Stock, M.. Patterns in surface elevation change across a temperate salt marsh platform in relation to sea level rise. In: Karius V., Hadler H., Deicke M., von Eynatten H., Brückner H. & Vött A.. Dynamische Küsten - Grundlagen, Zusammenhänge und Auswirkungen im Spiegel angewandter Küstenforschung. Coastline Reports (17), pp. 33-48. EUCC-D - Die Küsten Union Deutschland e.V., Rostock, 2011.
Salt marshes develop through sedimentation. In a long-term perspective their further existence is dependant on continuous sediment supply which itself is depending on various factors acting on different scales. In this article we analysed temporal and spatial patterns in surface elevation change (SEC) across a salt marsh platform which is representative for foreland salt marshes along the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein. The analysed data were collected over a time-span of 15 years. During the same period the local mean high water level (MHW) increased at a rate of 4.2 mm yr-1. Mean annual SEC varies spatially between 0.88 and 9.13 mm yr-1. Highest SEC-values occurred on the north-west exposed edges of the marsh. This is the main wind direction in the area. SEC values decreased with increasing distance to marsh edge. In general, SEC values were highest in plots with low and high elevation and in areas with no or low-density grazing. The result of the factors in force is a bowl-shaped surface of the marsh platform.Mean annual SEC accounted for 6.18 mm yr-1. This value is above the measured MHW increase for the area. Due to the large variability of SEC in the area the central and the south-eastern parts of the marsh as well as the areas close to the dike feature low accretion rates and are at the moment not able in keeping pace with MHW increase. This will lead to a rewetting of the marsh. |
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