Cover

CHAPTER IV: WILDLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,

THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^237

13.2 Man-Made Beaches

„ Value to SGCN - 52

„ Rank - 9th of 17 Marine, Estuarine and

Estuarine Fringe Systems

DESCRIPTION
Artificial sand beaches are often less than 200 feet
wide and are accompanied by a cement seawall that
minimizes erosion along the mainland. Wind and
wave action gradually work the sand back into the
Mississippi Sound. Tons of replenishing sand are periodically pumped from nearshore areas.
Invertebrates associated with natural sand shores recolonize artificial beaches after the treatments have
been completed. Resident and migratory birds contribute greatly to the diversity found along artificial
sand beaches.

A component of the beaches are ephemeral habitats called "bryozoans" or floating colonies. These are
seasonally important and provide structural habitat and nutrient and carbon sources that are used by
invertebrates, fishes and birds.

LOCATION, SIZE, CONDITION AND CONSERVATION STATUS
NGM

Man-made beaches are confined to a few long segments along the
north shore of the Mississippi Sound. All man-made beaches are
adjacent to transportation corridors and urban or residential areas.
Mississippi's highly engineered coastline totals 80 miles in length, of
which 36 miles are artificial beaches with a total area of
approximately 700 acres.

Storm surges and beach clean-up operations reduce the availability of
this habitat for wildlife. Some efforts are being implemented to reduce the amount of sand erosion and
banking on nearby roadways. Other efforts are being implemented to protect the small colonies of
nesting least terns.

Man-made beaches are secure in the state because they are constructed habitats that did not exist prior to
development of the coastal urban centers.

13.2 Man-Made Beaches

Range of Man-Made Beaches