Hydrodynamic modelling in determining the suitability of mangrove planting on the coast of Sibu, Sarawak
Mangroves are tidal forests commonly observed along the sheltered shorelines of most tropical and few subtropical countries. Mangrove forests act as a natural buffer against the threat of big waves, strong winds and storm surges; and their ability to absorb wave energy helps to stabilize coastal areas from erosion. At present, mangrove ecosystem worldwide is threatened by the dynamic forces of the nature and rapid development. This justifies an increase in awareness regarding mangrove protection as well as mangrove rehabilitation. Furthermore, the potential of using mangrove forests for effective and efficient coastal protection and storm attenuation has heightened interest in mangrove rehabilitation programs throughout the Asian region. However, lack of studies and information on hydrodynamics effect on mangrove growth has become a challenge to ensure successful planting, particularly in areas with strong tidal and high currents. Therefore, a study has been conducted to investigate the hydrodynamic conditions that affect the growth and survival of mangroves on the coast of Sibu, Sarawak. The hydrodynamic conditions emphasized in this study are the behavior of waves, currents and tides. These in situ data were collected and used as an input in the hydrodynamic modeling using Mike 21 Hydrodynamic (HD) Module and Spectral Wave (SW) Module developed by Denmark Hydraulics Institute (DHI). Model analysis and site verification indicate that the maximum current speed along the coast of Sibu is higher than 0.3m/s while maximum wave heights are between 0.3m to 0.8m. These conditions may cause erosion and also effecting the mangrove growth and survival.
Authors
Abstract
Mangroves are tidal forests commonly observed along the sheltered shorelines of most tropical and few subtropical countries. Mangrove forests act as a natural buffer against the threat of big waves, strong winds and storm surges; and their ability to absorb wave energy helps to stabilize coastal areas from erosion. At present, mangrove ecosystem worldwide is threatened by the dynamic forces of the nature and rapid development. This justifies an increase in awareness regarding mangrove protection as well as mangrove rehabilitation. Furthermore, the potential of using mangrove forests for effective and efficient coastal protection and storm attenuation has heightened interest in mangrove rehabilitation programs throughout the Asian region. However, lack of studies and information on hydrodynamics effect on mangrove growth has become a challenge to ensure successful planting, particularly in areas with strong tidal and high currents. Therefore, a study has been conducted to investigate the hydrodynamic conditions that affect the growth and survival of mangroves on the coast of Sibu, Sarawak. The hydrodynamic conditions emphasized in this study are the behavior of waves, currents and tides. These in situ data were collected and used as an input in the hydrodynamic modeling using Mike 21 Hydrodynamic (HD) Module and Spectral Wave (SW) Module developed by Denmark Hydraulics Institute (DHI). Model analysis and site verification indicate that the maximum current speed along the coast of Sibu is higher than 0.3m/s while maximum wave heights are between 0.3m to 0.8m. These conditions may cause erosion and also effecting the mangrove growth and survival.
Citation
Ikmalzatul Abdullah, Nor Aslinda Awang, Wan Ahmad Hafiz W.M.A., Dunstan Anthony P.. 2020. Hydrodynamic modelling in determining the suitability of mangrove planting on the coast of Sibu, Sarawak. Digital NAHRIM Publication Repository.