Offshore Sand Resources
in Central Maryland Shoal Fields
by
Robert D. Conkwright, Christopher P. Williams and Lizet B. Christiansen
(2000)
Extensive beach restoration projects on the Maryland coast are placing increased pressure on
known offshore sand resources within state waters. Assessment of potential sand resources in
Federal waters will encourage both the development of new resources, and further restoration
projects. Previous studies suggest that most usable sand deposits will occur within linear shoals
on the inner continental shelf. A shoal field in waters off Fenwick Island, MD was sampled for
potential sand resources in 1992 and again in 1997. This field, designated Shoal Field I, is
located approximately 6.4 kilometers off Fenwick Island at the Maryland - Delaware state line.
The eastern edge of the shoal field extends to 14.5 kilometers offshore. Vibracore samples were
used to estimate the quality and quantity of sediments contained in the three shoals of Shoal
Field I. The following figures represent the minimum amount of sand contained in the shoals,
suitable for beach nourishment projects:
- Fenwick Shoal -95.8 million cubic meters
- Weaver Shoal - 57.6 million cubic meters
- Isle of Wight - 72.6 million cubic meters
These sand resources are similar in character to native beach sands found
on Assateague and Ocean City, Maryland, beaches.
(Updated 8/2/00)
