Author(s): Axel Winterscheid, Reiss Marcel, Shaikh Suleman

Linked Author(s): Axel Winterscheid

Keywords: Morphodynamics; Estuary; Multibeam Echo Sounder; Sedimentation Rates; Dredging;

Abstract: Maintenance dredging is the result of sediment deposits on the river bed. The existing time lag between dredging and the time of sedimentation is a key factor which depends on various operational constraints, such as scheduling of the pre-dredging survey or availability of dredging equipment. Therefore, dredging statistics often do not represent actual sedimentation events. In waterways and harbors, frequent multibeam echo sounder (MBES) data records are widely available and support the analysis of short-term dynamics. This paper presents a method to develop a time series of sedimentation rates from a series of MBES data records. A particular challenge was to take into account frequent dredging activities by using available information on dredging volumes and locations in order to correct sedimentation rates. The Elbe estuary was chosen as a case study to analyze sedimentation dynamics and the most likely factors of influence, particularly at the major dredging sites. Using specific examples, it is demonstrated that the knowledge of estuarine-wide sedimentation rates is elemental to improving our knowledge of river system dynamics and optimizing sediment management concepts.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/38WC092019-0902

Year: 2019