Conclusions

• Mudflats (and saltmarshes) can be created. Physical stability is achievable. Equivalence with natural areas cannot be guaranteed;
• Geomorphological features, vegetation and some ecological functions may take a long time to develop;
• Birds are mobile and will utilise newly created habitats, if conditions are suitable;
• Invertebrate populations often take five years to fully establish, and can take significantly longer (on saltmarshes);
• Bird assemblages on restored and created areas are often difference to natural areas;
• We either need a greater ability to predict the success of mitigation schemes or new habitat must be created and judged to be an acceptable substitute before development takes place (Atkinson et al. 2001).

Caveats

• Avoid dumping near Zostera beds as increased nutrient status and turbidity can cause deterioration in the species;
• Mussel and oyster beds are particularly sensitive to burial and can be affected by as little as 1-2cm of material, so avoid these areas when choosing sites;
• Increase the time period between dumping to allow recovery of animal species;
• Spread the load by using different sites from year to year;
• Consider the timing and location in relation to existing interests (Essink 1999).