Long-Terms Dynamic of the Beaches and the Coasts of the Kalamitsky Gulf of the Crimea

Abstract

The aim of the work is to characterize the dynamics of beaches and coasts of the Kalamitsky Gulf according to long-term observations data for the period of the twentieth–early twentyfirst centuries. Methods. To analyze the available information, we used comparative-geographical, comparative-historical and cartographical research methods. During the coastal research we used a complex of field methods: observation in the key sectors, instrumental and semi-instrumental measuring, photo-methods. Results. The changes in beaches width in the borders of Evpatoriya (since the beginning of twenty century) and on the other parts of the gulf (since the mid-80th of twenty-century) were considered. Velocities of the coastal recession have been characterized according to the observations since the 40s of the twenty century. The anthropogenic and natural factors determining the modern coastal dynamics were indicated. Conclusions. During the considered period, the beach width in different parts of the Kalamitsky Gulf decreased by 2-4 times, and in some parts the beaches disappeared completely. During the last 100 years the average rate of coastal erosion was 1.3 m∙year-1, the maximum was 7.8 m∙year-1. These processes are accompanied by depletion of debris stocks on the beach and the submarine slope, erosion of bench deposits, destruction of the coastal constructions. This situation is caused by the shortage of clastic material in the coastal zone caused by intensive economic activity on the coast: quarries, creation of water reservoirs, hydraulic engineering and coastal protection construction, water area pollution and bottom sediments. Natural factors play a subordinate role in beach degradation like sea level rise, coastal sinking, coastal lithology, sediments attrition, aeolian outflow, changes in wind-wave conditions, and activation of extreme storms.