getStory133:full:Array: Strath Caulaidh - Informed Ecological Decisions :: Caste Study 3 - Estuarine Habitat Restoration
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Caste Study 3 - Estuarine Habitat Restoration

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THE CLIENT:

Transport Scotland’s project to build the new Upper Forth Crossing at Kincardine is being run by contractor Morgan VINCI Joint Venture (MVJV). The new crossing is located in the Firth of Forth an area of international importance for rare and vulnerable species of migratory and over-wintering birds.

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THE CHALLENGE:

As part of their remit, MVJV are required to mitigate against the perceived adverse impacts of the new development. 

One such impact relates to the loss of saltmarsh habitat which occurred as a result of piles being constructed for the new bridge. A 6.5 ha area of new saltmarsh and mudflat is being created adjacent to the new bridge beside the Kennet Pans wildlife site as part of the mitigation process.

As part of their contract, MVJV are required to demonstrate to stakeholders that work on the restoration area has been carried out to specification and, most importantly, looks on track to achieving its objectives.

Whilst the end objectives were easily agreed, the technical methods to be used to monitor change on the site over time were more difficult to ascertain. Also, working conditions on the newly-levelled site were difficult due to rapid sediment accretion and regular tidal activity. 

MVJV required an organisation to design a suite of technically appropriate monitoring for the site then execute the plans within a strict set of safety criteria.

THE SOLUTION:

DSCF0502 - Kennet Pans CROPPED_1.JPGMVJV commissioned Strath Caulaidh to undertake the works associated with the monitoring of habitat restoration. SCL developed an approach which will involve regularly sampling the new mudflats and a control site nearby for marine invertebrate abundance as well as monitoring the new saltmarsh area and a control site for vegetative colonisation. 

The mudflat sampling was undertaken in late 2007 and involved co-ordination with MVJV construction staff and the Forth coastguard. Botanical monitoring is due to begin in August 2008.  The whole monitoring programme is due to last 5 years.

  
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