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Reduce sediment runoff into water bodies

Habitat Function Type of work
Water bodies
Living environment, Nutrient cycle
Water bodies management

Based on climate models, precipitation is increasing in Estonia, making it necessary to establish and maintain a high quality drainage system and ditching to adapt to climate change. Drainage of wet grasslands ensures grassland productivity, but also creates water-related habitats.

Description of the action

When constructing, reconstructing, or upgrading drainage infrastructure in wet grasslands, reduce sediment inflow into drainage channels and natural water bodies.

Why?

Sediments and suspended particles entering water bodies degrade habitats, cause eutrophication (excess nutrients leading to algal blooms and oxygen depletion), and may lead to blockages.