BESE-elements stabilize the sediment and provide conditions for settlement and growth of vegetation. To stabilize eroding edges of salt marshes and stimulate outwards expansion, we placed BESE-elements close to the marsh edge (example Texel, The Netherlands). We also planted a species of salt marsh plant in some treatments (Spartina sp.). After one year clonal outgrowth was visible. The planted Spartina was growing and expanding, and a substantial amount of other species managed to make a good start in the BESE-elements (but not in control plots). Seeds of other species were entrapped and it also appears that sediment accumulates rapidly in the BESE.
Applying BESE-elements seems a successful way to restore marsh vegetation.
