Induced Subsidence: Environmental and Legal Implications

by Douglas L. Inman, Univ of California - San Diego, La Jolla, United States,
Patricia M. Masters, Univ of California - San Diego, La Jolla, United States,
Katherine E. Stone, Univ of California - San Diego, La Jolla, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Zone '91

Abstract:

Subsidence of coastal areas can be induced by withdrawal of fluids from shallow, unconsolidated horizons beneath the shore zone. In southern California, Huntington Beach, Torrance/Redondo Beach, Playa del Rey and Wilmington are recognized as areas of induced shore-zone subsidence. The effects include changes in littoral transport and morphology of beaches and lagoons and subsidence of coastal structures. Rates of induced subsidence in southern California range from 3 to 20 cm/yr, or 30 to 200 times the rate of present sea-level rise and 3 to 20 times the estimated rate due to the greenhouse effect. Studies of local, induced subsidence may provide insights on shore-zone changes and engineering problems that may develop as sea-level rise accelerates.

Subject Headings: Land subsidence | Sea level | Littoral drift | Coastal protection structures | Wells (oil and gas) | Shores | Offshore structures | United States | California | Delaware

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