© IHK Kiel Schulz
IHK Schleswig-Holstein
When the silt gets too much
Siltation on the North Sea coast and in the tidal Elbe with its tributaries is becoming an increasing challenge for Schleswig-Holstein. The regions particularly affected are the Lower Elbe between Brunsbüttel and Hamburg and the estuaries of smaller rivers such as the Stör, Krückau and Pinnau. The marsh ports and marinas along the coast also have to contend with silting and silt deposits. The consequences range from operational restrictions and economic losses to safety-related problems.
The causes of increasing siltation are complex:
• Natural sediment dynamics: The tides regularly bring sediments into rivers and coastal waters. Due to changing current patterns, these sediments are increasingly deposited in ports, shipping lanes and marinas.
• Climate change and sea level rise: More frequent storm surges, changed runoff conditions from inland areas and a rise in sea level are increasing sediment input.
• Structural interventions: Channel deepening, port facilities, barrages and dykes interfere with the natural system and change currents, which influences sediment transport processes.
• Reduced flow velocity: Lower water flow, especially in tributaries, leads to the deposition of suspended solids.
The consequences of siltation for recreational boat harbours are serious:
• Restrictions on usability: Boats can only enter and leave during high tide or remain completely locked out.
• Safety risks: Shallow waters and poor visibility of silt fields increase the risk of grounding.
• Economic losses: Charter companies, harbour operators and restaurants lose revenue when guests stay away or berths are cancelled.
• Dredging costs: Regular dredging is costly and financially unviable for many smaller harbour operators.
Some marinas have already had to reduce water depths, give up berths or even cease operations. The situation is particularly critical for tide-dependent ports without their own flushing technology.
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The IHK Schleswig-Holstein, port operators, local authorities and associations are discussing and testing various strategies to combat silting:
• Regular maintenance dredging: The classic approach remains necessary, but it is expensive and often subject to licensing requirements.
• Flushing technology and sediment management: Modern flushing systems, use of tidal windows and targeted relocation can help to keep sediments within the system. Pilot projects are testing circular sediment management.
• Nature-based solutions: Ecological renaturation measures, restoration of tidal flats or widening of shore zones can redirect currents more naturally.
• Adaptation of infrastructure: Jetty systems with greater draught, flexible floating jetties or new access concepts can help to improve usability.
• Cooperation and joint financing: Regional port communities, state support programmes and EU funds can be pooled to increase economic efficiency.
• Scientific support: Monitoring, modelling and technical innovations (e.g. satellite-based sediment observation) provide important decision-making bases.
Silting in the North Sea and Elbe regions of Schleswig-Holstein is a complex problem with major implications for marinas, water sports and regional value creation. Without coordinated countermeasures, many smaller ports are at risk of closure in the medium term. Strategic sediment management, technological innovation and political support are needed to maintain maritime infrastructure in the long term. Dialogue between science, port operators, the tourism industry and administration is particularly important in order to develop sustainable and practicable solutions.
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