Crux of the matter
Lessons can be learned from the way the Heusden LO wetland is restored. The new inland dike is not fortified with stone rubble, and the topography of the restored site was not altered. The old dike was not lowered to MLW level as planned but rather to MHW. However, the results showed that the restoration of the Heusden LO wetland was a success to create a tidal wetland in the freshwater zone of the Sea Scheldt (Zeeschelde).
A detailed evaluation of the monitoring methods is available. For future projects it is recommended to start with the monitoring plan already in the planning phase with clear cost estimation and clear agreements on execution and reporting; make a clear distinction between “site success monitoring” and “impact verification monitoring”; make a photographic survey on a yearly basis to improve interpretation of collected data; optimise the comparability of monitoring results of zoobenthos with that of other countries; monitoring of birds and fishes needs to be done from the beginning following fixed protocol; experimental research is needed to monitor benthic primary production; and investigate the monitoring of floristic quality of marsh vegetation.
An important knowledge gap exists on the identification of factors that can explain all changes in vegetation development. The inundation frequency cannot be the only factor. Also changes in elevation should be investigated better and the impact of local estuarine characteristics such as sediment balance.
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Important to know
Reports / Measures / Tools