Sediments Composition and Morphology of the Fosu Lagoon Barrier Beach, Bakaano, Cape Coast, Ghana

Abstract

This research examined the Fosu Lagoon Barrier Beach sediment composition at Bakaano in the Cape Coast Metropolis. The researchers focused on the physical attributes of the Fosu Lagoon Barrier Beach at Bakaano in Cape Coast and analysed its sediment composition. The paper analysed twelve (12) samples or specimens of soils/sediments at the laboratory to determine the sediment composition of the barrier beach. The physical dimensions of the barrier beach were measured in the field with a tape measure and a Global Positioning System (GPS). The study established that the Fosu Lagoon Barrier Beach is approximately 130m long and 58m wide. It is shallow in height, about 10m above sea level and composed mainly of coarse sand particles. The granulated sand composition has made this barrier beach fragile. Aside from wave action, human-induced factors were prominent in the catchment area, such as sand mining and artificial breaching of the barrier, accounting for the temporal changes in its physical characteristics. The paper recommends that the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly should play a critical role in protecting and maintaining the feature by regulating threatening human activities carried out on it.