"We must ensure that Camp Ellis receives the resources it needs to save the shoreline and beachfront homes from further destruction," said Senator Collins. "We must take into account that the problem was caused by the federal government and the Army Corps through the construction of a jetty that has caused devastating erosional impacts to the shoreline. Camp Ellis has waited far too long and seen far too many homes lost for this problem to continue unaddressed."
More than 100 years ago, the Army Corps built a jetty extending out from the Saco River, adjacent to Camp Ellis Beach. An Army Corps study confirmed that this jetty has altered the pattern of currents and sand deposition and is the primary cause of the devastating erosion of Camp Ellis. Erosion at Camp Ellis has caused around 36 houses to wash into the sea in the last 100 years. Houses that are now in danger were once six or more houses back from the oceanfront. The 1998 shoreline had receded 400 feet from where the shoreline stood in 1908.
"In recent years, the problem has taken on an even more dire aspect. The beach and dunes have retreated, and the sea advanced, to such an extent that a distinct possibility now exists that a large storm could entirely breach the peninsula and turn Camp Ellis into an island. Such an event would be devastating to the people of Camp Ellis," added Senator Collins. "It is important that work to restore the beach and preserve it from further destruction be completed soon, since the problem will only get worse as time goes on."
Wave-modeling studies have indicated that the construction of an offshore breakwater, a spur coming off the jetty, or both, are likely needed to protect the shoreline from further erosion and destruction of property.
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