Frond ExoMatt Edge Weighting
➤ July 2023 ➤ META Test Site, Pembrokeshire ➤ SSCS
Problem
Our client Seabed Scour Control Systems (SSCS) have been providing innovative frond-based scour protection since the 1980s. Their frond mattress is created from polypropylene fronds connected by a webbed base which is weighted at the edge. When deployed, the movement of the fronds traps sediment between them, effectively covering the cables under sediment which is constantly replenished. Together with SSCS, we identified an opportunity to build nature inclusivity into the design of the edge weighting for their frond-mattress.
Solution
The development of our mattress edge blocks involved achieving a fine balance between Nature Inclusive Design and satisfying practical considerations, such as achieving the correct mass to maintain the position of the mattress on the seabed whilst avoiding any impact on bottom trawling. We identified potential features such as swim through tunnels, as well as surface textures which would encourage settling species, such as the endangered native oyster, and provide habitats for juvenile fish and crustaceans.
Results
The completed ExoMatt represents an opportunity to replenish of both soft sediment and hard substrate environments, and can be deployed using conventional methods. It is hoped that the data from this deployment can be used to reinforce the benefits of Nature Inclusive Design and the role this can play in restoring biodiversity whilst achieving our development goals.
