| one publication added to basket [12680] | Ecological engineering and coastal defence
Van Bohemen, H.D.; Meesters, H.J.N. (1992). Ecological engineering and coastal defence, in: Carter, R.W.G. et al. Coastal dunes: geomorphology, ecology and management for conservation: Proceedings of the 3rd European Dune Congress Galway, Ireland, 17-21 June 1992. pp. 369-378
In: Carter, R.W.G.; Curtis, T.G.F.; Sheehy-Skeffington, M.J. (Ed.) (1992). Coastal dunes: Geomorphology, ecology and management for conservation: Proceedings of the 3rd European Dune Congress Galway, Ireland, 17-21 June 1992. A.A. Balkema [etc.]: Rotterdam. ISBN 90-5410-058-3. 533 pp., more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Van Bohemen, H.D.
- Meesters, H.J.N.
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| Abstract |
The dune coast of the Netherlands, with its wide variety of dune types and dune ecosystems, as well as the typical flora and fauna these support, is of considerable value both to the Netherlands and to Europe as a whole. For a variety of reasons, however, this value is being eroded. One of these is the stagnation of the natural geomorphological processes which has occurred as a result of a management policy based on preservation of the status quo rather than on the natural dynamic character of the dune environment. This paper will examine ways in which these natural processes can be taken into account as far as possible without endangering the barrier-function against flooding. The reinforced foredunes south of The Hague provide a case study. The way in which the reinforcement has been carried out and under what conditions is described. The results of surveys carried out on the vegetation just before and after reinforcement are mentioned. There is a distinct parallel with another dune reinforcement project, at Voornes Duin, where the vegetation development is also being monitored after reinforcement. The results of experiments with sand drifts in the foredunes are reported briefly. Estimations are being made of developments in the near future, concerning both geomorphological processes and the vegetation. Finally, the development of a more dynamic coastal management policy will be discussed, including the possibility of allowing more sea inlets along the coast. Studying these ideas strengthens the relationship between land developers and environmental and civil engineers. This encourages them to work together with both local management and government to allow nature to take its course as far as possible, without threatening the safety of the country. |
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