Blackwater Estuary Essex Flashcards
What is the primary reason Essex Wildlife Trust sought a more sustainable approach to flood protection?
To account for rising sea levels, which are increasing by 30cm each century
This approach is necessary as traditional flood defenses have proven unsustainable.
What percentage of salt marsh has been lost in the last 25 years in the Blackwater Estuary?
60%
This loss has heightened the vulnerability of the area to flooding and coastal erosion.
What traditional methods were used to protect farmland from flooding in the Blackwater Estuary?
Flood embankments and revetments
These methods have become increasingly ineffective due to coastal squeeze.
What is ‘coastal squeeze’?
A situation where coastal habitats are lost due to rising sea levels and fixed defenses preventing landward migration
It highlights the challenge of maintaining coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change.
What significant action did Essex Wildlife Trust take in 2000 regarding Abbotts Hall Farm?
Purchased Abbotts Hall Farm, which was threatened by erosion and flooding
This purchase was part of a larger strategy to implement managed realignment.
What was implemented in 2002 to facilitate the formation of new salt marshes in the Blackwater Estuary?
A 4000 ha managed realignment scheme with five breaches in the sea wall
This innovative approach allowed for natural processes to create new habitats.
True or False: Building higher coastal defenses is considered a sustainable long-term solution in the Blackwater Estuary.
False
Over the last 30 years, it has become clear that this approach is not sustainable.
Fill in the blank: The sea walls in the Blackwater Estuary were in need of _______.
[repair]
Repairing sea walls alone was not a feasible long-term solution.
What did the Abbotts Hall Farm owners receive for their threatened farm?
The market price
This indicates a compensation mechanism for landowners affected by environmental policies.
What was avoided due to the very high costs of a ‘hold the line’ policy?
Flood risk
This refers to the strategy of preventing coastal erosion and flooding.
How did the expansion of reed beds affect water quality in the estuary?
Improved water quality
Reed beds act as natural filters, enhancing the ecosystem.
What new features were created for leisure activities?
Paths and walkways
These developments promote outdoor recreation and accessibility.
What additional income streams were created as a result of the scheme?
Ecotourism and wildlife watching
These activities contribute to the local economy and promote conservation.
What types of nurseries were enhanced by the scheme?
Bird and fish nurseries
Specifically, species mentioned include dunlin, redshank, geese, bass, and herring.
Who is managing the Essex Estuaries Initiative?
A wide range of authorities including local authorities and fisheries regulators
This initiative is partly funded through Interreg IIC.
