PUBLISHED 24/09/26
Sampling of eelgrass and blue mussel beds is continuing in the Göta River estuary. The investigations are an important part of the environmental monitoring programme for the Skandia Gateway project and will help provide knowledge about how the marine ecosystem may be affected by the planned dredging works.
“Environmental monitoring is an important part of the Skandia Gateway project. By monitoring eelgrass and blue mussel beds over time, we can build a solid basis for identifying changes and assessing whether they may be linked to the project activities,” says Maria Carling, Environmental Specialist at the Swedish Maritime Administration.
The investigations have been carried out for several years as part of the Swedish Maritime Administration’s environmental monitoring programme, which has been approved by the County Administrative Board. Sampling takes place at several locations, both close to the planned dredging areas and in reference areas that are not expected to be affected by the works. Comparing these areas makes it possible to monitor any changes associated with the dredging. Sampling is also carried out for several years before dredging begins in order to account for natural variations from year to year.
This year’s the investigations are being carried out over two weeks in August and September. The Swedish Maritime Administration has engaged marine biologists to carry out the work, using both divers and drones.
The Skandia Gateway project involves deepening the fairway leading into the Port of Gothenburg to enable larger vessels to call at the port. The work includes dredging and the management of dredged material.
Environmental monitoring is an important part of the project’s implementation. Through recurring investigations, the Swedish Maritime Administration can monitor developments in the area and gather data to assess the project’s impact on the marine environment.