Publication Abstract

Minimising impacts of maintenance dredged material disposal in the coastal environment : a habitat approach

S.G. Bolam and H.L. Rees

This paper reviews studies investigating the invertebrate recovery rates and processes following the disposal of fine-grained dredged material in the coastal environment. This review focuses on the comparison of recovery between unstressed, deep-sea coastal habitats with that of stressed shallow-water or estuarine habitats and addresses the debate that stressed systems are more resilient following drastic disturbances. The paper discusses the findings in terms of dredged material disposal management and how consideration of the benthic assemblages may minimise impacts of dredged material disposal on fisheries resources.

Reference:

S.G. Bolam and H.L. Rees, 2003. Minimising impacts of maintenance dredged material disposal in the coastal environment : a habitat approach. Environmental Management, 32(2): 171-188pp