Subtle topographic variations in the salt marsh platform, and well-defined channels and channel networks represent geomorphic structure in the intertidal landscape. These variations in topography result from interactions between physical and biological processes that control intertidal sediment redistribution and accumulation. In order to understand the origin and stability of salt marsh systems, and to shed light on the spatial variability of salt marsh system processes and functions we need to expand our understanding of, and predictive capacity for physical and biophysical interactions. The purpose to this meeting is to promote discussion between ecosystem and physical scientists who typically may not have each others audience. We hope that the meeting structure of plenary sessions, small breakout group meetings and fieldtrips will facilitate that discussion and ultimately help define how physics and ecology interact to produce and maintain salt marshes. At the end of the meeting we expect to have a clearer view of where the sciences of salt marsh physics and ecology are, where they need to be, and how to get there. The invited speakers and contributors were selected because of their potential to stimulate cross disciplinary discussions.
Ice-rafted material along the Fundy coast