beach erosion and accretion. Typically, swell waves break on the offshore bar.

Offshore structure built parallel to the beach to protect the beach and/or reduce wave action in inshore waters.

The process whereby sediment is moved onshore and offshore by wave, current and wind action.

The mark along a streambank where the waters are common and usual. This mark is generally recognized by the difference in character of the vegetation above and below the mark or the absence of vegetation below the mark.

A structure designed to control erosion at the outlet of a channel or conduit by reducing flow velocity and dissipating flow energy.

Water flowing over the top of the bank.

Material (organic or inorganic) that provides protection to fish or other aquatic life from above.

The uprush and overtopping of a coastal dune by storm waters. Sediment is usually carried with the overwashing water and deposited, usually in a fan shape, on the landward side of the dune or barrier.

Portion of a former riverbed when the bend is cut off from the main stream in a U-shaped form.