Glossary of Terms

The deposition of sediment, sometimes indicated by the seaward advance of a shoreline indicator such as the water line, the berm crest, or the vegetation line.

The portion of the littoral system that is frequently (daily or at least seasonally) subject to transport by wind, waves, and currents.

A sudden increase in the amount of marine algae (seaweed) often caused by high levels of phosphates, nitrates, and other nutrients in the nearshore area.

(Also called introduced, exotic, or non-indigenous species) - A species that has been transported by human activity, intentionally or accidentally, into a region where it does not occur naturally.

Parallel to and near the shoreline (also referred to as longshore).

Refers to an environment that contains little or no dissolved oxygen and hence little or no benthic marine life. These conditions often arise in deep water locations where physical circulation of seawater is limited.

Originating from human activities.

The cultivation of aquatic organisms.

Permeable geological formation through which groundwater can flow and from which groundwater can be readily extracted. (See also Groundwater).

The placement of fixed engineering structures, typically rock or concrete, on or along the shoreline to reduce coastal erosion. Armoring structures include seawalls, revetments, bulkheads, and rip rap (loose boulders).