Landscape Architects from Groundwork NE & Cumbria have overseen installation of a range of innovative, man-made enhancements to create intertidal habitat within Whitby Harbour as part of the Better Estuaries And Coastal Habitat (B.E.A.C.H) Esk project.
Working in partnership with the Environment Agency and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust the project aims to improve water quality and ecology along the River Esk, with the support of Scarborough Borough Council and Yorkshire Water.
What is Intertidal Habitat?
Intertidal Habitat is the area covered during high tide and exposed during low tide. This can be along the coastline or within an estuary (the tidal mouth of a river).
Why is Intertidal Habitat important?
It is a unique and rich natural habitat supporting a wealth of species. The intertidal zone continues to be squeezed out by hard infrastructure relating to flood defences and commercial or recreational activity, along with rising sea levels.
How can we help?
By introducing textured surfaces, artificial rock pools and shelter for fish we can create a habitat that is more welcoming to nature.
So far we have installed 18 ‘Living Seawalls’ panels, 6 ‘Shelter shell’ suspended fish refuges, 9 artificial rock pools, and 9 domed refuge tiles around the harbour in Whitby. The University of Hull will be monitoring these over the coming years to see what species we can benefit and support.
Whitby Harbour, UK
Balmain, Australia
For more information on some of the products we use and eco-engineering companies we work with, please use the links below:
For more information on related estuary and coastal projects, please use the links below:
