On SPM Dynamics in the Turbidity Maximum Zone of the Weser Estuary

摘要

The estuarine turbidity maximum zone (ETM) of high suspended sediment concentration is highly variable on different time scales. As the ETM is closely linked to river siltation problems, an improved understanding can help to optimise sediment management within the estuary. Variability on intratidal, spring-neap and river discharge-related (seasonal) time scales is reviewed based on data from older measurements and recent monitoring and compared with modelling results. Previous results describing intratidal dynamics as a cyclic process of advection, deposition and resuspension are corroborated. Strong coupling is evident between the ETM and the mixing zone, not only on the intratidal movement but also as a shift of both in reaction to changes in river discharge. Spring-neap variations are mainly evident as changes in suspended sediment concentration and small changes in the ETM extension.