Final answer:
Mass movement can cause erosion and land loss in coastal landscapes. Sediment accumulation and changes in biophysical processes can also alter the landscape.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effects of mass movement on the coastal landscape can be significant and varied. One major effect is erosion, where the movement of sediment by waves and currents can wear away the land. This can lead to the collapse of cliffs and the loss of coastal land. For example, the overwash of waves during storm events can cause the formation of sand deposits on the leeside of coastal barriers, altering the landscape.
Another effect of mass movement is the accumulation of sediment across the landscape. This can change the biophysical processes and hydrological regimes, leading to the rise of groundwater levels and the accumulation of salt on the surface. This can negatively impact agricultural productivity and transform native vegetation.
Dredging projects aimed at preventing coastal erosion can have unintended consequences. They can result in greater storm impact on shorelines and damage to beach ecosystems, such as reefs and sea grass beds. Ultimately, this damage can threaten local economies reliant on fisheries and tourism.