HIDDEN – Habitat Investigation in Diverse and Dynamic Estuarine Networks

Introduction

Estuaries of the Gulf of Bothnia are ecologically valuable ecosystems with unique mixtures of marine and freshwater species. Estuaries are important for underwater vegetation, fish recruitment and many bird species and have the potential to contribute significantly to blue carbon.

Despite their importance, these coastal and estuarine environments are increasingly affected by human pressures such as nutrient runoff from agriculture, forestry and other industrial activities, as well as physical constructions or alterations.
Currently, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the natural values in our estuaries, which hinders effective management of these extensive and ecologically important areas. This knowledge gap limits our ability to meet EU environmental goals and to effectively target protection and restoration measures. The project will provide invaluable information and tools for more efficient and successful management, ultimately improving biodiversity and protecting the environment in these areas.

The project will deliver in-depth knowledge of estuarine ecology, geology, biodiversity, and natural values relevant to nature conservation, restoration, and fisheries management. Key outputs include habitat and substrate maps, species distribution, biodiversity and disturbance hotspot maps, environmental toxin assessment, sediment transport and carbon storage estimates.

By combining scientific results with stakeholder dialogue, the project will identify priority areas for protection and restoration, develop practical management tools, and strengthen community engagement in safeguarding estuarine ecosystems for biodiversity and climate mitigation.

Partners: Länsstyrelsen Norrbotten/Sweden (coordinator), Länsstyrelsen Västerbotten/Sweden, SGU/Sweden, Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (South Ostrobothnia and North Ostrobothnia)/Finland, Geological Survey of Finland (GTK), Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)

The coordinator of the project: Länsstyrelsen Norrbotten/Sweden

Funding authority: Interreg Aurora Programme, the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, and the Regional Council of Lapland (Lapin liitto)

The project utilizes FINMARI (Finnish Marine Research Infrastructure network) research infrastructure such as GTK’s Geomari and Gridi research vessels.

Contact person: Aarno Kotilainen

 

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