Changes in the Oosterschelde ecosystem induced by the Delta works
Smaal, A.C.; Knoester, M.; Nienhuis, P.H.; Meire, P. (1991). Changes in the Oosterschelde ecosystem induced by the Delta works, in: Elliott, M. et al. (Ed.) Estuaries and Coasts: Spatial and Temporal Intercomparisons. ECSA 19 Symposium, University of Caen, France. International Symposium Series, 3: pp. 375-384
A large-scale coastal engineering project aimed at protecting the Delta area (SW Netherlands) from flooding was completed in 1987. The Oosterschelde Estuary has been partially closed by a storm-surge barrier which, in combination with dams on the northern and eastern boundaries, has modified the tidal characteristics of the estuary. Water exchange with the North Sea, tidal current velocities and fieshwater discharges have been reduced. Both light attenuation and nutrient loads have decreased.A preliminary evaluation is presented of the impact of the completed engineering works on the ecosystem. Several habitats are changing. Salt-marsh and tidal-flat erosion has increased, silt is being deposited in subtidal areas and bird numbers have decreased. The yields of mussels cultivated in the western part of the estuary has decreased and mussel conditlonhas deteriorated. Macrozoobenthos biomass and the diversity of fish species do not appear to have been directly affected by the engineering works.
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