Comment:

Optional. Rocky cliffs are less prone to erosion and inundation than bluffs, beaches or deltas. Consequently, a relative ranking of exposure scheme based on geomorphology similar to the one proposed by Hammar-Klose and Thieler (2001) has been adopted. Supplied in Appendix A is a definition of the terms used in this classification, which applies mostly to the North American continent. The Geomorphology input should be a polyline vector with segments that categorize – in an attribute field called ‘RANK’ – the shoreline geomorphology based on the scheme presented in Example Ranking Table. The model joins the geomorphology ranks to shore points by searching around each point with a radius of half the model resolution and then taking the average of all the ranks found in the search. If the user’s geomorphology data source has more categories than the ones presented in Example Ranking Table, it is left to the user’s discretion to reclassify their data to match the provided ranking system, as explained in the Data Needs section, and in Appendix B. It is recommend that the user include shore parallel hard structures (seawalls, bulkheads, etc.) in this classification and that they apply a low to moderate rank (1-3), depending on their characteristics. For example, a large, concrete seawall should be assigned a rank 1 as they are typically designed to prevent inundation during storm events and are designed to withstand damage or failure during the most powerful storms. It is recommended that low revetments or riprap walls be assigned a rank of 3 as they do not prevent inundation and may fail during extreme events. The ranking presented in the above table is only a suggestion. Users should change the ranking of different shoreline types as they see fit, based on local research and knowledge, and by following directions presented in the Data Needs section.