A terminal groin is an erosion control structure that can help retain sand on the ocean beach before it reaches the inlet. These structures — typically constructed with stones — are designed to be relatively unobtrusive. The structures run perpendicular to the shoreline, are limited in length and are built as low as possible to the waterline.

Terminal groins are unique because they are engineered to only retain enough sand to manage the shoreline adjacent to a tidal inlet. Sand is able to move over or around the structure, so there is no permanent impact on the flow of sediment and sand should not need to be manually bypassed around the structure once the fillet is full.

A jetty is a large navigation structure, usually found in pairs, designed to control channel shoaling, position and alignment. Jetties usually extend far out into the ocean creating a safe harbor entrance.

A seawall is a form of hard coastal defense constructed along the face of a shoreline. It is designed to deflect wave energy back out to sea, break waves to reduce force, or prevent waves from overtopping the structure in storm situations. Seawalls are typically constructed with concrete or rock and are installed parallel to the shoreline.

Terminal groins have a successful track record protecting beaches and preserving historic sites in North Carolina. Examples include Fort Macon (Beaufort Inlet) in Carteret County and the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (Oregon Inlet) in Dare County. Because of their location and design, these groins have not caused erosion problems for adjacent property owners.

The Coastal Resources Commission would be allowed to permit a terminal groin by use of the already existing variance process or by creating new rules, following an Environmental Impact Study of any potential site. The terminal groin would be closely monitored to determine impacts.

Some organizations are concerned that these structures will alter the natural beauty of North Carolina’s coast. It is important to recognize that this legislation is extremely limited in scope. It is focused on very specific types of structures — and only along our tidal inlets. Other regulations prohibiting hardened structures along the open coast will remain in place, along with our state’s coastal beauty.