26.Inter-tidal Drainage Patterns

Sites of Geological and Geomorphological Significance - Figure 54

This information has been developed from the publication:

Sites of Geological and Geomorphological Significance in the South Gippsland Marine and Coastal Parks (1989) Neville Rosengren.
Geological heritage sites, including sites of geomorphological interest and volcanic heritage sites, are under regular revision by the Geological Society of Australia, especially in the assessment of significance and values. Reference should be made to the most recent reports. See the Earth Science Heritage (external link) section of the Geological Society of Australia website for details of geological heritage reports, and a bibliography.

Location:	Various sites are indicated on the accompanying map.
Access:	All are accessible only by boat and can only be observed at low tide.
Significant Features:	The sites display different tidal drainage topography on the floor of Corner Inlet. Areas with dense seagrass cover or where seagrass is absent have little topographic variation. However, tidal flats with sparse or intermittent cover develop distinctive drainage patterns. The most widespread pattern is a series of small shallow depressions usually linked by channels. The arrangement of pools and channels is dominantly in a trellis or rectangular pattern.
Significance Level:	Regional.
Management Issues:	Channels dug by propellers of stranded boats can change the drainage pattern on inter-tidal flats as noted on Western Port Bay. However, the lower density of boats and the defined nature of the major channel systems make this an insignificant issue in Corner Inlet.
Research & Monitoring Requirements:	Aerial photo comparisons to determine changes in these patterns and their development as seagrass cover changes is warranted.
Public Interpretation Possibilities:	The extensive inter-tidal flats of Corner Inlet have the potential to provide rewarding visitor experience and to provide insight into the biological geomorphological complexity of this zone. The vegetated flats are sensitive to trampling and collecting of material (e.g. sponges) exposed at low tide. Detailed study is required to identify sites suitable as visitor sites.
Main References:	Vertical aerial photographs.

Site 26, inter-tidal drainage patterns	Inter-tidal flat at low tide with Posidonia south of Franklin Channel
Channel through Posidonia on inter-tidal flat south of Franklin Channel	Drainage system on inter-tidal flat with only a light cover of Zostera
Incised tidal drainage channel developing on inter-tidal flat

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