What is the primary source of sand for beach nourishment projects?

The primary source of sand for beach nourishment projects is typically deposits from rivers. This is because rivers naturally carry and deposit sediment, including sand, as they flow towards the ocean. When the sediment reaches the coastline, it often contributes to the formation and maintenance of beaches. For beach nourishment, sediments from river deposits can be harvested and transported to replenish eroded beach areas.

Rivers continuously supply new material to beaches, which helps combat the effects of natural erosion and provide the necessary sediment to maintain the coastal ecosystem. Utilizing river sand is advantageous due to its compatibility in grain size and composition, ensuring that it blends well with existing beach materials.

While other options may involve the use of sand, such as imported sand from other countries or mining from inland quarries, these sources may not be as readily available or suitable for beach nourishment compared to river deposits. Natural erosion of coastal cliffs, while a source of sand, typically does not contribute to significant nourishments directly; instead, it can lead to the loss of beach area.