The results of integrated investigations of the Lithuanian coast of the Baltic Sea : geology, geomorphology, dynamics and human impact

Integrated investigations of the Lithuanian coast of the Baltic Sea were carried out in 1999-2004 in order to satisfy an increased demand for information about the shoreline. The area of investigations included the beach and the protective dune or cliff (i.e. an onshore belt 100-300 mwide) and reached 15-20 misobaths in the offshore region. This study has resulted in the Geological Atlas of the Lithuanian coast of the Baltic Sea, which consists of digital maps including a geological-geomorphological map, a map of anthropogenic load at a scale of 1:5000 and an explanatory note. Data arrays from shoreline geodynamic monitoring and from field and analytical studies as well as descriptions of borehole sections are provided in graphic and textual annexes. On basis of these investigations 92 morpholithological profiles of the offshore zone and 101 geological cross-sections of the onshore zone were prepared. The basic geological information in the form of maps and special data arrays allows assessment of the current geological condition of the Baltic Sea shores and enables forecasts for their development. It also can be used for environmental protection and land use in the shoreline area: prevention of erosion, designing of protected, recreation and urban areas, as well as substantiation and development of a seashore monitoring system.