At a Glance

Decades of shoreline performance data inform a proactive coastal strategy that anticipates erosion rather than reacts to it. Coordinated structural enhancements, optimized nourishment timing, and regional sediment management improve storm durability and extend project life. The outcome is a dependable beach system that protects infrastructure, supports habitat, and delivers long-term value for the community.

Year 1990 to Present
Location Edisto Island, SC
Client Town of Edisto, SC
Scope 19,000 linear feet

Stabilizing a Structure-Dependent Shoreline System

Edisto Beach faces persistent erosion driven by regional sand supply losses, aging coastal structures, and highly variable shoreline behavior. Historic groin performance, coarse beach sediment, and changing inlet dynamics create complex, non-uniform erosion patterns that are difficult to manage with one-time projects. Without a long-term, system-wide strategy, risks to infrastructure, recreation, and natural habitats continue to compound over time.

Challenge

Built for Decades, Not Just Seasons

A coordinated restoration strategy aligns groin rehabilitation, targeted extensions, and high-volume nourishment to rebuild and maintain a functional beach system. Projects are guided by continuous monitoring, offshore sand resource development, and performance-based design refinements to optimize results over multiple nourishment cycles. This adaptive, data-driven approach enables the Town to proactively manage risk, extend project life, and sustain shoreline stability under evolving coastal conditions.

Approach

Protecting and Prolonging Coastal Investments

Strategic investments have transformed a historically unstable shoreline into a managed coastal asset capable of performing through storms and long-term erosion pressures. Improved sand retention and structural performance support wider beaches that enhance storm protection, public access, and ecological function. The program establishes a repeatable, defensible path for future funding, regulatory coordination, and sustained coastal resilience.

Impact
Challenge
Approach
Impact

"CSE assists the Town in navigating post-storm assessments and recovery, as well as in implementing a federal project."

Steven Traynum

Steven Traynum

CSE/Project Manager

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