History of Flooding and Community Response

The Fox Beach section of Oakwood Beach sits on a coastal wetland and an area referred to as the blue belt, as defined by the Department of Environmental Protection. Berms and seawalls were constructed in the area to protect it, as it serves as a storm water retention area. Berms are raised hills, covered with grass, that divert runoff water into swales, or around your home.

The area had a history of flooding from past hurricanes and storms. The 1992 Nor’Easter brought aggressive wind speeds, high tides and flooding along the East coastline, and caused flooding of 5-7 feet.

Brush fires that spread through the highly flammable Phragmites reeds, damaged homes and destroyed the berms that were built after the Nor’Easter of 1992.

Hurricane Isaac struck in 2010, and Hurricane Irene in 2011, leaving residents with significant flooding and expensive reconstruction. After the storm, residents re-built their homes and truly recognized at this point how vulnerable the community had become. After Sandy, the berms and seawalls were completely destroyed leaving them with no protection whatsoever (the community is approximately right at sea level).

The Fox Beach area now provides natural protection against flood and wave damage from coastal storms, hurricanes, and floods. The area serves as an environmental buffer because it weakens the force of the waves, and absorbs any excess stormwater, like a sponge. We have taken advantage of the natural flood control wetlands provide.