USACE kicks off Folly Beach pilot study

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District will this week begin a pilot study on the northeast end of Folly Beach, placing sand dredged from the federal channel and constructing a berm or sand bar just offshore.

According to the Corps, the project has the potential to help with erosion by having sand gradually migrate onto the beach.

If successful, projects like this could be a potential interim solution for future renourishments efforts.

“The Charleston District is excited to begin this pilot project and is hopeful it will provide a winning solution to erosion in between full renourishment periods,” said Lt. Col. Rachel Honderd. “Protecting the infrastructure behind the dunes on this beach is of vital importance.”

This beneficial-use project will place 60,000 cubic yards of sand near the shore. Placement will last through the end of May.

The scheme will be completed using a vessel owned by the Wilmington District, the shallow draft dredge Murden. The entire project will be completed in-house by USACE personnel.