Morphological Changes in Chezzetcook Inlet: An Historical Study Using Air Photography Composites

Abstract

This thesis provides an analysis of the sedimentological and morphological changes observed in Chezzetcook Inlet from 1766 to 1998 using air photograph composites and maps from 1766 and 1854.This study explores the environmental factors responsible for change, while providing semi-quantitative data on the scale of morphology and sedimentation change occurring in Chezzetcook Inlet. Chezzetcook Inlet is an estuary located in Eastern Shore, Nova Scotia, Canada at 44°34'N longitude and 63°50'W latitude and is approximately seven kilometers in length and four kilometers in width. Two major sedimentological and morphological changes appear to have taken place in Chezzetcook Inlet over the past 232 years: a dramatic episode between 1766 and 1854, and a well documented period between 1945 and 1997. Changes between 1766 and 1854 are associated with the growth of sand and gravel spits near the inlet entrance. Changes between 1945 and 1997 are associated with the extensions of spits and marsh colonization. The drastic growth of Red Island, lagoon closure and sediment infilling at Cape Entry, beach migration and lagoon formation at Story Head, and the extension of spits and marsh colonization at the Three Islands highlight the changes in this period. Construction in the area, storm activity and rising sea level probably account for the increased sedimentation and/or erosion that is causing morphological changes in Chezzetcook Inlet.

Key Words: morphology, sedimentation, Chezzetcook Inlet, air photograph composites