Can the public visit the CZMU for information?

Yes, an appointment can be made in advance with our resident Library Assistant.

Glossary of Terms

A surface exposure of bare rock, not covered by soil or vegetation.

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.

Precautionary approach

The essence of the approach is expressed in Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration that states "Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason to postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation." The approach is concerned with avoiding risk that has not been assessed, i.e. uncertainty.

Runnel

A corrugation or trough formed in the foreshore or in the bottom just offshore by waves or tidal currents (see ridge and runnel).

Sediment Transport

The main agencies by which sedimentary materials are moved are: gravity (gravity transport); running water (rivers and streams); ice (glaciers); wind; the sea (currents and longshore drift). Running water and wind are the most widespread transporting agents. In both cases, three mechanisms operate, although the particle size of the transported material involved is very different, owing to the differences in density and viscosity of air and water. The three processes are: rolling or traction, in which the particle moves along the bed but is too heavy to be lifted from it; saltation; and suspension, in which particles remain permanently above the bed, sustained there by the turbulent flow of the air or water.

Sediment Source

Point or area on a coast from which beach material is supplied, such as an eroding cliff, or river mouth.

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Can the public visit the CZMU for information?