FLANAGAN, ROBERT LAWRENCE.

This study evaluates the influence that several geographic factors have
upon the public acquisition of beachfront lands. It demonstrates that
they have a continuing and very important impact upon efforts to establish
public beaches. Factors were analyzed to reveal differing aspects of
their influence upon such acquisition, and particularly how they differ in
various locations. The analyses illustrate spatial interrelationships that
exist among geographic factors relating to the beach lands: physiography,
patterns of settlement, political fragmentation, ownership, access, coastal
economics, groups and individuals, and governmental roles. The influence
of geographic principles are also illustrated by the study. It is demonstrated
that awareness of the geographic influences involved in a public
beach acquisition program could permit a more knowledgeable analysis of a
beach area; thereby contributing to the possibilities for a better program
and increased success in acquiring public beaches.