In the dynamic realities of coastal land management, the delicate balance between preserving natural beauty and fortifying the landscape against environmental threats is a constant challenge. In this article we will look at a case study in coastal renourishment: How Mount Construction leverages cutting-edge drone technology to document and enhance beach renourishment initiatives in Avalon, NJ. We will explore the powerful use of drone technology combined with environmental stewardship, and community resilience. All of which will showcase the pivotal role drones play in shaping coastal management.
Table of Contents
Drone Photo of Avalon, NJ Shoreline
Exploring the History of Avalon, New Jersey
Avalon, NJ, situated along the southern Atlantic coast, has a rich history as a traditional seaside resort community. Its history dates to Native American settlements and later grew into a haven for vacationers seeking respite from urban life. Fueled by the accessibility provided by rail travel, Avalon witnessed a surge in development, marked by the construction of Victorian-era hotels and charming beach cottages. Today, Avalon stands as a premier destination renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant community atmosphere, and timeless coastal allure. Geographically, Avalon’s narrow barrier island formation, Seven Mile Island, is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and calm backwater bays to the west. Boasting a “seven-mile” coastline, the shore is covered with white sands and native flower-filled dunes. However, this geographic profile renders Avalon vulnerable to erosive forces like wind, waves, and severe weather, necessitating vigilant conservation efforts to protect its natural beauty.
What's included in YOUR GUIDE...
A Proven Roadmap of Success for Implementing Drones in Construction.
A List of Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring Drone Service Providers.
How to Persuade Your Leadership Team to Leverage Drones on Every Jobsite.
Recognizing the increasing threat posed by erosion, Avalon Borough began an ambitious beach renourishment project aimed at replenishing eroded shorelines with sand dredged from offshore deposits. This project was more than mere aesthetic concerns but served as a crucial strategy for future coastal protection. By fortifying its shores, Avalon not only safeguards its infrastructure, economy, and environment but also sustains its status as a sought-after tourist destination, ensuring continued prosperity for future generations. This very costly yet essential initiative underscores Avalon’s commitment to preserving its coastal heritage and underscores the importance of proactive conservation efforts in the face of rapidly changing environmental challenges.
Mount Construction Crew Relocating Sand on Avalon, NJ Beach
Background of Mount Construction Company
Mount Construction Company traces its humble beginnings back to the visionary efforts of Dave Smith. What started as a one-man operation grew into a thriving enterprise, fueled by a steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation. Mount Construction gained expertise in coastal engineering and construction as its growth continued. With a workforce of nearly 100 dedicated team members, the company diversified its portfolio to encompass utilities, concrete, paving, and emergency services for water departments, sewer divisions across multiple municipalities, and coastal replenishment in southern New Jersey. Through acquisitions and partnerships, Mount expanded its reach into heavy civil construction and maintenance, securing large government contracts and spearheading critical infrastructure projects. By leveraging its extensive resources and technologies, the company played a pivotal role in replenishing the eroded shorelines of Avalon.
Related Article – How Drones Monitor and Help Solve Coastal Beach Erosion
The Beach Renourishment Project in Avalon
The Avalon, NJ beach restoration project spanned several years with the latest taking place in 2022-2023. The project encompassed several parts over an extended period to address beach erosion, restore existing eroded shorelines, and strengthen coastal defenses against storms and hurricanes. One significant aspect of the project involved Mount Construction’s task of transporting and spreading approximately 64,000 cubic yards of sand along the affected shoreline. This collaborative effort with Avalon’s Department of Public Works aimed to fortify the coastline, enhance recreational opportunities, and create a protective barrier ahead of hurricane season for residents and tourists. Additionally, a broader beach fill project, conducted in partnership with governmental entities and construction companies, utilized a dredge named “Texas” from the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company to replenish storm-damaged beaches. Despite encountering many challenges, this project steadily progressed, and Avalon provided detailed updates to the community throughout the entire process of the project.
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Critical to the project’s success was the integration of cutting-edge drone technology, facilitating real-time monitoring of progress. Despite facing adverse weather conditions and mechanical issues, dedicated teams persevered, implementing proactive measures to ensure a timely completion. The utilization by Mount Construction of specialized machinery and equipment enabled the precise hauling, spreading, and distribution of sand, reinforcing the shoreline’s resilience against erosion. The data collected had many real world use cases, but one such use was for the city of Avalon to maintain a transparent communication channel with stakeholders and the public.
Leveraging Drones for Documentation and Surveys
The successful completion of the Avalon beach restoration project stands as a testament to the town’s dedication to preserving its coastal heritage and safeguarding its future against the relentless forces of nature. One of the pivotal elements in this project was the innovative use of drone technology for documentation and surveys. By harnessing the power of drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, project managers were able to conduct aerial assessments in real-time, monitoring progress, identifying areas needing attention, and assessing the effectiveness of sand deposition with unprecedented precision. This advanced approach not only facilitated transparent communication but also streamlined decision-making processes, ensuring that resources were allocated efficiently and effectively throughout the project’s duration.
When looking to hire a drone service company it is always important to check if they are licensed by the FAA and they have experience with the specific project at hand. The Drone Life pilots are highly trained, licensed, OSHA-certified, and experienced in many different types of commercial projects. By hiring an experienced drone service provider, you can ensure your plans are carried out by professionals who understand the nuances and complexities of your project. Schedule a free consultation today with The Drone Life for more information.
What's included in YOUR GUIDE...
A Proven Roadmap of Success for Implementing Drones in Construction.
A List of Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring Drone Service Providers.
How to Persuade Your Leadership Team to Leverage Drones on Every Jobsite.
