1. The extent of the feature is an attribute that will be surveyed to determine whether
coastal
processes are resulting in a net gain or loss.
- Target: the extent of the intertidal
flats to be maintained or increased without
compromising the extent of other coastal habitats. There should be no net loss of
intertidal flats. Advice on measuring from baseline will be sought from EN and EA
through SAC monitoring procedures. Accurate measuring and comparison may be
difficult due to intertidal nature of feature.
2. The proportion of mud to sand is an important attribute which governs the colonisation
by
benthic invertebrates and therefore, the value of feeding grounds to wading birds. Muddy substrates
are more productive as feeding grounds in this respect. For the most part, natural factors have
governed the substrate composition of the flats. However, the beach nourishment programme may
cause a change. Particle size analysis is carried out routinely by EA contractors to monitor the
volume of beach nourishment material involved.
- Limits: the proportion of mud to sand
foreshore, is generally 30:70%, which satisfies
the potential for embryo dune building and the needs of feeding grounds for important
wader assemblages. There should be no significant deviation from this baseline,
subject to natural change.
