Cliffwood Beach Fossil Preserve Excavation and Analysis

The Cliffwood Beach fossil preserve is located on the southern shore of the Raritan Bay and has long been considered an important geological and paleontological site. The site's popularity had led to an erosion of the cliffs in the area, threatening public and private property. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) chose to solve the problem by filling in the eroded area, but not before undertaking a major excavation of the site. This report describes the excavation and the fossils and other materials collected. Topics covered include methodology, stratigraphic analysis, coastal morphology and erosion, responses to erosion and alternatives considered. Tables indicate species of fauna and flora collected.Prepared by the Center for Coastal and Environmental Studies for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Division of Coastal Resources, Bureau of Coastal Planning and Development.Purpose: Report on fossils in Cliffwood Beach