The critical sandpit depth for stratification identifies the maximum depth at which sandpits may begin to experience thermal stratification. This occurs when deeper pits disrupt natural tidal mixing, leading to layers of water with different temperatures and limited oxygen exchange. Understanding these depth thresholds helps in sustainable marine sand extraction, minimizing ecological risks and preserving water quality.
In the MSP Challenge, the Critical Sandpit Depth for Stratification layer highlights depth thresholds where sandpits may disrupt natural water mixing, potentially causing stratification. While this layer is not editable, it provides crucial insights for players to assess environmental impacts and optimize sand extraction strategies while maintaining ecological balance.
This layer was provided by partners from the ORELSE project.
Critical Sandpit Depth for Stratification Map - Southern North Sea
This dataset represents spatial distribution of critical sandpit depths (in meters) estimated for the onset of water column stratification across a model domain in the Southern North Sea. Output based on hydrodynamic simulations conducted in GETM.
04/2025
The original file type was NetCDF.
Not applicable.
This layer is not available in the Baltic Sea Edition.
This layer is not available in the Clyde Marine Region Edition.
This layer is not available in the Adriatic Sea Edition.
This layer is not present in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.
Co-funded by the European Union.