Evolution of Coastal Ponds in a Semi-Arid Setting, South Texas

Simms, Alexander¹, Niranjan Aryal² (1) Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK (2) Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK

Small lakes and ponds along the margins of estuaries and lagoons contain valuable records of paleo-sea level, past storm frequencies, and climatic change. Critical to their use in such studies is an understanding of their evolution. Using aerial photos, surveyed elevation profiles, and vibracores, we describe the geomorphic/stratigraphic evolution of such ponds on the margins of Baffin Bay in southern Texas. Ponds in various stages of evolution are present along the south shore of Baffin Bay giving an excellent model of their formation. From these ponds we see a three-stage evolution of 1.) dune blowout, 2.) connection with the open bay via a small tidal inlet, and 3.) closure of the inlet by spit migration. Data from these ponds holds important clues to Holocene sea levels along the south Texas coast.