Sedimentation and erosion in connection with ship traffic,Göteborg Harbour,Sweden

Two detailed bathymetric surveys document the effects of increased turbulence due to jet-propelled ferries and other ship traffic in Göteborg Harbour. Sedimentation is enhanced in areas where the water stratification is disturbed by harbour design and ship traffic. However, accumulation is dependent on bottom conditions, and erosion is prevalent in areas with heavy ship traffic, especially at turning sites. A geostatistical analysis of spatial bathymetric data indicates greater variability but a longer range of dependence between sites within areas of accumulation in comparison with those characterised by erosion or mixed erosion and accumulation. Changes in the geostatistical relationships induced by directing the comparison of sites along or across the channel are also possible to interpret in connection with the sedimentation conditions. Bathymetric variations, mineralogical trends, and contaminant changes support the interpretation of high bottom sediment mobility and the focusing of accumulation and erosion in specific areas.