Sandy beaches are characteristic to the Latvian coastline, also at Ventspils.
Photo: Esko Sorakunnas
One of the largest problems is a combined result of these activities and prevailing sea currents. As the currents move northwards along the coast, intensive coast wash-out takes place. The current is slowed down by the man-made breakwater in the Port of Ventspils leading to sedimentation of washed-out material (pebbles, gravel and sand) in the harbour area. As a result, this sediment material encircles the end of the breakwater and ends up in the navigation channel, which in turn leads to the constant need for dredging.
The washing away and accumulation of sediment also makes for problems at the town beach. At the same time, the beach becomes more gravelly, since the sand is blown away to the fore-dune zone during periods of dry weather.
Since 1993, the Ventspils City Council has financed a regular sea research programme to tackle these problems. The results show that the length of the constantly washed-out zone stretches northward about 12 - 14 km. Since 1947, the coast has been washed out, and it has stepped back from 30 - 40 m up to 70 - 80 m.
Future development is very much dependent on weather conditions, especially heavy autumn and winter storms. To decrease the deficit in natural wash-away, the dumping ground for dredged sediment has been moved in the shallow water zone closer to the coast. Furthermore, a planting project has been initiated on the shore to prevent the sand from being blown away. As a result, the quality of the beach itself shall improve.
For further information, please contact Ms Tatjana Valdmane at the Ventspils City Council, fax: +371 36 22929.
