부산대학교 도서관

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.icesjms.2005.08.006 Byline: Alain Norro, Georges Pichot, Virginie Pison, Jose Ozer Abstract: We analyse the multi-annual evolution of bathymetry along several cross-sections of the Kwintebank (one of the Flemish Banks). An important issue in the area is the intensive exploitation under regulations imposed by the Belgian authorities that aim to guarantee sustainability of extractions. All bathymetric data collected during the period 1987-2000 at a frequency of approximately four surveys per year are analysed, to identify volumetric temporal trends. The errors inherent in the measurements taken with a single-beam instrument are examined. The lack of indisputable quality criteria led to the choice of robust statistical methods. A statistically significant annual decline of approximately 1.5% in bank volume is shown. Another practical conclusion is that a big increase in sampling frequency is necessary if the authorities set a criterion regarding the long-term sustainability of the bank and wish to have a swift guarantee that this criterion is being observed. Author Affiliation: Management Unit of the North Sea Mathematical Models, Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Gulledelle, 100, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium Article History: Received 15 April 2005; Accepted 13 August 2005