A field study techniques day covers the methodology and skills required to
undertake an investigation into two of the following four options: sand dune
succession or management and coastal or river processes. Work is
focused more on the techniques and methodology used in the field rather than the
investigation of issues or the testing of hypotheses. Approximately 2-3 hours
are available for working at each of the two sites.
Coastal
Processes
Travel time: 15 minutes
Sitges shingle beach
Sitges sand beach
This study investigates the coastal
processes operating along the Sitges coast.
Evidence for longshore movements and dominant wave directions can be gained
through a study of pebble long axes and alignments.
Comparisons can be made of shingle and sand beach profiles.
The impact
of coastal development pressures on fragile habitats
Location: Gava
Travel time: 30 minutes
This fieldwork investigates the threats to fragile sand dune
ecosystems along the coastline to the southwest of Barcelona. It examines the
impact of human activity and the variations in biodiversity between managed and
unmanaged dunes.
The construction of the Gava coastal walkway aims to protect the dune ecosystem
mainly by reducing extensive trampling. Landscape architecture must deal with
the abiotic and biotic processes of the dune system and the Gava coastal walkway
has been developed to achieve these goals.
Managed dune ecosystem at the Gava coastal
walkway (February 2008)
Unmanaged dune ecosystem at the Gava coastal
walkway (February 2008)
Contrasts may be drawn with the protected sand dunes at the
nearby Llobregat Delta Nature Reserve. Access is restricted to permit holders
and field visits are not possible during the Spring nesting season.
Protected dune ecosystem at the Llobregat Delta
Nature Reserve
