2022 Volume 27 Issue 1 Article ID: 2116
Human activity has caused habitat loss and degraded ecosystem function in both marine and estuarine systems worldwide. There is an urgent need for restoration of these coastal ecosystems. Mikata-goko, a series of five lakes in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, has a long history of anthropogenic degradation; thus, habitat restoration is a key issue in the area. The Mikata-goko Nature Restoration Committee, formed in 2011, has set multiple conservation targets in three theme areas: conserving and restoring biodiversity, revitalising the local community using ecosystem services, and maintaining rich local cultures and traditions for future generations. Since 2016, a working group has focused on natural coastline restoration using workshops and active research projects. Their results and suggestions were summarised as a report in 2020. In accordance with the guidance provided by the report, a working group conducted beach nourishment at three sites, two in Kugushi-ko lagoon and one in Suigetsu-ko, in an effort to conserve the Shijimi clam. All sites were formerly natural beaches; added sediment was dredged from inflowing rivers in 2020-21. This report summarises the beach nourishment project, as well as other practices conducted under the coastal habitat restoration program for Mikata-goko.
