Description
Description for the Dataset: "Data for 'Human footprint on estuarine tidal hydrodynamics'"This dataset supports the research presented in the paper "Human Footprint on Tides in Estuaries" by Joris G.W. Beemster et al. (2026). The study investigates the impact of human interventions on tidal dynamics in 25 estuaries worldwide, comparing historical and modern conditions over timescales of decades to centuries. The dataset includes comprehensive data on tidal characteristics, estuarine geometries, and human activities influencing tidal changes.
Methodology: The research employs a global-scale comparative analysis of tidal hydrodynamics, examining changes in tidal range, high and low water levels, tidal propagation speed, and tidal asymmetry. The study leverages newly digitized historical datasets and existing studies to link observed changes to specific human activities. Data were compiled from agency databases, scientific literature, maps, and reports, encompassing tidal range, wave celerity, tidal asymmetry, channel depth, planform areas, and discharge.
Techniques Used:Digitization of Historical Data: Water level records, bathymetric charts, and nautical maps were digitized to construct along-channel profiles of tidal range and wave propagation.Interpolation and Analysis: Tidal range changes were analyzed by interpolating along-estuary profiles and identifying key parameters such as maximum tidal range and location of maximum change.
Data Availability:Previously Published Data: Researchers interested in these datasets should refer to the sources listed in the paper and contact the respective data holders for access. Digitized & Derived Data is available in this repository.
Acknowledgments: This work was funded by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) within the Vici project “Deltas out of Shape: Regime Changes of Sediment Dynamics in Tide-Influenced Deltas” (Grant NWO-TTW 17062). Financial support for this research was also provided by the U.S. Departmentof Defense’s Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) under Project RC12-3456. The authors thank all individuals and institutions who contributed to the collection, preservation, and digitization of these datasets.
Methodology: The research employs a global-scale comparative analysis of tidal hydrodynamics, examining changes in tidal range, high and low water levels, tidal propagation speed, and tidal asymmetry. The study leverages newly digitized historical datasets and existing studies to link observed changes to specific human activities. Data were compiled from agency databases, scientific literature, maps, and reports, encompassing tidal range, wave celerity, tidal asymmetry, channel depth, planform areas, and discharge.
Techniques Used:Digitization of Historical Data: Water level records, bathymetric charts, and nautical maps were digitized to construct along-channel profiles of tidal range and wave propagation.Interpolation and Analysis: Tidal range changes were analyzed by interpolating along-estuary profiles and identifying key parameters such as maximum tidal range and location of maximum change.
Data Availability:Previously Published Data: Researchers interested in these datasets should refer to the sources listed in the paper and contact the respective data holders for access. Digitized & Derived Data is available in this repository.
Acknowledgments: This work was funded by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) within the Vici project “Deltas out of Shape: Regime Changes of Sediment Dynamics in Tide-Influenced Deltas” (Grant NWO-TTW 17062). Financial support for this research was also provided by the U.S. Departmentof Defense’s Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) under Project RC12-3456. The authors thank all individuals and institutions who contributed to the collection, preservation, and digitization of these datasets.
| Date made available | 9 Apr 2026 |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Wageningen University & Research |
| Geographical coverage | Global |
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