Can long-term beach erosion be solved with soft management measures? Case study of the protected Jandía beaches

Land uses have long modified aeolian sedimentary dynamics as has occurred in the Jandía isthmus (Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain), where changes vegetation cover, reduction of sediment available for transport and building barriers to induced beach erosion. In last 62 years area experienced a 800,000 m2. The aim this paper is analyse current situation (in terms availability, longshore drift distribution protected plant species) order make soft management proposals respond erosive situation. Based on methodology that combines field work, coastline digitalization calculations, it found each year system loses about 96,000 m3 which needs be replaced stop Four possible ways manage are discussed: passive non-intervention allow ecosystem evolve adapt new conditions; remobilization deposits feed beaches; nourishment from other areas or outside system, and; mechanical recirculation sands. viability analyzed, particularly with regard long-term sustainability, well its compliance otherwise protection measures place. Paradoxically, only can alleviate problem term incompatible protective measures. words, Sotavento beaches an example restrictions imposed result status, do not take into account tendences ecosystem, fact constitute obstacle conservation adoption could slow down degradation process and, ultimately, impede disappearance.