Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program (SCOUP)

Regional management of California’s available sand resources and accompanying solutions to coastal erosion are the major intent of the SMP. Addressing technical and regulatory concerns associated with sediment management in a systematic and consistent manner across coastal California is critical if such management and solutions are to succeed. The Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program (SCOUP) was crafted to streamline regulatory approval of small (less than 150,000 cubic yards) beach nourishment projects using opportunistic materials. A pilot project serves as guidance for similar programs elsewhere in coastal California and development of environmental documentation for review purposes. The user (local or regional agency) is guided through receiver site evaluation, source material identification, testing protocols, implementation, and monitoring.

Statewide objectives addressed by SCOUP include:

  • Improved protection to coastal structures, enhanced beach recreation opportunities, and improved environmental habitats throughout the State;
  • A process acceptable to regulatory agencies for use of opportunistic materials to nourish pre-established receiver sites when those materials become available;
  • How to establish a regional opportunistic use program and select appropriate receiver sites;
  • A clear vision of the type of testing and monitoring needed before, during and after construction of opportunistic programs; and
  • Standardized methodologies for establishing compatibility between sources and receiver sites and the use of optimum and less-than-optimum source sands;

SCOUP meets these objectives by identifying relevant and appropriate:

  • Jurisdictional regulatory agencies, required permits and informational needs;
  • Considerations needed to establish and rank potential receiver sites within the littoral cell or other regional area;
  • Anthropogenic activities that could produce viable potential sources of sediment if located within an economic distance of the receiver site;
  • Testing protocols, criteria and checklists required to assess potential physical, chemical and biological impacts associated with use of opportunistic materials;
  • Methods to establish compatibility between potential sediment sources and the approved receiver site(s), including optimum and less-than-optimum materials;
  • Project design considerations and transportation methods/impacts.
  • Biological and physical monitoring needed before, during and after project construction, as well as reporting requirements;
  • Steps required to successfully implement a regional opportunistic program, including additional informational needs and project design considerations when using less-than-optimum source sands; and
  • Ways to increase public education and awareness.