As water bodies continue to encroach upon the land, shoreline loss is becoming a major concern for environmentalists, governments, planners, geological and civil engineers, realtors, insurance adjustors and coastal residents. Taking an historical approach, this book is the first to explain the loss geologically. Key geological concepts are introduced in language accessible to the non-specialist and case studies and photographs illustrate the text. The authors discuss both pro and con geological and human impacts upon various parts of United States coastline, offering solutions for preventing future land and property loss and providing elementary engineering advice for salvaging damaged areas.