Orrin Pilkey, a beloved professor emeritus of geology at Duke University, passed away on December 13 at the age of 90. He was a champion for science-based coastal management and became a leading voice in geology, particularly in North Carolina.
Born on September 19, 1934, in New York City, Pilkey spent much of his childhood in Richland, Washington. There, along the Columbia River, he found his lifelong passion for nature. He spent summers as a smokejumper for the Forest Service before pursuing higher education. He earned his bachelor’s degree in geology from Washington State College in 1957, followed by a master’s from the University of Montana and a doctorate from Florida State University.
In 1965, Pilkey joined Duke University and began studying deep-sea sediment while working on the research vessel Eastward. His early work focused on marine geology, earning him prestigious awards, such as the Francis P. Shepard Medal in 1987.
In 1969, Hurricane Camille devastated the Gulf Coast, including his parents’ Mississippi home. This experience shifted his focus to coastal management, compelling him to apply his knowledge to help communities facing erosion and flooding.
As shorelines began to recede, many communities turned to solutions like seawalls and beach nourishment. However, Pilkey argued that these methods often harmed the environment and were ineffective long-term solutions. He believed in accepting natural processes like shoreline retreat instead of resisting them.
Throughout his career, Pilkey didn’t just conduct research; he actively communicated his findings to policymakers. He attended numerous town halls and legislative meetings, advocating for science-grounded policies. His efforts led to significant laws in North Carolina, such as the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 and the banning of oceanfront seawalls in 1985.
Pilkey also contributed to the preservation of historical sites, notably the relocation of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in 1999 to protect it from eroding shores. His advocacy earned him several accolades, including the Geological Society of America’s Public Service Award in 2000.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pilkey was known for his engaging personality. He taught from the Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort and was remembered for his hands-on teaching style, often taking students on field trips to learn directly from nature.
He also founded the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines at Duke in 1986, promoting responsible coastal management practices. The lab continues today, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on coastal studies.
Orrin Pilkey leaves behind a legacy of advocacy for science in policy, a loving network of students and colleagues, and lasting contributions to the understanding of coastal environments. His belief that scientists should actively engage with the community continues to inspire many in the field.
