Coastal protection in the final spurt: Are our dikes prepared in time?

Coastal protection in the final spurt: Are our dikes prepared in time?

In Lower Saxony, coastal protection work is nearing completion, while the first autumn storm is expected next weekend. On Norderney, an impressive 250,000 cubic meters of sand was washed up into groyne fields, raising the beach level over a distance of two kilometers. These groynes serve as important breakwaters that protect the revetment from storm surges. The storm surge season, which typically lasts from October to March, is approaching and effective coastal protection is more important than ever. n-tv reports that the Lower Saxony State Office for Water Management, Coastal and Nature Conservation (NLWKN) is responsible for these measures.

However, coastal protection in Lower Saxony is not only seeing positive results. Some projects on the East Frisian mainland have been delayed due to a lack of staff and delays in the procurement process. In the Krummhörn, only the dike was raised to 400 meters instead of the planned 700 meters. However, the remaining 300 meters are to be made up for next year. In contrast, the dike construction work in Harlesiel went according to plan and the drain gates in Neuharlingersiel were replaced to adapt to rising sea levels.

The challenges of climate change

The Lower Saxony coastline, which measures around 750 kilometers, is increasingly exposed to the challenges of climate change. According to a report by the Technical University of Braunschweig The sea level in the German Bight has risen by around 10 centimeters in the last 30 years. Projections suggest that this increase could be up to one meter by the end of the century.

To address these challenges, the CoastAdapt scientific space, a project led by the Technical University, is looking for solutions that promote protective measures in harmony with the use of natural resources. Salt marshes and dunes play an important role as natural breakwaters. In addition, research into historical coastal protection strategies is important in order to be prepared for the future.

Investments and outlook

The Lower Saxony state government is planning further investments in coastal protection, with a total of around 81 million euros, 70 percent of which will be borne by the federal government and 30 percent by the state. As the NLWKN According to reports, over 60 million euros are invested in this area every year, and since 1955 the total expenditure has amounted to around three billion euros. The NLWKN confirms the safety of the dikes against severe storm surges, with the main dike line on the Lower Saxony coast being around 610 kilometers long.

In the coming weeks, dike inspections will take place to check the condition of the approximately 650 kilometer long main dike line. More than 20 dike associations take care of dike maintenance on the mainland. The community of Krummhörn will hold its dike show on October 9th. The challenges are great, but Lower Saxony is prepared - with an eye to the future and a good knack for coastal protection.