Providing Protection from the Storm: TenCate’s Role in Saving the Coast of Montauk, NY

Montauk, New York is no stranger to devastating storms. A village that sits at the east end of the Long Island peninsula, Montauk is prone to being targeted by violent weather. Over time, massive storms (such asHurricane Sandy in 2012), have caused serious erosion of the dunes and beaches, creating dangerous situations for many buildings along the coastline.

Recently, Montauk was hit yet again by adamaging northeasterthat stripped away a vast amount of sand, further endangering the foundations of nearby buildings. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, some East Hampton town officials, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers had the foresight to set in motion a stabilization project in 2015 that has provided the needed protection from this latest storm event.

This project used Geobag® units (geotextile sand containers created by TenCate Geosynthetics) to help reinforce the coast. These units, which resemble large bags or pillows, are made of a special, innovative fabric that is resistant to high UV and abrasion, creating protection for the surrounding environment. The Geotube® containers are first packed with sand and other similar materials; then, as the materials settle, the container becomes a structural mass.

Over 11,000 of these Geobag® units were placed along Montauk. In the event a storm surge should strip away the sand covering these units, the Geobag® containers were made in a tan color to blend in with the natural surroundings.  

After arranging these thousands of units, they were covered in sand and vegetated to appear as natural dunes. Through the use of TenCate Geobag® Marine Technology and the help of many dedicated team members, including Chris Timpson, one of our Engineering Business Managers, the coast of Montauk has been braced and fortified, causing this project to be deemed a success by the USACE.

TenCate Geosynthetics  strives to develop innovative materials that make a positive impact in the surrounding environment. To learn more about our other projects and solutions, visit our website or  contact us today.