Effect of land reclamation or loss and high water levels in the Scheldt estuary: historical effects (1550-1800) as a reference for current management.

To reduce the risk of flooding along the Schelde estuary, polders are restored to tidal marshes. However there's no empirical data available that describes the relationship between tidal marsh restoration and water level reduction (~ flooding). Therefore, as comparative model, we will study the effects of historical land loss and reclamation along the Westerschelde (1550-1800) (near sea) on the water level of the Zeeschelde (inland), using protists (Diatoms and Testate amoebae).

Keywords:PROTISTS, GEOMORPHOLOGY, ECOLOGY

Disciplines:Geology, Ecology, Environmental science and management, Other environmental sciences