Longshore Sediment Interruption and Bypassing of a Multipurpose Artificial Reef - Preliminary Results

Abstract

Nearshore morphological changes and sand bypassing of multipurpose artificial reefs (MAPR) are still under reported in the literature. This research aims to further understand the bypassing of a MPAR to inform maintenance campaigns and construction of similar structures. Therefore, it was subdivided into three main parts: 1) long-term data analysis; 2) short-term data analysis and; 3) numerical modelling. This paper presents the preliminary results of this research focused on the first part. The results indicate that the reef has an overall positive impact on the upper beach with a minor negative downdrift effect. Most of the reef impact occurs in the nearshore and updrift sand trapping has been observed. Downdrift of the reef an accumulation of sand has also been observed in the nearshore. Preliminary assessment suggests that this is likely related to longshore bars intersecting or bypassing the reef. The next steps of this research are also presented.