Wave action is the most significant geomorphic process in coastal bluff retreat in many areas, but abundant groundwater can also be an important cause of slope instability. Along the high, unconsolidated cliffs in western Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, a perched watertable sloping towards the cliff face has promoted slope failure for decades following toe protection. Corrective measures include preventing rainfall from percolating into the soil to recharge the groundwater, interceptng the groundwater before it reaches the coastal bluffs, and revegetating the slope face once the groundwater problem has been resolved.
