Coastal management - low energy coastline, Studland Bay

Coastal landforms

Introduction

Located on The Isle of Purbeck in Doreset

Jurassic coastline

UNESCO World Heritage site - covering 631 hectares

Low energy coastline, wave action is relatively gentle compared to high energy coastlines

Geology

Mainly soft Tertiary sands and clays

Susceptible to erosion and deposition processes

The lack of hard rock formations means that the coastline can be easily reshaped by natural forces

Wave energy

Bay sheltered by the isle of purbeck and old harry rocks, resulting in lower wave energy

The fetch of the distance over which the wind blows across the water is relatively short = low energy environment

Costal processes

Erosion

Erosion in Studland bay is relatively minimal due to the low energy environment

However, during severe storms, some more vigorous erosion can occur

Deposition

Deposition is a significant process in Studland bay, contributing to the formation of various coastal landforms

Sediment from Longshore drift is deposited along the bay

Longshore drift creates beaches, sand dunes and spits

Beaches

Wide, sandy beaches that are formed and maintained by the continous deposition of sand

Provide crucial habitats for wildlife and are popular recreational areas

Sand dunes

Behind beaches, sand dunes have formed over time due to the accumulation and stabilisation of sand by vegetation

These sand dunes are vital for coastal defense, absorbing wave energy and protecting inland areas from flooding

Spits

Spit = Studland Peninsula

Narrow landforms extend into the water, formed by the deposition of sediment carried by Longshore drift

The Studland Peninsula helps to create a sheltered area behind it, further reducing wave energy

Ecosystems

Healthland

The sand dunes and surrounding areas support a rare healthland ecosystem, home to a variety of plant and animal species

Salt marshes

Sheltered areas, salt marshes develope

Important for biodiversity

Act as nurseries for fish and provide feeding grounds for birds

At low tide beaches extend serveral hundred meters

Extend inland for approximately 2km

Crucial for coastal protection, absorbing wave energy and reducing erosion