State 1 - erosional saltmarsh

A saltmarsh is considered to be in an erosional state when the balance of accretion over erosion is negative. In this state the saltmarsh tends to move landward. In areas where the width of the foreshore overall remains reasonably stable, there is an overall loss of saltmarsh together with its value (as part of the intertidal ecosystem) and gain in intertidal mud and/or sand flats (see figure below).

Caption Eroding and slumping saltmarsh in the Stour Estuary, Suffolk

Comment: Eventually as the saltmarsh continues to erode the marsh can disappear altogether in areas where it meets rising ground or static sea defences at the landward margin. This situation contributes to the 'coastal squeeze' and the concern to undertake 'managed realignment'.