Programme Design

A wide range of coastal process data is needed for shoreline management. Ideally, regular surveys of the various variables should be conducted at consistent (dense) spatial and (frequent) temporal scales. This idealistic approach cannot be sustained or justified financially however, and a reasoned method of sampling must be designed to provide best value for money.

The survey programme has been designed on a risk basis, developed from a conceptual model of data requirements. More data is generally required at those sites that are most vulnerable or heavily managed. Although the spatial and temporal coverage of data collection varies across the region, the risk-based approach has been applied consistently across the region.

For each management unit a risk probability index was calculated based on values assigned to each of three specific indicators.

• Source - Exposure to wave attack and water level range
• Pathway - Shoreline composition, defence form and condition
• Receptor - Land use/environment status

The programme has been developed to date with the aim of providing a service that:

• Recognises the most appropriate spatial level for collection/analysis of data
• Provide guidance on procurement of external services
• Provides, where appropriate, a standardised method for recording, presenting and reporting
• Provide a vehicle for exchange and dissemination of data, analysis etc in suitable formats for use by end users, using appropriate technological interfaces.
• Provides appropriate linkages to research and studies at national, regional and local levels.