Feasibility long-term numerical study of a mega-nourishment in the Northern Adriatic

The coastal area of Porto Garibaldi - Bellocchio (Ferrara, Italy) is subjected to erosion that affects both tourism and generates coastal risk. Mega-nourishments are nowadays one of the most promising measures to compensate erosion and the Dutch Sand Engine project is confirming their capability. A first-step numerical study of the implementation of a small mega-nourishment in the target area is described here including long-term impact-factor analyses on erosion, deposition and sediment transport. Results suggested that the measure can have long-term positive impacts on morphology and transport. Further studies are suggested to overcome the limitations and simplifications introduced in the current study.