From the rocky coast of Maine to the sandy beaches of California, America’s coastlines draw millions of visitors each year. In addition to their beauty, America’s coastal areas also provide numerous recreational opportunities; habitat for hundreds of species of fish, birds and other wildlife; and a livelihood for millions of Americans.

Coasts are dynamic areas, buffeted by storms--some mild and some fierce like hurricanes--that can change the way the area looks and functions over time. Erosion caused by storms eats away at developed land and ocean surges during storms can lead to flooding. Coastal areas and the wildlife that call them home also are impacted upon by natural events and human activities.

The Corps is an important partner in numerous programs and projects designed to help protect the economy and the environment of our nation's coastal areas by reducing the effects of these threats.

Corps coastal protection and restoration projects include:

• beach fills and nourishment to protect against storm surge and wave-generated erosion;
• construction of shore structures, such as sea walls, breakwaters, and revetments, to protect against flooding and erosion; and
• best practices sand management, like regional sediment management.

Learn more about some of our recent activities designed to protect our nation’s coasts.

Making a difference for you!

revised 9 Jan 2009

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Institute for Water Resources | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers