Major restoration works have taken place in the Schelde estuary over the past decade. New restoration techniques such as reduced tidal systems have been tested and implemented as well as a number of other projects from vegetation management to managed retreat. In total more than 4000 ha of natural habitat will be restored. The major project, Kruibeke Bazel Rupelmonde, in total some 700 ha becomes operational at the end 2015.
1) the objectives of restoration;
a. species oriented
b. habitat oriented
c. system oriented
2) the reasons for success or failure of restoration projects
a. sedimentation
b. vegetation development
c. fauna, including microbiota
d. ecological functioning
e. local impact versus impact on functioning of the whole estuary
3) the different types of restoration projects
4) the importance of the ecosystem services concept in restoration
5) the role of environmental legislation as a driver for restoration
The conference will bring together both scientists and practitioners and result in guidelines for further estuarine restoration projects. The projects along the Schelde will be the central element of the conference but the conference aims to discuss estuarine restoration in the wider context and will bring together delegates from all important European estuaries.
Meeting Chair: Professor Patrick Meire