Quaternary Geophysical Framework of the Northeastern North Carolina Coastal System

By E.R. Thieler, D.S. Foster, D.M. Mallinson, E.A. Himmelstoss, J.E. McNinch, J.H. List, and E.S. Hammar-Klose

Abstract

The northeastern North Carolina coastal system, from False Cape, Virginia, to Cape Lookout, North Carolina, has been studied by a cooperative research program that mapped the Quaternary geologic framework of the estuaries, barrier islands, and inner continental shelf. This information provides a basis to understand the linkage between geologic framework, physical processes, and coastal evolution at time scales from storm events to millennia. The study area attracts significant tourism to its parks and beaches, contains a number of coastal communities, and supports a local fishing industry, all of which are impacted by coastal change. Knowledge derived from this research program can be used to mitigate hazards and facilitate effective management of this dynamic coastal system.