Climate Change Intensifies Challenges for Coastal Beach Stabilization

In Buxton, North Carolina, a small village on the Outer Banks, the community is facing severe challenges in beach stabilization due to rapid erosion and climate change. Since September, 15 houses have collapsed on the beachfront, prompting Dare County Board of Commissioners Chairman Bob Woodard to seek state and federal assistance for coastal solutions.

The county has already spent approximately $275 million on beach nourishment and maintenance, with limited state or federal support. Climate change is exacerbating coastal conditions, leading to increased sea levels, intensified storms, and heavy rainfall, causing significant erosion and infrastructural damage.

Residents have reported changing environmental conditions, such as flooding and erosion occurring in previously stable areas. Efforts are underway to repair groins, with the county planning a beach nourishment project for 2026, and has requested the state to lift a ban on hardened structures to allow for the replacement of deteriorated groins.

A legislative proposal introduced by Rep. Greg Murphy aims to authorize FEMA flood insurance payments for the proactive removal of threatened oceanfront houses, although FEMA currently faces staffing and funding challenges.

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has directed a panel to analyze shoreline stabilization options, highlighting the ongoing struggle between preserving the coastline and letting natural processes take their course.

Historical efforts to stabilize the coastline have included various methods since the late 1800s, with little long-term success. The county is evaluating the effectiveness of existing groins while considering the economic implications of beach stabilization strategies.

Dare County Manager Bobby Outten emphasized the dilemma facing coastal communities: either maintain the coastline artificially or allow nature to take its course, neither of which are deemed acceptable solutions by the community.