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Re-creating saltmarsh habitat - Erosional (State 1) to Dynamic
stability (State 2)
The methods considered in this section are concerned largely with re-creating
State
3 saltmarsh by encouraging accretion of sediments and plant establishment
on open tidal flats. A number of methods are employed to promote succession,
which include physical structures to contain and encourage sediment deposition
and help protect the eroding edge of the saltmarsh, as well as planting vegetation.
Methods of restoration
For a general discussion of the issues surrounding saltmarsh re-creation see
(Boorman & Hazelden 1995; Johnson
1996). Further information can be obtained by reference to the situation
in Essex where numerous attempts have been made to restore
saltmarsh on tidal flats (in the 1980s) and by managed
realignment (in the 1990s). Coupled with the relatively large number
of examples of historical
failure this geographical area is extremely important for understanding
options for saltmarsh restoration and re-creation.
Guidance: A key issue affecting the ability of saltmarsh to become established
is the height of the surface to be colonised in relation to the local tidal
regime. A recent report (Hough et al. 1999)
has helped to define the extent and vertical range of saltmarsh vegetation,
as an aid to establishing the likely success of managed realignment schemes
in re-creating saltmarsh. Reference should be made to this report and to the
examples of realignment
already being monitored.
Caution: Before embarking on a programme which includes the re-establishment
of saltmarsh on tidal flats consideration should be given to the potential effect
of the loss
of tidal flats might have on wintering wildfowl and waders.
References
Boorman, L.A. & Hazelden, J.
1995.
Saltmarsh creation and management for coastal defence.
In: Directions in European Coastal management, ed.Healy, M.G. & Doody, J.P.Samara Publishing Ltd. Cardigan, 175-183.
Abstract...
Hough, A., Spencer, C., Lowther, S. & Muddiman, S.
1999.
Definition of the Extent and Vertical Range of Saltmarsh.
Environment Agency R&D Technical Report, TR W153
Environment Agency.
Abstract...
Johnson, D.E.
1996.
Integrating science, technology and environmental management to achieve re-creation of tidal wetlands: a regional approach.
In: Partnership in Coastal Zone Management, ed.Taussik, J. & Mitchell, J.Samara Publishing Ltd. Cardigan, 603-609.
Abstract...
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