Biology 561 Barrier Island Ecology Fall Semester, 2000
Geography of the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts		Jan Vermeer (1632-1675) The Geographer, 1668-69, oil on canvas, Stadelsches Kunstinstitut, Frankfurt.

Objective

Throughout the semester, we will visit, refer to, or make special note of numerous cities, towns, geographic features, and specific environments along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.  This laboratory is designed to establish a common base of geographic knowledge.  To do this we will divide the coastline into sections and review the major features of each section especially as they relate to barrier islands and barrier beaches.

Methodology

Each group of two individuals will make a report on two region in the Atlantic and/or Gulf coasts.  At a minimum, the following information should be presented:

Determine the total length of the shoreline in the region under study and assess the percentage characterized by barrier islands/beaches.
Using a map from the web or other source, locate the major shoreline features.
Generally, characterize the islands of the region.  Describe the character of the shoreline that does not possess barrier islands.
Describe/show the character of the region adjacent to the coast--both landward and seaward.
Locate the major rivers, sounds, bays, inlets and other coastal features associated with, and likely to influence, the shoreline.
Determine the tidal range and character of the tides.
Assess and characterize the extent of development of the shoreline.
Prepare a list of references/links to the geography and character of the region.
Prepare a brief presentation (10-15 minutes) designed to acquaint others with the region.

Geographic Regions

(click on the region for presentation)

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