The Paraná River Delta project in Argentina kicked off in early February! This study investigates the impact of ship-induced waves on riverbank erosion in the Paraná River Delta. The focus lies on improving predictions of wave heights generated by ships in the river.
Together with the research client, the national water institute of Argentina INA, preparations were made for the first field study. On Friday February the 13th, the first water pressure sensor was installed in the delta. By collecting water pressure data, the wave characteristics of the ships can be quantified. This is the first step in the research! In addition to wave height measurements, the channel cross-section was mapped and sediment samples were taken. This information is important for predicting wave heights more accurately and investigating the drivers of riverbank erosion. In a few weeks, the sensor will be retrieved from the water to check if everything went well.
The study site where the sensor was deployed was identified by the national institute for agriculture INTA as a vulnerable area due to erosion. The study site is owned by Alberto and his family. He explained that since the deepening of the adjacent channel, larger vessels have been sailing through the river. Since then, erosion has been enormous, and they have lost a significant amount of land as a result: the waterline has moved about 60 meters inland since the 1970s. His family’s house is built on poles to ensure they remain dry in the event of extreme high water levels.
While the sensor is collecting data, further literature review has been conducted, and the project was presented to the Dutch embassy. The ambassador and economic advisor were very enthusiastic and wish to stay informed about the project’s progress. Their support is valuable not only for this research, but also for the overall collaboration with INA.
