The tides They play a fundamental role in shaping and maintaining coastal ecosystems, especially in marshes and estuaries. The interrelationship between tidal flows and these natural spaces is key to biodiversity and environmental balance. In the context of the Basque coast, The Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa has launched an ambitious ecological restoration project in Jaizubia, within the Txingudi marshes.. The main objective is recover the natural dynamics of the tides and restore the flooding and drainage processes characteristic of these valuable habitats.
Currently, many marshes have seen their connection to the tides cut off by artificial infrastructure such as levees, dikes, and drainage systems, leading to a loss of biodiversity and increased risks from extreme events. Restoring the natural flow of tides not only benefits the environment, but also has positive impacts on climate change adaptation., strengthening the resilience of these areas to rising sea levels and flooding.
Restoration work in Txingudi: progress in coastal ecology
The main actions This project focuses on removing barriers that impeded the free movement of seawater, such as seawalls, and conducting a thorough cleanup of waste, some of it hazardous (construction debris, abandoned tanks, and other polluting materials). The plan also includes the elimination of invasive species, such as bamboo, and the planting of native vegetation native to the marsh to promote ecological recovery.
These actions seek not only to restore the tidal dynamics and improve habitats of interest, but also promote the ecological connectivity of the estuary. Thanks to this, organisms that depend on the ebb and flow of the tides will be able to enter and exit more easily, promoting the biodiversity of the area. To expand your knowledge on this topic, we recommend consulting What are storm surges and their impact?.
La project financing It comes from European funding through the Next Generation EU program, with a significant investment in both the Jaizubia project and future work planned through the LIFE Wetlands project. This strategy expands the scope of the restoration effort to other wetlands in Gipuzkoa, thus reinforcing the region's commitment to the conservation and sustainable management of its coastal natural resources.
International importance and legal protection of marshes
The Txingudi marshes are included in the Natura 2000 Network, forming part of a Special Conservation Area and a Special Protection Area for Birds. It is the only enclave of its kind in Gipuzkoa, and its importance at the European and international levels is also evident in its recognition as a Wetland of International Importance.
In total, more than 100 species have been detected in these marshes. 250 bird species, including resident, migratory, and wintering species. The recovery of species like the otter, which returned after decades of absence, is another indicator of the success of interventions and the ability of these areas to recover when natural conditions are restored. To better understand how these areas contribute to biodiversity conservation, you can explore the Trafalgar tombolo and its geological history.
Acting on tides and their dynamics means investing in our ecological future and security from growing natural threats, protecting these valuable sites for future generations.
