The ocean is taking more than it gives on Martha's Vineyard. Each storm is cutting deeper into South Beach in Edgartown, and the pace is accelerating.

"The storms are coming a bit harder and faster," said Edgartown conservation agent Kara Shemeth.

The town has been racing to rebuild dunes, replant grass, and hold the line. But even Shemeth admits, one powerful storm can undo years of work in a single day. When asked if the town's efforts are futile, she answered, "Absolutely. Especially right after a big one hits and we have to shut down."

Winter storms

That sense of futility has been tested repeatedly. Edgartown was hit by three back-to-back storms in past winter seasons: once on December 18, 2023, followed by two more on January 10 and 12.

The December storm opened a sinkhole on Atl

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