Ridge and runnel

Beach topography consisting of sand bars that have welded to the shore during the recovery stage after a storm. At low tide, water ponds in the runnels and flows seaward through gaps in the ridge.

Glossary of Terms

Littoral Transport Rate

The rate of transport of sedimentary material parallel or perpendicular to the shore in the littoral zone. Usually expressed in cubic metres (cubic yards) per year. Commonly synonymous with longshore transport rate.

Polluter-pays Principle

The principle adopted by the OECD countries in 1972, requires that the polluter should bear the costs that pollution damage or pollution control impose upon society.

Dune Walkover

Light construction that provides pedestrian access without trampling dune vegetation.

Swash Zone

The zone of wave action on the beach, which moves as water levels vary, extending from the limit of run-down to the limit of run-up.

Isobath

A contour line connecting points of equal water depths on a chart.

Uprush

The rush of water up the foreshore following the breaking of a wave, also called swash or run up.

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Ridge and runnel