Shoreline Dynamics of Barrier Islands in the Gulf of Mexico: A 30-year Comparative Analysis of Developed vs. Undeveloped Islands

ORCID

Han: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5466-9549

MSU Affiliation

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences; Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Design

Creation Date

2026-06-01

Abstract

Barrier islands protect mainland coasts by absorbing wave and tidal energy, reducing storm impacts, and preserving coastal ecosystems. The barrier islands along the Alabama and Mississippi coast of the Gulf of Mexico, including Dauphin, Petit Bois, and Horn Islands, face frequent hurricanes and climate pressures. Among them, Dauphin Island is developed, while Petit Bois and Horn Islands remain relatively undisturbed, allowing for a comparative study of human development impacts on shoreline dynamics. Using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System, we evaluated 618 transects derived from aerial, satellite, and LiDAR data spanning 1984–2015. Three shoreline-change indicators, Net Shoreline Movement, Shoreline Change Envelope, and Linear Regression Rate, were applied to both bay and coast sides of each island. Statistical comparisons (ANOVA and Tukey HSD) tested differences among islands. Results show Dauphin Island experienced chronic coast-side erosion and substantial bay-side deposition, indicating inland sediment migration. In contrast, Petit Bois showed net erosion on both sides, while Horn Island displayed balanced coast-side dynamics and lower rates of change. ANOVA confirmed significant inter-island differences (p < 0.01). These findings demonstrate that intensive development accelerates shoreline retreat and disrupts sediment balance, whereas undeveloped islands retain greater geomorphic resilience. This study provides new empirical evidence of the long-term geomorphic consequences of human disturbance on Gulf Coast barrier islands and underscores the need for nature-based management strategies such as dune restoration and controlled development. Insights from this study will contribute to future coastal management, habitat restoration, and conservation strategies, offering guidance for policymakers to mitigate the negative effects of development on barrier island ecosystems.

Publication Date

9-23-2025

Publication Title

Ecological Informatics

Publisher

Elsevier

Rights

© 2025 The Authors

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Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoinf.2025.103436