InTeGrate Modules and Courses >Coastal Processes, Hazards and Society > Student Materials > Section B: The United States > North Carolina Outer Banks > Site B
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These materials are part of a collection of classroom-tested modules and courses developed by InTeGrate. The materials engage students in understanding the earth system as it intertwines with key societal issues. The collection is freely available and ready to be adapted by undergraduate educators across a range of courses including: general education or majors courses in Earth-focused disciplines such as geoscience or environmental science, social science, engineering, and other sciences, as well as courses for interdisciplinary programs.
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Initial Publication Date: December 7, 2016

Site B

Pea Island

Pea Island is a simple barrier island; it is narrow, low-lying, and has a limited amount of sediment. Many storms have recently affected Pea Island and destroyed parts of North Carolina Highway 12. These storms include Hurricane Isabel in 2003 (Category 2), November Nor' Easter in 2009, Hurricane Irene in 2011 (Category 1), and Hurricane Sandy 2012 (Category 1). Perpetual road work and dune construction detracts from the public's ability to enjoy Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.

The weight of one cubic foot of water is 62.5 pounds. Storm surges effectively breach the man-made, vegetation-less dunes of Pea Island. The constant dune construction has allowed little chance for vegetation to grow. American Beach Grass is common in the region. Its roots stabilize the dune and its leaves trap wind-blown sediments. "Barrier island nourishment templates should be a function of project objective. Higher elevations are required for stable location design, whereas lower elevations are suitable for retreat design." (Emphasis added) (Campbell et al. 2005)

Consider these questions:

  1. Why does the North Carolina Department of Transportation build the dunes so high?
  2. Now having a better understanding of the problems along this portion of Highway 12, have you changed your opinion of which bridge is the better option (Parallel bridge or 17-mile bridge)?
  3. By observing the image below 9Figure 6.13), can you estimate the width of this portion of Pea Island? Keep in mind the average width of a highway lane is 12 ft (3.7 m).

Figure 6.13: Pea Island.

Credit: image credit here

These materials are part of a collection of classroom-tested modules and courses developed by InTeGrate. The materials engage students in understanding the earth system as it intertwines with key societal issues. The collection is freely available and ready to be adapted by undergraduate educators across a range of courses including: general education or majors courses in Earth-focused disciplines such as geoscience or environmental science, social science, engineering, and other sciences, as well as courses for interdisciplinary programs.
Explore the Collection »