Monday, December 13, 2021

The Relentless Sea II


This is a photograph of the remains of a steel bulkhead that has deteriorated until it is now just a shadow of its former self.  I have no idea how long ago it was installed, but we would be surprised at its relatively short life.  After the steel sheets are driven into the sand, they are usually covered with tar to reduce the exposure to salt water.  Bulkheads are so important because they protect the cliff from the erosion by the pounding of waves, especially in storms.


As they rust away, the leave beautiful rich colors, and and interesting shapes.  Note the black tar on the bottom of the steel sheet.

 

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

So sad to see this kind of erosion that is so far gone! Never realized that steel bulkheads were covered with tar. The copper and bronze colors are amazing in your second photo. betsey