Changes in coastal zone processes at a high sea-level stand: a late Holocene example from Belgium
Cécile Baeteman|David B. Scott|Mark Van Strydonck
Abstract This paper presents the results of an investigation late Holocene deposits on Belgian coastal plain. The upper clastic overlying uppermost intercalated peat bed were studied basis lithology, radiocarbon dates and foraminiferal assemblages to determine why silting‐up phases or beds are lacking, establish evolution sedimentary environments as well age deposits. Two contrasting sites, in quite different locations showing a stratigraphy, studied. It appears that was not gradual continuous, but characterised by short periods with high‐energy conditions alternating long where low‐energy little sedimentation prevailed. is determined mainly tidal channel activity. At about 3400 cal. yr BP, eroded narrow zones main channels this until landward limit only partly flooded mudflats fringed channels. With time, new tributaries formed network progressively enlarged. rapidly filled, followed period sedimentation, which lasted at least 1400–1200 BP. following activity lateral rather than vertical erosion, together increased sediment reworking. mechanisms change might be similar over entire plain, timing changes certainly not. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.
Journal of Quaternary Science