Reports
Offshore sand resources in northern Maryland shoal fields
2000, Conkwright, R.D.; Williams, C.P.; Christiansen, L.B.
File Reports, Coastal and Estuarine Geology, File Report 2000-02
Abstract
Extensive beach restoration projects on the Maryland coast are placing increased pressure on known offshore sand resources within state waters. Assessment of potential sand resources in Federal waters will encourage both the development of new resources, and further restoration projects. Previous studies suggest that most usable sand deposits will occur within linear shoals on the inner continental shelf. A shoal field in waters off Fenwick Island, MD was sampled for potential sand resources in 1992 and again in 1997. This field, designated Shoal Field I, is located approximately 6.4 kilometers off Fenwick Island at the Maryland-Delaware line. The eastern edge of the shoal field extends to 14.5 kilometers offshore.
Vibracore samples were used to estimate the quality and quantity of sediments contained in the three shoals of Shoal Field I. The following figures represent the minimum amount of sand contained in the shoals, suitable for beach nourishment projects: Fenwick Shoal – 95.8 million cubic meters; Weaver Shoal – 57.6 million cubic meters; Isle of Wight – 72.6 million cubic meters. These sand resources are similar in character to native beach sands found on Assateague and Ocean City, Maryland beaches.
