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The Mississippi coast is generally classified as an alluvial coast or a terraced deltaic plain. The slope of the coastal plain is fairly steep, reaching 8 feet per mile in some areas near the shoreline. A series of low, parallel, elevated shoreline scarps is evident. Relatively small drainage areas and the steep alluvial coast result in marsh areas that are comparatively narrow in relation to the coast. The Pascagoula River and Escatawpa River systems drain the land in Jackson County. Old Fort Bayou, Davis Bayou, Bayou Casotte, and several other small streams along the coast, also drain the area. The topography of Davis Bayou is relatively flat, with the highest elevation being 20 feet above mean sea level along the northern section of the unit, sloping toward Davis Bayou. Considerable marsh land is contained within this area. Relatively heavy vegetation and gentle slopes retard the rate of erosion on Davis Bayou. Only the beech/magnolia community and the tidal marshlands are subject to much erosion. The sandy and clay-like soils of the steep ridges, which support the beech/magnolia community, are subject to erosion because the high clay content of the soil permits excessive runoff. The tidal marshes and the Davis Bayou shoreline are subject to erosion because of boat wakes hitting the shoreline. |
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Last Updated:
1/6/03
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