Following the September 2026 nor’easter, DNREC continues to monitor coastal conditions and shoreline erosion in Kitts Hummock. Ahead of the larger, federally-supported Bay Beach Nourishment Project, currently expected to begin in the Fall of 2027, DNREC is planning an interim, State-led beach nourishment effort at Kitts Hummock.

This area has experienced some of the most significant erosion and impacts from the recent coastal storm. Addressing these conditions is important to supporting the larger federal project.

For more information, contact the DNREC Shoreline and Waterway Management Section DNREC_Shorelines@delaware.gov.

Schedule

Work on the interim project is planned to begin the week of October 26, 2026, and will involve placing approximately eight- to ten-thousand cubic yards of sand along the beach, extending south from approximately 159 S. Bay Drive to the end of the road.

Sand placement will occur within existing DNREC easements established for beach projects.

The work is expected to take approximately eight to ten weeks, depending on weather and other conditions. The schedule may change based on weather, coastal conditions and operational considerations.

Part of a Larger Project

The interim project is intended to address near-term shoreline conditions while DNREC and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continue advancing the larger federal nourishment project.

Property owners with shoreline areas outside existing DNREC easements who are considering additional coastal protection measures should contact DNREC to discuss applicable permitting requirements.

Depending on the location and proposed activity, options may include authorized sand placement, sandbags or coastal structures.

Related Topics:  beach nourishment, beaches, delaware bay, shorelines, watershed stewardship