Zeta bays, pocket beaches and headland control.

Abstract

The now familiar equilibrium shape of a bay sculptured by waves between headlands can indicate to man the direction he could follow in stabilizing shorelines. The characteristics of these crenulate or zeta shapes are known and can be applied in design or defining limits of erosion. Some natural settings are discussed which introduce difficulties in identifying the correct bay shapes for applying these tools. The application of headland control to specific cases of instability is presented. The final requirement is emphasized of aiding Nature to protect the coastline by the formation of the offshore bar and its subsequent return to the beach without concurrent downcoast drift. The method currently receiving widespread support of placing offshore breakwaters in close proximity to each other is discounted as a viable protective alternative. (A)