Influence of flushing and other characteristics of coastal lagoons using data from Ghana
Influence of flushing and other characteristics of coastal lagoons using data from Ghana
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Date
2017
Authors
Boateng, Isaac
Mitchell, Steve
Couceiro, Fay
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Publisher
University of Portsmouth
Abstract
The challenges associated with managing systems of shallow coastal lagoons along a
rapidly evolving coastline are illustrated in a case study of small lagoon systems in
Ghana where these important structures are relied on by a range of different
stakeholders for a variety of different purposes including fishing, tourism and salt
production. Results of some water quality measurements are presented, showing that
these lagoons have poor ecological status where they experience either a lack of
flushing by the tide, or large amounts of anthropogenic inputs, or both. A vulnerability
assessment is applied to the lagoons in question and this reveals a varying degree of
threat from climate change to the operation and use of the lagoons. Our understanding
of these systems suggests that a set of 1D hydrodynamic models, underpinned by an
understanding of the local coastal sediment transport in each case, is appropriate, and
could then be used to inform stakeholders and management in decision making.
Integrated, broad-ranging management strategies must adapt to the realities of climate
change in order to allow the sustainable use of these lagoons in providing economic
benefits, ecosystem services, and elements of coastline protection for the benefit of the
local and regional population and its economy.
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Citation
Mitchell, S., Boateng, I., & Couceiro, F. (2017). Influence of flushing and other characteristics of coastal lagoons using data from Ghana. Ocean & Coastal Management, 143, 26-37.