South Beach post-Sandy

My senses are a bit overwhelmed at the enormity of change that has occurred on the beaches of Fishers Island during the aftermath of this hurricane. Mostly because I have been out and about exploring and monitoring them weekly (sometimes daily) over the last year and a half. Like someone ferociously shook the “Etch o Sketch” picture…. 

South Beach @ 1:30pm -2:45pm: I am noting that in the past it normally took a half hour or so to walk and monitor this beach site. This afternoon I have spent over an hour just surveying the enormous mass of the debris field.  I note tons of trash, lumber, and seaweed. There is an endless mass of tiny plastic particles and Styrofoam. Plastic everything from cigar holders to tampon applicators, bottles to kid’s toys and lawn furniture, crib toys, shoes, highway signage, commercial fishing gear, tires from tractors and cars, an ice machine! Hundreds of golf balls, even interestingly enough- cactus plant remains along the tidal line. I spot familiar coyote tracks along with the 4 neighborhood crows. There is hardly a breeze today. Quiet.