Nantucket initiates beach erosion pilot project at Madaket and Dionys Beach

The Nantucket Conservation Commission convened on February 20, 2025, to discuss a significant coastal erosion control project aimed at stabilizing the bluff face and beach areas at Madaket and Dionys Beach. The meeting focused on a pilot project designed to test various erosion control methods, which will not affect the Aims Ave. property, as clarified by project representatives.

The proposed project encompasses a total of 1,600 square feet across multiple plots of land, featuring four distinct sections. These include cliff stabilizers with native dune plantings, dune guards without plant plugs, and control sections to measure sand accumulation and loss. Each section will measure 27 feet by 60 feet, with individual parcels approximately 15 feet in length.

Key components of the project involve the use of cliff stabilizers made from UV-protected materials to ensure durability against sunlight degradation. These stabilizers will help anchor plant plugs, allowing them to establish roots and withstand wave action. The project anticipates the need for around 3,210 dune guards to support the stabilization efforts.

During the discussion, RJ, a commission member, expressed enthusiasm for exploring alternative erosion control methods, emphasizing the need to avoid damaging neighboring properties and reducing the time spent in meetings addressing erosion issues. He highlighted the importance of proper permitting for the project to ensure its success.

The commission's deliberations underscored the experimental nature of the pilot project, with the aim of gathering data on the effectiveness of different erosion control strategies across various locations on the island. The meeting concluded with a commitment to proceed with careful monitoring and evaluation of the project's outcomes.