Coastal Erosion

The High Coast, Kvarken, Gulf of Bothnia, Archipelago, Lighthouse

The active coastal dune fields of Finland are located between the swash zone (the zone of wave action) and the forest edge. The effect of waves during storms reaches far beyond the actual beach and can cause great changes (erosion) to sandy beaches at an exceptional speed. On the other hand, there can be periods, perhaps decades, of quiet evolution between the more severe storms. During the 90’s strong winds occurred and locally erosion of the coastal dunes at the Finnish coast has taken place. 

Thankfully, the Finnish coastal area is sparsely populated. Only about one third of the shore zone has been developed. The areas of the coastal dunes, where some erosion locally occurs, are usually desolated and undeveloped areas. 

Finland’s coastal area is in general, is pretty desolated. Forestry and coastal plains are the usual land use functions. In general, nature can take its course at the Finnish coasts. A lot of nature reserves are therefore present along the Finnish coast. In the last years however, a rapid increase in holiday houses is taking place in the coastal zone of Finland. 

Picture Reference:

http://footage.framepool.com/en/shot/181718852-the-high-coast-kvarken-gulf-of-bothnia-archipelago

Reference:

http://copranet.projects.eucc-d.de/files/000113_EUROSION_Western_coast_of_Finland.pdf