Assessing significant geomorphic changes and effectiveness of dynamic restoration in a coastal dune ecosystem

摘要: Abstract A shift from restoring coastal dunes as stabilized landscapes toward more morphodynamic ecosystems is underway. This paper uses results a recent case study where invasive vegetation was removed dune complex in western Canada first step dynamic ecosystem restoration project. Spatial statistical methods, used the natural sciences to quantify patterns of significant spatial–temporal changes, are reviewed and local Moran's Ii spatial autocorrelation statistic explored for detecting assessing changes. Cluster maps positive (depositional) negative (erosional) changes were derive statistically volumetric within discrete geomorphic units (beach, foredune, transgressive dune) over one year following removal. All experienced net increases sediment budgets compared pre-restoration surface. The beach highest episodic erosion change greatest annual budget. Compared beach, budget foredune 19% whereas 33%. recovered rapidly initial during subsequent events with consistently volumes attained form similar that pre-restoration. Aeolian deflation sand bypassing through two months removal peak accretion resulted depositional lobes extending smaller migrating complex, growth precipitation ridge along eastern margin. Several methodological logistical considerations discussed including sampling strategy design, data normalization control measures, incorporating uncertainty inherent relations acquired datasets ensure accuracy comparability results. Generally underutilized geomorphology, methods (e.g., Ii) recommended spatially uniform threshold approaches ability detect processes explore hypotheses on dynamics. Finally, several key indicators, believed aid re-establishing ecological conditions favor resilient ecosystems, identified effectiveness projects including: increased aeolian activity, enlarged active surface area, budgets, morphodynamics, improved diversity, enhanced resilience. Although limited temporal scope, show phase treatment effective enhancing all indicators except increasing area. Given decadal scale observations climatic longer-term eco-geomorphic trajectory stabilization region, however, it unlikely this effort will continue without continued frequent interventions.