CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Catto, N.R.
Date : 1994
Title : Anthropogenic pressure and the dune coasts of Newfoundland
Publication : Coastal Zone Canada '94, 'Cooperation in the Coastal Zone': Conference Proceedings. Edited by: P.G. Wells and P.J. Ricketts. Coastal Zone Canada Association, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Issue : 5:
Page(s) : 2266-2286
Abstract
Sandy littorals backed by aeolian transverse, dome and parabolic dunes are present along several areas of Newfoundland's coast, including Sandbanks Provincial Park (Burgeo), Cheeseman Provincial Park (Port-au-Basques), Western Brook outlet (Gros Morne National Park), Portland Creek (Northern Peninsula), Salmon Cover (Conception Bay), and lance Cove. All of these regions have been subjected to multiple anthropogenic uses in recent years. All are marked by moderate to extreme coastal erosion, enhanced sediment mobility, and degradation of the dunal morphology and environment. The coastal dunes developed during the mid-Holocene, in response to lowered sea levels and availability of fine sand. Mid-Holocene climate was milder than that of the present, retarding the development of coastal peat veneers and blankets and increasing the influx of terrestrial sediment. Under current climatic conditions, development of aeolian dunes is hindered, and hence these features are essentially relict and will not regenerate under the present environmental conditions. Anthropogenic pressures include utilization of the dunal areas for recreation (involving powered vehicles, horses and foot traffic); aggregate extraction; sheep herding and rearing; and waste disposal. Comprehensive policies for the management of these coastal dune areas are lacking in Newfoundland. All of the coastal dune areas, including those within provincial and national park boundaries; are currently under several forms of anthropogenic pressure, and are eroding in consequence. Rates of erosion vary from 0.1 m/a to in excess of 2 m/a. Removal of the dunal sediment from the coastlines, and lack of replenishment from the terrestrial hinterlands, has resulted in recently enhanced erosion of the coastlines.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology