BL/ES 370 - The Wadden Sea: Intertidal Ecosystems endangered by human impact

The world’s largest tidal flat system is at risk! The Wadden Sea stretches around 500 kilometers along the Dutch, German and Danish North Sea coasts and is the world's largest contiguous tidal flat landscape. This ecosystem, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world, is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

This module will introduce students to the Wadden Sea’s dynamics, intertidal ecology and relevant climate-driven changes. Students will learn about sediment transport and coastal risk management, which protect towns and agricultural land from storm surges and sea level rises. Students will gain an awareness of how such safeguards impact the surrounding environment. Another important aim is teaching students to identify and examine key organisms and understand their role in the ecosystem.   

This course includes a 3-day field study excursion to the North Frisean Wadden Sea. Together with local park rangers employed by the Wadden Sea National Park Services, students will gain firsthand insights into the ecological role of the tidal flat landscape and its protection. During the field study excursion, students will visit a Hallig (island) as well as an exposed seabed. Students will learn to use several scientific devices, detect several physical factors in the field and benefit from experiential learning to strengthen their desired learning outcomes.