NTDE

– National Tidal Datum Epoch (NTDE) is a 19-year averaging period to which all tidal datums are referenced. The current NTDE spans from 1983-2001 and is actively considered for revision every 20-25 years.

Neap Tide

– The neap tide is the tide when there is the smallest difference between high and low tide in a day. The neap tide typically occurs two times each month during quarter moon phases.

Nearshore Processes

– Nearshore processes, or ‘coastal processes’, are physical processes that occur in the nearshore zone due to wind, waves, currents, tides, and other forces impacting the land and seabed in coastal areas. Nearshore processes include, among many others: wave breaking, refraction, diffraction, reflection and shoaling; overwashing; and sediment transport. Nearshore processes occur in the nearshore zone, although their impacts may extend beyond this area.

Nearshore Zone

– The nearshore zone is located along the coastline and is typically bounded by the low-tide shoreline on the landward side and the offshore zone on the seaward side (which typically begins at water depths of about 60-65 feet). The nearshore zone is roughly equivalent to the littoral zone, although it typically extends further seaward than the littoral zone.

Numerical Modeling

– Numerical modeling is the application of computer software to perform calculations. Numerical models can range in complexity from simple, one-dimensional steady state calculations to large-scale, multi-dimensional systems.