Shoreline change mapping along the coast of Galicia, Spain

Abstract

This study was concerned with shoreline change and cliff recession. Galicia (north-west Spain) comprises a very energetic and diversified coast. The study focused on the analysis of the coastal dynamics and the spatio-temporal changes of coastal morphology for the years 1956, 2003, 2006 and 2008, using the digital shoreline analysis system (DSAS) extension. Estimation of the rates of erosion and accretion along the pilot site (Fisterra/Finisterre area) was performed. In addition, a continuous coastline along Galicia was integrated into a geographical information system project which comprises an interactive database with key information. A coastal susceptibility map (erosion/accretion) was created based on the DSAS results for the short-term approach and cross-checked with knowledge of the area in terms of geology, geomorphology and landslide occurrences. Aspects related to the engineering solutions, land-use planning or environmental management were considered in the recommended strategy, as well as the impact and disturbance severity analysis for each action used. This research was developed to provide useful information about the Galicia territory and to give reliable data for the coastal management plan supported by the council. Such plan addresses some changes to the coastal policy and encourages future issues.