The extent of erosion down-coast from a groin depends on a number of factors, including the length of the groin, the amount of sand in the system, and the wave climate. In some cases, erosion can be significant, leading to the loss of beaches and infrastructure. In other cases, erosion may be less severe or may not occur at all.
To mitigate the potential impacts of groins on down-coast beaches, engineers sometimes use a technique called beach nourishment. This involves adding sand to the beach to replace sand that has been lost due to erosion. Beach nourishment can help to protect beaches and infrastructure from erosion, and it can also create new habitat for wildlife.