OF96-3 Executive Summary	contact: Bob Conkwright (bconkwright@mgs.md.gov)

Offshore Sand Resources in Central Maryland Shoal Fields

by
Robert D. Conkwright and Christopher P. Williams
(1996)

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 Assateague Island, MD was sampled for potential sand resources. This field, designated Shoal Field II, is located approximately 6 kilometers off Assateague Island. The eastern edge of the shoal field extends to 20 kilometers offshore. Vibracore samples were used to estimate the quality and quantity of sediments contained in five shoals. The following figures represent the minimum amount of sand contained in the shoals, suitable for beach nourishment projects: Shoal B - 30.l million cubic meters Shoal C - 2.5 million cubic meters Shoal D - 12.3 million cubic meters Great Gull Bank - 11.5 million cubic meters Little Gull Bank - 19.3 million cubic meters These sand resources are similar in character to native beach sands found on Assateague and Ocean City beaches.

(Updated 8/2/00)