Managed Duxbury Beach balances nature and human needs for sustainable future.
Duxbury Beach in Massachusetts is a changing barrier island managed to balance different uses. It looks natural but is actually engineered to fit various needs while working with natural processes. The beach has evolved over time, with a continuous foredune and backdune now in place. Techniques have been refined to match coastal processes and wildlife habitats. The beach is allowed to move back as sea levels rise, and efforts are made to widen the lagoon area. The barrier serves as a recreational spot, vehicle access, flood protection, and bird nesting ground.