Field observations, video monitoring and numerical modeling at Poetto Beach, Italy

This work presents an analysis of hydrodynamics and morphological evolution during one year at Poetto Beach (South Sardinia, Gulf of Cagliari - Italy). The results, in the form of a numerical model, Delft3D, were validated using data obtained from a very reproducible low-cost video monitoring system. Subsequently, the model was used to study local hydrodynamics (Delft3D) during wave events. Poetto Beach is a wave-dominated urban beach system characterized by an inner shelf with Posidonia oceanica meadows. Bathymetric and topographic surveys were carried out every three months in order to understand the beach morphology. Sediment grain samples were taken alongshore/cross-shore in correspondence with the main morphologies. The Delft3D model was used to simulate waves and hydrodynamics. The numerical simulation (Delft3D) showed good agreement with the field data and video image analyses for the distribution and direction of the rip and longshore currents. This approach, which can be easily replicated on other urban beaches, could provide beach managers with useful information on how to prevent and minimize the effects of storms and flooding.