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Before & After: Natural Beach Nourishment in Progress

12/9/2025 - You may notice some encouraging changes along our shoreline. The images below show the early stages of a sand shoal moving onshore and naturally adding sand to the section of the Isle of Palms beach near Beachwood East and Dunecrest Ln. When you compare the “X” marked on each image, you can clearly see the shoreline beginning to build outward.

While this is a positive development, it’s important to note that this type of shoal only provides temporary relief. The long-term erosion in this area will continue, and a major beach renourishment project will still be necessary to restore and protect the beach in a lasting way.

This temporary boost is exactly why the City partnered with the Wild Dunes Community Association (WDCA) for the shoal management project.

We’ll continue to monitor the shoreline and share updates as conditions change.

"before" aerial view of shoal attachment

 

"after" aerial view of shoal attachment