A partial understanding of coastal evolution and ecology can be gained through studies of the dynamics, morphodynamics and morphos tratigraphy of the coastal elements comprising the barrier island sys tem. Dr. Oertel's research in this field has been presented in over one hundred documents. Recent study involves interactions between barrier lagoons and boundary environments around barrier lagoons. Dr. Oertel is the Director of the ODU Barrier Island Program project and he also promotes interdisciplinary research in coastal barrier environments. In the 1970-80s, interactions with biological oceanographers resulted in published works on the ecological relationships of inlet/lagoon dynamics and primary production. In the 1980s and 90s, interactions with radiogeochemists, micropaleontologists, and palynologists have enhanced programs of research into Quaternary seismic stratigraphy, and aspects of paleoecology and paleoclimates.
