Mapping Coastal Features

 

Terrestrial surveys using mobile and static Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) systems were completed at the Holgate Unit and Little Beach Island Unit of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in the spring of 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

The study identified geomorphological features: beaches, vegetated dunes, and wash-over/sand flats. These coastal habitats adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean could be home to the Refuge’s shorebirds or other unique species.  These areas were analyzed for changes in shoreline position and elevation of critical habitats.