Database

Reduce sediment reaching water bodies and drainage channels

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Forest	Living environment, Nutrient cycle	Drainage

Based on climate models, precipitation is increasing in Estonia, which makes it necessary to establish and maintain a high quality drainage system and ditching to adapt to climate change. Forest drainage ensures forest productivity, faster carbon sequestration in wood, and also creates water-related habitats.

Description of the action

When constructing, reconstructing, or upgrading forest infrastructure, reduce sediment inflow into drainage channels and natural water bodies, e.g., by working during low water periods and constructing sediment basins.

Why?

Sediments and suspended particles entering water bodies degrade habitats, cause excessive nutrient accumulation leading to algal and plant overgrowth, oxygen depletion, and potential blockages.