Frequently asked questions webinar Noordkop
On June 24, 2024, we organized an informative webinar. Below are the most frequently asked questions and corresponding answers.
Why is the design of the salt barrier, an essential part of this project, not yet known?
Research is still being conducted into the design and effectiveness of the salt barrier in the Spuikanaal. When construction of the Oostoever pumping station begins, it will also be known whether and how the salt barrier will be designed. There will then be sufficient time to build and deliver it before the Oostoever pumping station is put into operation.
Is the salt barrier necessary under normal conditions to prevent salt intrusion?
The salt barrier is an emergency measure, which under normal circumstances is not necessary to keep the salt tongue at bay. Under normal circumstances, the salt tongue is controlled by the automated water management system (monitoring and control) that controls the sluice gate, the pumping station, and the fish passage. This system allows the amount of seawater to be let in to be controlled by partially or completely closing the Oostoever fish passage. In addition, the salt tongue can be reduced by discharging water through the Oostoever sluice. Finally, if these measures are insufficient or not possible, the Oostoever pumping station can be activated.
Are all the pumping stations that pump water from the Amstelmeerboezem passable for fish?
The water board's policy requires that all new pumping stations be fish-friendly. This means that a fish passage must be constructed, or that pumps must be fish-friendly and passable. A fish-friendly pump is designed in such a way that fish can swim through the pump without injury while water is being pumped.
Does this project play a role in current climate change developments?
In addition to improving fish migration, the measures, and in particular the pumping station, will also ensure that the Amstelmeerboezem is prepared for the expected rise in sea level and climate change. Climate change and sea level rise will make it increasingly difficult to regulate the water level of the Amstelmeerboezem naturally (by draining). According to current climate scenarios, a pumping station will therefore also be needed within the next 50 years to regulate the water level of the Amstelmeerboezem. However, climate scenarios are becoming increasingly relevant, which means that the Oostoever pumping station may need to be used for water management sooner than expected. The package of measures will combat not only flooding but also salinization. A pumping station will also reduce the likelihood of having to occasionally discharge relatively brackish water from the Balgzand Canal to the fresher Schermerboezem when insufficient water can be discharged via the sluice (as, for example, in the fall of 2023). The automated water management system also provides better control options, allowing for more economical use of (fresh) water.
When will the North Cape Wet Infrastructure Improvement Project be considered a success?
It will take several years before conclusions can be drawn about the effect of the various measures on fish stocks and the different target species. For this reason, monitoring (research) of fish stocks and target species will take place after construction. The target species for this project are: eel (glass eel) and three-spined stickleback. In addition, other species living in fresh and salt water can also make use of these facilities.
Does "the islands in the Amstelmeer" refer to the small islands that have recently been restored?
Yes, that's right. The original islands have been eroded and washed away by wind and water. By placing riprap on the former islands, small bays have been created, providing spawning and nursery areas for fish. defence the defence will silt up, creating high-water refuges for birds.