Work package 2 is focusing on the parameterization and development of physical and numerical models for saltmarsh and dune vegetation of the north-sea coast of Germany to expand the knowledge of ecosystem services provided by these systems to develop an integrated coastal zone management concept. Investigations in the field and the laboratory as well as numerical simulations help with apprehending occurring processes to enable a sustainable and nature-based coastal protection with minimal anthropogenic influence to protect the coastal habitats.

Systematic observations are conducted to identify seasonal and local change of vegetation regarding zonation, height, density and biomechanical parameters like the bending stiffness. Complementary field data of soil properties and topography indicate an erosion stability and  will be measured over a yearly cycle. This allows to investigate and develop a numerical model of interactions between vegetation, hydrodynamics, erosion and transport processes. The goal is to determine the vegetation influence for storm surge scenarios in regards to climate change. Additionally, measurements of the eolian sediment transport will be carried out. As a reference, an area with low vegetation density will be used as a reference to work out the influence of halophytic growth.