Maine Shore Steward Volunteers - Beach Profiling Role Description
Title
Beach Profiling
Location
Beaches Involved in the Profiling Project:
Higgins, Scarborough, Western/Ferry, East Grand, Kinney Shores, Ferry Beach, Biddeford Pool/Fortune’s Rocks, Goochs, Laudholm Farm, Drakes Island, Wells, Ogunquit, Long Sands
Objective
Trained volunteers are currently making topographic profiles of 10 important barrier systems in southern Maine. A two-year study of beaches in southern Maine is underway to evaluate the “State-of-Maine’s Beaches.”
Qualifications
Program content is appropriate for high school age and up.
Responsibilities
Trained volunteers are currently making topographic profiles of 10 important barrier systems in southern Maine. Each beach contains two-four profile transects and the volunteers use the Emery Method of beach profiling. They start from a surveyed monument and simultaneously collect the data on a monthly basis. In addition, moored wave/current meters offshore are collecting data.
Time Commitment
Volunteers collect samples and submit their results once a week.
Training/Support
Changes in beach profiles are being monitored monthly by ten teams of volunteers. These volunteers have contact and support from the Maine Sea Grant and University of Maine marine geologists. A training is provided on the elevation measurement technique. The elevation of beaches is measured using the Emery method of beach profiling.
Benefits
Professional training, environmental impact, connection to and support from UMaine marine geologists.
Supervisor
Esperanza Stancioff, Water Quality Biologist
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Knox and Lincoln Counties Office
377 Manktown Road
Waldoboro, Maine 04572-0309
1-800-244-2104 (in Maine) or (207) 832-0343
esp@umext.maine.edu