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parameters along a particular transect. Models will be needed to integrate the observed data, 
which have been obtained on different temporal and spatial scales, and to predict them for 
points in space and time for which no observations are available. 
Apart from the strategic questions and evaluation methods involved, also test methods for 
monitoring are to be developed within the framework of the project. This includes the 
selection of representative locations for permanent monitoring stations, using model and 
remote sensing data as a basis, as well as calibration and test systems for monitoring sensors. 
This work will be carried out in close co-operation with the environmental authorities. 
Present scientific knowledge 
Monitoring of the water quality in the German North Sea and Baltic Sea coastal zones is 
performed primarily by research vessels. Physical variables are measured by some monitoring 
platforms and moorings: temperature, salinity, currents. Special methods include, e.g., oil 
pollution monitoring by aircraft. Satellite data are used to determine water temperature and 
provide an ice warning service. 
Visual mapping of the distribution of green algae is performed using small aircraft. Along the 
river Elbe, samples are taken aboard a helicopter on a regular temporal and spatial grid. 
Additionally, automatic measurements are made at fixed stations. 
What is missing, however, is techniques for remote sensing and automatic recording of 
biogeochemically relevant variables, evaluation methods integrating observations that have 
been made on different temporal and spatial scales, and processes for the assimilation of 
observations into statistical or prognostic models. 
Although the investigations made so far have provided data on the distribution of 
contaminants in the coastal zone, it has not been possible, e.g. to develop a realistic transport 
model for the substantial amount of particle-bound contaminants, which have transport 
properties differing from those of dissolved contaminants. Another aspect where basic data are 
missing, and which consequently could not be considered, is biologically and chemically 
induced transformation and exchange processes between suspended matter and the water 
phase. 
The current status of monitoring in the other West European countries (e.g. England, The 
Netherlands, Scandinavian countries, Finland) is similar. In many developing nations and 
recently industrialized countries, monitoring systems are just being established. An 
international observation network and data evaluation system does not yet exist. 
Activities 
Observation systems are to be developed and tested in the form of pilot projects, in co 
ordination and co-operation with the users - primarily the regulatory agencies. The test areas 
will be the lower Elbe, the tidal flats influenced by its runoff, and the German Bight. The 
experience gained in these projects is to be applied to other bodies of water. These projects 
are based on a number of investigations performed by GKSS and its partners during the past 
few years. The Federal Ministry of Education and Science has funded the CANVAS project in 
which GKSS, the BSH (Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency), and the marine research 
industry co-operate with a view to improving the monitoring system by means of fixed stations 
operating in the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Existing requirements for remote sensing 
techniques to be used in monitoring were investigated in 1996 within the framework of a study 
funded by DARA (no. 50EE9511), with contributions by GKSS, DLR, and the Institute for