Discussion w/ Town of Duck RE Beach Erosion

A call was had today with the Town (Drew Havens, et al).  It went well.  Here's a brief summary of what we discussed:

1. The Town is aware of the beach condition.  There's erosion/escarpment in multiple places throughout Town.
2. The biggest erosion/escarpment in Town is in Carolina Dunes CD), especially in the northern end of CD.  While that's unfortunate, it's not different from past erosion/escarpment events.
3. There are two rows of sand fences throughout most in CD, on the east side of the dune.  Some of the fences closest to the ocean have been damaged and will need to be repaired/replaced.  The Town will handle this, probably starting around Easter.
4. The dune itself is still mostly intact and is still providing a protective barrier to oceanfront homes and structures.  There's no immediate danger of damage to homes and structures.
5. The CD access points:
   • Sprigtail.  Erosion/escarpment is high here.  To be safe, avoid using this access.
   • Canvasback/Wood Duck.  Erosion/escarpment is high but slightly less here.  To be safe, however, avoid using this access.
   • Widgeon.  Erosion/escarpment is much smaller here, so far.  Most people can reasonably use this access.  So, everyone is encouraged to use this access point at this time.
6. Depending upon future wind and weather, more erosion/escarpment may occur over the next several months.  
7. Mitigation steps:
   • Short term (now).  There's not a lot that can be done.  However, anyone can install posts&ropes or posts&rails if they want.  No permit is required.  However, installation of steps (anywhere in the nourishment area) is not allowed.  Sand pushes are also not allowed.  As hardy people use all of the access walkways, they will naturally wear a path to the beach over time.  Foot traffic will reduce the extreme escarpment and may make it a little easier for people to get to the beach.  However, make sure you feel hardy if you want to use the Sprigtail and Canvasback/Wood Duck access points.
   • Intermediate term (starting around Easter).  The Town will scrape down the erosion/escarpment (probably with a bobcat) at the 3 CD community access point and at private access points, assuming they can see where the private access points are and that there are no obstacles or barriers to safely scraping the sand there. It would probably be a good idea for oceanfront property owners to talk with the Town around Easter if you are interested in the Town scraping your existing private access walkway.
   • Long term.  The next nourishment project is currently planned for 2027.
8. Contact the Town (252-255-1234).  Owners are encouraged to call the Town if they have questions or concerns.

Let's hope for moderate weather and wind over the next several months!