Specifications of the original navigation project called for construction of two jetties
to the 9-ft mlw contour depth. The distance between the jetties is 400 ft (Figure 2-8 and
Figure 2-9). The jetties, at their original length, did not effectively protect the navigation
channel. The west jetty therefore received a seaward extension in 1938, and it is now
1,320 ft long. An undated compilation of maintenance history at Mattituck Inlet from the
New York District indicates that the east jetty was to receive a shoreward extension of
100 ft in 1946. Analysis of aerial photographs prior to and after this extension indicates
that this extension was approximately 280 ft, an adjustment probably made during
construction to close the breach. The east jetty is now 1,020 ft long. The east jetty was
last repaired in 1975. In 1996, the west jetty was tightened, and the seaward 100-ft
section was elevated 1 ft to reduce sediment intrusion to the inlet (New York District
2003). A condition survey was completed in May 2003, and dredging took place over
17-24 March 2004, removing 13,785 cu yd of sediment. Sediment dredged in 1946, and
thereafter, with the possible exception of the dredging of 1965, was placed on the beach
directly east of Mattituck Inlet. The area of placement for other dredging operations at
Mattituck Inlet is not known.
Figure 2-8. Mattituck Inlet and jetties, view looking south, 28 March 2003
Figure 2-9. Mattituck Inlet and jetties, view looking north, 28 March 2003
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Chapter 2 Study Area and Physical Setting
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