Whats happening near the South Jetty?
• High wave energy Wave action is too intense for sand to build up. As waves bounce and refract around the Grays Harbor ebb-tidal delta, they focus energy. The steep slope of South Beach also allows bigger waves to break closer to shore. • Summer sand loss During the summer, sand is carried south along beaches by littoral drift. The Grays Harbor entrance, delta, and jetties may block this flow of summer sand, reducing the sand supply. • Winter sand loss During the winter, sand is carried north along beaches by littoral drift. The South Jetty may interrupt this flow of winter sand, decreasing the sand supply to Halfmoon Bay. • Small offshore bars Offshore bars help buffer beaches against pounding wave action. Near South Beach however, offshore bars are relatively small.
