Sand Movement Along a Portion of the Northern California Coast

Long-term beach and offshore sand movement along the northern California coast between Drakes Bay and Russian River is studied. Analysis of wave, sand and geological data, coupled with known configurations and behavioral processes of stable beaches, suggests little net alongshore movement under present conditions and that beaches are generally in equilibrium with negligible loss. This analysis is confirmed through heavy mineral analysis of surface samples. Point Reyes and Bodega Head are indicated to be effective littoral barriers to alongshore transport. (Author).