Dr. Laura Moore
Coverage of Dr. Laura Moore in the Nexus archive.
- What it would mean to end the state’s decades-long sea walls ban
North Carolina lawmakers are considering ending a decades-long ban on sea walls to address coastal erosion, as dozens of homes have collapsed in Buxton and Rodanthe. The Coastal Resources Commission Science Panel highlighted that while such structures can prevent erosion, they may shift damage to other areas. Two Senate bills aiming to revise the state's sea wall ban are currently progressing through legislative committees.
- NC science panel urges caution in use of hardened structures to protect coastline
North Carolina's Coastal Resources Commission Science Panel advises caution in using hardened structures like seawalls and jetties to combat coastal erosion, noting adverse effects such as increased erosion in adjacent areas and reduced sand supply for beaches. The panel's report highlights tradeoffs between different shoreline stabilization methods, including terminal groins and beach nourishment, while lawmakers consider repealing a longstanding ban on seawalls.