Regional Sediment Deficits in the Dutch Lowlands: Implications for Long-Term Land-Use Options (8 pp)

• Published in: Journal of soils and sediments Vol. 7; no. 1; pp. 9 - 16
• Main Authors: van der Meulen, Michiel J., van der Spek, Ad J. F., de Lange, Ger, Gruijters, Stephan H. L. L., van Gessel, Serge F., Nguyen, Buu-Long, Maljers, Denise, Schokker, Jeroen, Mulder, Jan P. M., van der Krogt, Rob A. A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.02.2007
• Subjects: Marine; ANE, Netherlands
• ISSN: 1439-0108; 1614-7480
• DOI: 10.1065/jss2006.12.199

Regional sediment deficits in the Dutch lowlands are investigated. Available 3D geological models to define natural sediment inputs are used. Recent progress in large-scale modeling of peat oxidation and compaction enables to address volume loss associated with the processes. Human sediment inputs are based on published minerals statistics. Preserving some sort of status quo with water management solutions may reach its limits in the foreseeable future. The most viable long-term option seems a combination of allowing for more water in open country and raising lands that are to be built up. Net human input of sediment material currently amounts to ~23 million m super(3)/a. Sediment deficiency in the Dutch lowlands renders the country vulnerable to Global Change.