C5: Fine-grained sediments in estuaries

(K. Schrottke, T. Mörz, Bremen; A. Bartholomä, Wilhelmshaven; G.J. Weltje, Delft; N. McCave, Cambridge)

Estuaries are used worldwide as waterways and they host major harbors. Intensive turnover of highly dynamic fine-grained sediments often causes difficulties in securing navigation. This leads to engineering activities that alter estuarine hydrodynamics and sediment transport. The often contaminated dredged sediments raise questions of ecological and economical disposal or reuse. Climate change and growth in global trade intensify the stress on estuaries. These facts demand a better understanding of the parameters and processes controlling mobility and deposition of estuarine fine-grained sediments. Providing an interdisciplinary platform, all members of the »fine-grained sediment and estuarine community« (scientists, engineers, delegates of waste management, shipping and harbor authorities) are invited to present basic or applied field, laboratory and model studies, new technology or management strategies.