The Editor, Sir:

Nature's most efficient coastal defence systems are sand dunes anchored by vegetation. In Jamaica, this vegetation usually consists of sea grapes, manchioneal (sea cotton), mangroves and dune grasses and running vines.

In order to protect the Palisadoes roadway, the dunes on the southern side should be re-established with all the sand that was washed into the road and scattered into the nearshore waters. This may be supplemented by riverine sediments.

The dunes should then be anchored with a mixture of the appropriate vegetation. Note the dunes across from the entrance to the Jamaica Maritime Training Institute.

Hard structures such as seawalls and breakwaters are unsightly, costly and impractical for such a long shoreline. They also induce adverse side effects such as wave-reflection leading to more beach erosion.

The Palisadoes is a wondrous strip of land producing an amazing natural harbour. It should be enhanced and made user-friendly to the public as a protected park. Dunes with appropriate boardwalks would provide a fantastic 'esplanade' with a vista of the rolling Caribbean Sea.

Basic artificial reef structures could be placed in the harbour-side waters to greatly improve the recreational fishery. The technology exists locally.

Jamaica, remember, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

I am, etc.,

PIERRE DIAZ

Director

eacamp@gmail.com

Sea Control Coastal Engineers

Via Go-Jamaica