With increasing importance being placed on the maintenance and management of coastlines and the nearshore terrestrial environment, knowing the current status of the nearshore environment is a useful tool in coastal zone management.
Field scientists from Fugro Environmental are experienced in conducting intertidal and terrestrial surveys to establish environmental sensitivity indices as well as delineate any sensitive habitats such as mangroves.
A variety of sampling methodologies are used to semi-quantitatively assess the area, dependent on the habitat type and flora / fauna present. The intertidal area is classified into zones which are further investigated using transects and quadrats to identify the composition and abundance of biological communities. Physico-chemical parameters are analysed from the sediments and in-situ water samples. Video footage and digital still photography is recorded within the survey area and geographically referenced using GPS. The data collected is used to further groundtruth satellite imagery and accurately map habitats and biotopes present.