Towards integrated management of sandy anthropogenic shores: Developing tools for the exploration of human-natural interactions

On beaches with sparse vegetation, the wind will locally slow down and divert around the vegetation, leading to sedimentation in the wake of the vegetation.

“On beaches with sparse vegetation, the wind will locally slow down and divert around the vegetation, leading to sedimentation in the wake of the vegetation (Mayaud and Webb, 2017).”

• cites Mayaud and Webb, 2017 sourcePartly supported

  Section 2.1 says vegetation shelters the ground, creates a wake in its lee, alters wind velocity, and traps sediment; Section 2.1.1 describes airflow around individual plants. These passages support the proposed mechanism, but they discuss dryland vegetation generally, not sparse vegetation on beaches specifically. (LLM, conf=0.83)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

During the last decade since the construction of the first SAS, several research groups have studied various physical, ecological, and socioeconomic aspects of SAS.

“During the last decade since the construction of the first SAS, several research groups have studied various physical (Poppema et al., 2022;Pourteimouri et al., 2021;Hoonhout and de Vries, 2017;De Bakker et al., 2016;Huisman et al., 2016;Van der Weerd and Wijnberg, 2016), ecological (Herman et al., 2021;Van Egmond et al., 2018;Cohen et al., 2010), and socioeconomic (Wienhoven et al., 2021;Aukes et”

• cites Poppema et al., 2022Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Herman et al., 2021 sourceSupported
• cites Wienhoven et al., 2021Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Conducted studies about coastal management in the Netherlands, especially SAS, have mainly focused on the flood safety function and rarely on the recreational function of SAS.

“Conducted studies about coastal management in the Netherlands, especially SAS, have mainly focused on the flood safety function considering erosion and sedimentation caused by natural processes (Ribas et al., 2023;Hoonhout and de Vries, 2017;Huisman et al., 2016;van der Weerd and Wijnberg, 2016), and rarely on the recreational function of SAS.”

• cites Ribas et al., 2023 sourceSupported
• cites Hoonhout and de Vries, 2017 sourcePartly supported

  The Introduction and Section 5.3 frame mega nourishments in terms of coastal safety and examine how sediment transport affects dune growth and coastal protection. The paper does not establish that Dutch coastal-management studies generally focus mainly on flood safety or rarely study recreation; Section 2 notes that the Sand Motor is intended to stimulate recreation as well. (LLM, conf=0.85)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
• cites Huisman et al., 2016 sourcePartly supported

  The Study area section describes the Sand Motor as a buffer against coastal erosion, and the paper examines sediment redistribution and hydrodynamic processes there. This supports citing it as an example of research on physical coastal processes, but our copy does not establish that Dutch coastal-management studies mainly focus on flood safety or rarely address recreation. Page numbers were not available in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.82)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

The Sand Motor and HBD were selected because both sites experience innovative, nature-based coastal management.

“These two case studies were selected because both sites experience innovative, nature-based coastal management (Aukes et al., 2020).”

• cites Aukes et al., 2020 sourcePartly supported

  The Introduction describes Hondsbossche Duinen as the site of the Netherlands’ first non-experimental mega-nourishment, and Section 4.3 describes its sandy coastal-protection plan. That supports the characterization of HBD as an innovative coastal-management site. Our copy does not address the Sand Motor or say that both sites were selected for this reason (searched: “Sand Motor”). (LLM, conf=0.86)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

Within recreation studies, ABMs have explored people's behaviour and distribution among recreational attractions, ranging from national to urban scales.

“Within recreation studies, ABMs have explored people's behaviour and distribution among recreational attractions, ranging from national to urban scales (Štekerová et al., 2022;Tratalos et al., 2013).”

• cites Štekerová et al., 2022 sourcePartly supported

  The Results section describes agent-based models of visitor movement among points of interest in a tourist area and a protected landscape area. The paper also discusses visitor behaviour and spatial distribution, but the cited passages do not establish the claimed range of recreation studies from national to urban scales. No page numbers are available in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.82)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
• cites Tratalos et al., 2013 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Our developed model provides essential information on visitor numbers, facility demand, and visitation intensity, which are crucial for analysing beach carrying capacity.

“Our developed model provides essential information on visitor numbers, facility demand, and visitation intensity, which are crucial for analysing beach carrying capacity-the ideal number of people a beach can accommodate sustainably (Botero et al., 2013;Cisneros et al., 2016;Silva et al., 2008).”

• cites Botero et al., 2013 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites Cisneros et al., 2016 sourceSupported
• cites Silva et al., 2008 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Human activities, including beach management operations and recreational use, affect the development of Ammophila arenaria in coastal areas.

“Additionally, human activities, including beach management operations and recreational use, have also been shown to affect the development of Ammophila arenaria in coastal areas (van Rosmalen et al., 2025;Bakhshianlamouki et al., 2023;Šilc et al., 2017).”

• cites van Rosmalen et al., 2025 sourcePartly supported

  The Conclusion reports that anthropogenic pressure negatively affected the establishment of Ammophila arenaria on the upper beach, supporting the recreational-use part of the claim. The Materials and methods (Research sites) says the study beaches were not mechanically cleaned, so this paper does not show an effect of beach management operations. (LLM, conf=0.88)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
• cites Bakhshianlamouki et al., 2023Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Šilc et al., 2017Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Recreational activities on beaches, particularly trampling in high-traffic areas, impact vegetation development.

“Recreational activities on beaches, particularly trampling in high-traffic areas, impact vegetation development.”

• Also stated in: § 5.1 Introduction · boosted

  “For instance, studies have shown that trampling in natural and seminatural open spaces results in notable impacts on vegetation cover (Mason et al., 2015;Roovers et al., 2004;Sun and Liddle, 1993).”

• cites Mason et al., 2015 sourcePartly supported

  The ‘Effects of visitor trampling on vegetation height’ and ‘Effects of visitor trampling on vegetation cover’ sections report declines in corridors used by tourists, supporting the effect of trampling on vegetation. The study concerns shrub-dominated vegetation in national parks, not beaches, so it does not establish the claim for beach vegetation or specifically for high-traffic beach areas. Page numbers are unavailable in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.87)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
• cites Roovers et al., 2004 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites Sun and Liddle, 1993 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Nutrient content in sediments, such as nitrogen, salt, and biota, can significantly affect the performance of coastal vegetation.

“Nutrient content in sediments, such as nitrogen, salt, and biota, can significantly affect the performance of coastal vegetation (Frosini et al., 2012).”

• cites Frosini et al., 2012 sourcePartly supported

  The Introduction says nitrogen and phosphorus availability can affect coastal dune plant productivity, and the Discussion reports that nutrient addition increased rhizome production in S. virginicus. The paper does not identify salt or biota as sediment nutrients or establish that their content significantly affects coastal vegetation performance; its mention of anaerobic microorganisms concerns a possible effect of severe sand burial. (LLM, conf=0.88)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

Vegetation development on sandy beaches is influenced by various biophysical factors, including soil moisture, salinity, salt spray, sand burial, and erosion, as well as human activities such as visitor impact.

“Vegetation development on sandy beaches is influenced by various biophysical factors, including soil moisture, salinity, salt spray, sand burial, and erosion (Bonte et al., 2021), as well as human activities such as visitor impact (Bakhshianlamouki et al., 2023).”

• cites Bonte et al., 2021 sourcePartly supported

  Bonte et al. report that marram-grass germination requires moist conditions and is inhibited by high salinity (Marram Establishment, p. 2); they also describe effects of sand burial (p. 2) and erosion on dune vegetation (Discussion and Outlook, p. 7). The cited portion of the sentence extends these findings about marram grass and coastal dunes to sandy-beach vegetation generally, and our copy does not identify salt spray as a factor. Visitor impact is attributed to a different citation, not Bonte et al. (LLM, conf=0.87)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
• cites Bakhshianlamouki et al., 2023Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

In an area with high visitation intensity, the mortality ratio of vegetation is higher.

“In an area with high visitation intensity, the mortality ratio of vegetation is higher.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Wind transports sand from the beach into the dunes and the vegetation on the dunes helps capture this transported sand, promoting dune growth in both height and width.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Beyond their ecological value, dune vegetation plays a crucial role in sediment capture, erosion reduction during extreme events, flow velocity reduction, and accelerating recovery after storms.

Scenario analysis highlights the model's effectiveness for analysing the interactions between SAS landscape layout, weather conditions, and visitation intensity.

“Scenario analysis highlights the model's effectiveness for analysing the interactions between SAS landscape layout, weather conditions, and visitation intensity.”

The interactions among recreational facility layouts, weather conditions, recreational activities, and vegetation development are highly complex and sensitive to the parameters considered.

“The results from our analysis using the ABM demonstrated that the interactions among recreational facility layouts, weather conditions, recreational activities, and vegetation development are highly complex and sensitive to the parameters considered.”

• Also stated in: § 5.5 Conclusions · boosted

  “The results from our analysis using the ABM demonstrated that the interactions among recreational facility layouts, weather conditions, recreational activities, and vegetation development are highly complex and sensitive to the parameters considered.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Wind transports sand from the beach into the dunes and the vegetation on the dunes helps capture this transported sand, promoting dune growth in both height and width.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Beyond their ecological value, dune vegetation plays a crucial role in sediment capture, erosion reduction during extreme events, flow velocity reduction, and accelerating recovery after storms.

The analysis identified three distinct visitor motivation clusters: socialising, relaxation while appreciating beach landscapes, and engaging in sports activities.

“The analysis identified three distinct visitor motivation clusters: socialising, relaxation while appreciating beach landscapes, and engaging in sports activities.”

• Also stated in: § 2.5 Conclusions · plain

  “The analysis identified three distinct visitor motivation clusters: socialising, relaxation while appreciating beach landscapes, and engaging in sports activities.”

The model identifies areas most impacted by visitor activity.

“By monitoring visitation intensity, the model identifies areas most impacted by visitor activity.”

SAS visitors expressed satisfaction with the current beach width, highlighting their appreciation for the spaciousness and sense of freedom it provides.

“Moreover, SAS visitors expressed satisfaction with the current beach width, highlighting their appreciation for the spaciousness and sense of freedom it provides.”

The outcomes of each recreation and vegetation sub-model inform and influence one another, creating a comprehensive analysis of the interaction between recreational activities and vegetation growth and development.

“The outcomes of each recreation and vegetation sub-model inform and influence one another, creating a comprehensive analysis of the interaction between recreational activities and vegetation growth and development.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Wind transports sand from the beach into the dunes and the vegetation on the dunes helps capture this transported sand, promoting dune growth in both height and width.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Beyond their ecological value, dune vegetation plays a crucial role in sediment capture, erosion reduction during extreme events, flow velocity reduction, and accelerating recovery after storms.

The model assessed the effects of changes in landscape layout such as introducing facilities like restaurants, entrances, or parking on areas with intensive and low visitation intensity.

“The model assessed the effects of changes in landscape layout such as introducing facilities like restaurants, entrances, or parking on areas with intensive and low visitation intensity.”

A higher dune vegetation cover reduces the intensity of aeolian processes by minimising erosion and raising sedimentation.

“It shows that a higher dune vegetation cover reduces the intensity of aeolian processes by minimising erosion and raising sedimentation.”

Natural landscape quality and quietness were the top attractions for SAS visitors.

“Natural landscape quality and quietness were the top attractions for SAS visitors.”

The developed CCM is based on stakeholder perceptions of the SAS.

“The developed CCM is based on stakeholder perceptions of the SAS and is a useful tool for understanding the potential impacts of changes made to improve a specific function, such as recreation, on other elements and functions within the system.”

Over time, dune vegetation may spread onto the beach, leading to embryo dune growth.

“Over time, the dune vegetation may spread onto the beach, leading to embryo dune growth.”

There is a limited number of research studies that have used cognitive mapping to assess specific issues in coastal systems.

“Despite cognitive mapping being used to study various complex socio-environmental systems, such as water resource management (Inam et al., 2015;Zhang et al., 2021;Nyam et al., 2021), water pollution (Diwakar and Thakur, 2012;Belayutham et al., 2016), and flood disasters (Rehman et al., 2019;Dzulkarnain et al., 2019), there is a limited number of research studies that have used this approach to ass”

Water sports activities have negative influences on nature.

“However, water sports activities have negative influences on nature.”

These decisions may have controversial impacts on the flood safety objective.

“Our results reveal that these decisions may have controversial impacts on the flood safety objective.”

Embryo dune growth decreases sediment transport between the beach and the main dune.

“However, developing the embryo dune will decrease the sediment transport between the beach and the main dune.”

• Also stated in: § 2.3.3.1 Planting vegetation · plain

  “Thus, embryo dune growth can impede sediment transport between the beach and the main dune”

The reduction in sand transport over the dunes enhances the satisfaction of beach visitors and local residents by reducing wind-blown sand and salt spray.

“The reduction in sand transport over the dunes enhances the satisfaction of beach visitors and local residents by reducing wind-blown sand and salt spray.”

Stakeholders identified 125 concepts.

“Stakeholders have identified 125 concepts.”

Sediment volume in the SAS system is an important variable affecting the basic coastline, coastal foundation, and dune height.

“The sediment volume in the SAS system is an important variable affecting the basic coastline, coastal foundation, and dune height.”

The lagoon becomes an obstacle in delivering sediment to the dunes located behind it, as it captures significant amounts of drifting sand, hindering their expected development.

“From a flood safety perspective, the lagoon becomes an obstacle in delivering sediment to the dunes located behind it, as it captures significant amounts of drifting sand, hindering their expected development.”

Users perceive the SAS as either natural or semi-natural beaches, as intended by their designers and managers.

“The result of analysis also indicates that users perceive the SAS as either natural or semi-natural beaches, as intended by their designers and managers.”

Despite significant human intervention in the design and alteration of the SAS landscape, visitors still appreciate its natural dynamics and beauty.

“Despite significant human intervention in the design and alteration of the SAS landscape, visitors still appreciate its natural dynamics and beauty.”

• Also stated in: § 3.5 Conclusions · plain

  “Despite significant human intervention in the design and alteration of the SAS landscape, visitors still appreciate its natural dynamics and beauty.”

The peacefulness attributes of the landscape were pointed out as attractive characteristics by the highest percentage of visitors among other factors (about 40% of the visitors).

“Regarding the natural values of both study areas, the peacefulness attributes of the landscape, which result from fewer tourists and a more nature-based orientation in the design of the beach, were pointed out as attractive characteristics of the landscape by the highest percentage of visitors among other factors (about 40% of the visitors).”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

For the HBD, there is a balance between nature and the recreational quality of the landscape that is important for visitors.

“However, for the HBD, there is a balance between nature and the recreational quality of the landscape that is important for visitors.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In Sand Motor, nearly 80% of one-day trip visitors prefer to visit during summer, spring, or autumn, declining to 60% in winter.

“For one-day trip visitors in Sand Motor, nearly 80% of them prefer to visit the beach during summer, spring, or autumn, with this percentage declining to 60% in winter.”

SAS visitors' opinions about the lagoon values are closely aligned with the designers' original idea.

“This result also shows that SAS visitors' opinions about the lagoon values are closely aligned with the designers' original idea.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In Sand Motor, for stay overnight visitors, the restaurant holds the highest importance.

“while the restaurant holds the highest importance for stay overnight visitors.”

In HBD, the top four recreational choices in order are swimming, sunbathing, walking, and dining at restaurants.

“the top four recreational choices in HBD are swimming, sunbathing, walking, and dining at restaurants, in that order.”

At HBD, zone 6 was the most frequently visited zone, with 50% of visits.

“For the HBD, zones 5 and 6 emerged as the most frequently visited zones, each with a visit percentage of 60% and 50%, respectively.”

There is a correlation between the types, quantity, and accessibility of beach recreational facilities and the traffic of visitors in various zones.

“A comparison of the presence of various recreational facilities, such as beach houses, restaurants, and lagoons, and services like car parking in different zones reveals a correlation between the types, quantity, and accessibility of beach recreational facilities and the traffic of visitors in various zones.”

In HBD, swimming facilities and restaurants are each chosen by nearly 40% of local visitors as the most important facilities.

“Swimming facilities and restaurants are both chosen by nearly 40% of the local visitors as the most important facilities.”

In Sand Motor, approximately 30% of local visitors rated almost all surveyed recreational facilities as necessary.

“In Sand Motor, considering recreational facilities, almost all the facilities mentioned in our survey have been rated as necessary by approximately 30% of the local visitors.”

Across both beaches, spending time with friends and family (socialising) ranks as the least important activity.

“Across both beaches, spending time with friends and family (socialising) ranks as the least important activity.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In HBD, a similar percentage of locals who visit during summer also frequent the beach during spring, autumn, and winter.

“In HBD, a similar percentage of locals who visit during the summer also frequent the beach during spring, autumn, and winter.”

In HBD, approximately 40% of stay overnight visitors prioritise the cycling path and restaurants as their top facilities.

“approximately 40% of stay overnight visitors prioritise the cycling path and restaurants as their top facilities”

Most visitors are satisfied with the current beach width: 77% in the Sand Motor case and 90% in the HBD case.

“As shown, most visitors are satisfied with the width as is: 77% in the Sand Motor case and 90% in the HBD case.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

At Sand Motor, zone 1 had the highest percentage of participant visits, with 60% of visitors.

“at the Sand Motor, zone 1 has the highest percentage of participant visits, with 60% of visitors”

In Sand Motor, for one-day trip visitors, car parking is the most essential facility.

“for one-day trip visitors, car parking is the most essential facility”

The percentage of visitors who find recreational potential an appealing aspect of the landscape in HBD (40%) is twice that of Sand Motor visitors (21%).

“Furthermore, the comparison of the percentage of visitors who find recreational potential an appealing aspect of the landscape in HBD (40%) is twice that of Sand Motor visitors (21%).”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

Beach width is an attractive factor of the landscape related to physical attributes.

“Another attractive factor of the landscape, related to physical attributes, is beach width.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

Most participants exit the beach from the same entrance where they initially entered.

“most participants mentioned during the beach interviews that they exit the beach from the same entrance where they initially entered.”

For the HBD, the most prevalent motivation for local visitors is relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.

“Conversely, for the HBD, the most prevalent motivation for local visitors is relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

At HBD, zone 5 was the most frequently visited zone, with 60% of visits.

“For the HBD, zones 5 and 6 emerged as the most frequently visited zones, each with a visit percentage of 60% and 50%, respectively.”

In Sand Motor, surfing facilities are rated as the least important by local visitors.

“and surfing facilities, which are rated as the least important.”

In Sand Motor, stay overnight visitors prefer cycling more than sunbathing.

“However, stay overnight visitors prefer cycling more than sunbathing.”

In Sand Motor, about 90% of locals still visit the beach during other seasons.

“In Sand Motor, there is only a slight decrease during other seasons, where about 90% of locals still visit the beach.”

Attributes associated with the recreational quality of the landscape were mentioned by the lowest percentage of visitors as an attractive aspect of the landscape.

“Conversely, attributes associated with the recreational quality of the landscape were mentioned by the lowest percentage of visitors as an attractive aspect of the landscape.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In both study areas, visitors consider the lagoon more important for enhancing the landscape quality and natural values than for recreation.

“As the figure shows, in both study areas, visitors consider the lagoon more important for enhancing the landscape quality and natural values than for recreation.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

Visitors to the Sand Motor are more interested in the natural values of the beach than in the other landscape quality clusters.

“In general, the comparison between the three different clusters of landscape quality shows that visitors to the Sand Motor are more interested in the natural values of the beach.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

The maximum distance visitors typically move along the shore from entrances to their intended visiting points varies between 700 and 1500 metres.

“the maximum distance visitors typically move along the shore from entrances to their intended visiting points varies between 700 and 1500 metres.”

At HBD, zone 5, which has access to car parking and a beach entrance leading to multiple facilities such as a lagoon and beach pavilion, has more visitors than zone 3, which lacks recreational facilities.

“at the HBD beach, zone 5, with access to car parking and a beach entrance that leads to multiple facilities, such as a lagoon and beach pavilion, has more visitors than zone 3, which lacks recreational facilities.”

In HBD, about 70% of one-day trip visitors rate car parking as the most essential facility.

“about 70% of one-day trip visitors rate car parking as the most essential facility”

The results do not suggest a relationship between visitor types and recreational activity preferences.

“Consequently, these results do not suggest a relationship between visitor types and recreational activity preferences.”

In Sand Motor, beach houses are not considered important by local visitors.

“The only exceptions are beach houses, which are not considered important to them”

At Sand Motor, zones 7 and 8 had the lowest percentage of visits.

“Conversely, zones 7 and 8 experienced the lowest percentage of visits.”

In both study areas, the highest percentage of participants, approximately 90% for the Sand Motor and 70% for the HBD, mentioned landscape characteristics related to the natural beauty of the landscape as attractiveness.

“In both study areas, the highest percentage of participants, approximately 90% for the Sand Motor and 70% for the HBD, mentioned landscape characteristics related to the natural beauty of the landscape as attractiveness.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In Sand Motor, beach houses are consistently ranked as the least important facilities for all visitor types.

“Beach houses are consistently ranked as the least important facilities for all types of visitors.”

In HBD, restaurants and swimming facilities are the second most important choices for one-day trip visitors, each chosen by around 40%.

“with restaurants and swimming facilities as their second most important choices, each chosen by around 40% of one-day trip visitors.”

About 40-50% of participants in both beaches found specific landscape characteristics related to physical aspects of the landscape attractive.

“Additionally, a similar percentage of participants in both beaches (about 40-50%) found specific landscape characteristics related to physical aspects of the landscape attractive.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In Sand Motor, for local and one-day visitors, the top four recreational activities in order are walking, dining at restaurants, swimming, and sunbathing.

“in Sand Motor, walking, dining at restaurants, swimming, and sunbathing are the first, second, third, and fourth preferences for recreational activities for local and one-day visitors.”

At HBD, zones 3 and 4 had lower visit frequencies compared to other zones.

“On the other hand, zones 3 and 4 had lower visit frequencies compared to others.”

One-day trip visitors of the HBD are primarily motivated by the desire to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach landscapes.

“In contrast, one-day trip visitors of the HBD are primarily motivated by the desire to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach landscapes.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

The highest percentage of local visitors of both Sand Motor and HBD expressed their appreciation for the natural values of the landscape.

“As we can observe in this figure, the highest percentage of local visitors of both Sand Motor and HBD expressed their appreciation for the natural values of the landscape.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In HBD, beach houses consistently rank among all visitor types as the least important or not important at all.

“beach houses consistently rank among all types of visitors as the least important or not important at all.”

In HBD, the highest percentage of visitors (about 48%) visited only one zone.

“In the HBD region, the highest percentage of visitors (about 48%) visited only one zone”

For the Sand Motor, engaging in sports is the most common motivation among local visitors.

“For the Sand Motor, engaging in sports is the most common motivation among local visitors.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

Stay overnight visitors in both study areas are attracted in the highest percentage by the motivation to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach landscapes.

“As for stay overnight visitors, both study areas attract the highest percentage of visitors with the motivation to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach landscapes.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

For the Sand Motor, about 20% of visitors find the beach too wide.

“However, for the Sand Motor, about 20% find it too wide, citing reasons like”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

One-day trip visitors of the HBD showed a stronger preference for the recreational and service facilities compared to other physical attributes of the beach.

“However, one-day trip visitors of the HBD showed a stronger preference for the recreational and service facilities compared to other physical attributes of the beach.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The survey respondents are representative of the broader population of SAS visitors.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In HBD, the preference pattern remains relatively consistent across all visitor types.

“similar to Sand Motor, the preference pattern remains relatively consistent across all visitor types.”

Among the 195 responses, 22 different motivations for visiting the beach were identified.

“Among the 195 responses, we identified 22 different motivations.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors' self-reported motivations and landscape opinions accurately reflect their actual attitudes and behaviour.

In HBD, swimming facilities are selected by 30% of stay overnight visitors as their second most important.

“with swimming facilities selected by 30% of stay overnight visitors as their second most important.”

At Sand Motor, zones 2 and 4 each received 50% of participant visits.

“while zones 2 and 4 each receive 50%”

In Sand Motor, the primary users of surfing facilities are one-day trip visitors.

“based on survey data, it is evident that the primary users of surfing facilities are one-day trip visitors.”

Comparing the Sand Motor to HBD, Sand Motor visitors showed greater appreciation for natural characteristics and quietness.

“Comparing the Sand Motor (primarily attracting locals) to HBD (drawing one-day trip and stay overnight visitors), we observed a greater appreciation for natural characteristics and quietness among Sand Motor visitors.”

We observed differences in the distribution of visitor types between Sand Motor and HBD.

“Visitor Types and Distribution: We observed differences in the distribution of visitor types between Sand Motor and HBD.”

The visitor survey revealed distinct behavioural variations among visitor types (locals, one-day, overnight) regarding activities, facilities, and seasonal preferences.

“It revealed typical movement patterns, highlighted distinct behavioural variations among visitor types (locals, one-day, overnight) regarding activities, facilities, and seasonal preferences.”

All facilities except beach houses are almost equally important for local residents.

“All facilities except beach houses are almost equally important for local residents.”

Stay overnight visitors in both areas prioritise relaxation and enjoying scenic beaches.

“stay overnight visitors in both areas prioritise relaxation and enjoying scenic beaches.”

For the Sand Motor, sports activities are the top motivation for locals.

“For the Sand Motor, sports activities are the top motivation for locals, while for the HBD, locals prioritise relaxing while enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.”

We uncovered variations in how visitors perceive landscape attractiveness.

“Furthermore, we uncovered variations in how visitors perceive landscape attractiveness.”

SASs attract more visitors with an ecocentric view.

“the results show that SASs attract more visitors with an ecocentric view”

Approximately 50% of visitors are aware of the SAS construction history.

“despite approximately 50% of visitors being aware of the SAS construction history”

Stay overnight visitors' preference declines in other seasons.

“However, their preference declines in other seasons.”

About 90% of stay overnight visitors in both study areas favour summer.

“they have a strong preference for visiting the beach during the summer, with about 90% favouring this season in both study areas.”

Our results highlight differences in facility demands between visitor types.

“Our results highlight differences in facility demands between visitor types.”

HBD's visitors prefer relaxing while enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.

“Sand Motor's one-day trip visitors favour both relaxing while enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes and engaging in sports activities, while HBD's visitors prefer relaxing while enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.”

Users perceive the SAS as either natural or semi-natural beaches, as intended by its designers and managers.

“Our analysis indicates that users perceive the SAS as either natural or semi-natural beaches, as intended by its designers and managers.”

Despite Sand Motor having a minimum width of about 300 metres, visitors are still satisfied.

“Despite the Sand Motor having a minimum width of about 300 metres, visitors are still satisfied.”

HBD's recreational facilities proved a stronger draw.

“In contrast, HBD's recreational facilities proved a stronger draw.”

Walking emerged as the most important activity in both study areas for all three types of visitors.

“Walking emerged as the most important activity in both study areas for all three types of visitors.”

SAS visitors are satisfied with the current width of the beach.

“The results also show that SAS visitors are satisfied with the current width of the beach.”

For the HBD, locals prioritise relaxing while enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.

“For the Sand Motor, sports activities are the top motivation for locals, while for the HBD, locals prioritise relaxing while enjoying the beautiful beach landscapes.”

In both study areas, the highest percentage of participants cited the landscape's natural beauty as the most attractive feature of SAS.

“In both study areas, the highest percentage of participants cited the landscape's natural beauty as the most attractive feature of SAS.”

Visitors find the SAS landscape similar to natural and semi-natural beaches.

“they find the SAS landscape similar to natural and semi-natural beaches.”

For one-day trip and stay overnight visitors, the importance of facilities depends on their recreational activities.

“However, for one-day trip and stay overnight visitors, the importance of facilities depends on their recreational activities.”

Although two SAS, Sand Motor and HBD, share similar recreational facilities, they attract different types of visitors.

“Although two SAS, Sand Motor and Hondsbossche Dunes (HBD), share similar recreational facilities like artificial lagoons, cycling and hiking trails, restaurants, and beach houses, they attract different types of visitors.”

Across both, socialising ranks lowest.

“Across both, socialising ranks lowest.”

Despite the transformation of the original natural landscape due to extensive nourishment of the sandy beaches in both areas, the designers' intent for these SAS to attract nature enthusiasts by replicating a natural setting was deemed successful.

“Despite the transformation of the original natural landscape due to extensive nourishment of the sandy beaches in both areas, the designers 'intent for these SAS to attract nature enthusiasts by replicating a natural setting was deemed successful.”

In HBD, all one-day trip visitors visit during summer, decreasing to 70% in spring and autumn and 50% in winter.

“In HBD, all one-day trip visitors mentioned they visit the beach during summer, but this percentage decreases to 70% Visitors ratio in spring and autumn and 50% in winter.”

Average temperature thresholds during weekends and working days range from 19.5 to 20 °C.

“Additionally, Figure 4.6 shows similar average temperature thresholds during weekends and working days, ranging from 19.5 to 20 °C.”

Pathway probabilities significantly influence visitor choices.

“We analysed model sensitivity by varying visitor activities and pathway preference probabilities, finding that pathway probabilities significantly influence visitor choices.”

Comparing manual counts to sensor data, we found a 5-10% underestimation, particularly on high-traffic weekends.

“Comparing our counts to sensor data, we found a 5-10% underestimation, particularly on high-traffic weekends.”

Significant thresholds for average daily temperature or daily precipitation affecting visitor numbers are identified.

“Through this process, significant thresholds for average daily temperature or daily precipitation affecting visitor numbers are identified.”

The ABM model indicates high intensity in zone 2 near the entrances, similar to Zone 1.

“The ABM model indicates high intensity in zone 2 near the entrances, similar to Zone 1.”

The results indicate that the model is predominantly sensitive to the defined pathways and the probability being chosen by visitors.

“The results indicate that the model is predominantly sensitive to the defined pathways and the probability being chosen by visitors.”

The outcomes differ depending on whether temperature increases are spread evenly across seasons or concentrated in specific periods, such as winter or summer.

“Furthermore, the outcomes differ depending on whether temperature increases are spread evenly across seasons or concentrated in specific periods, such as winter or summer.”

Rising temperatures increase visitor numbers.

“For instance, rising temperatures have varied effects: they promote vegetation growth, reduce mortality, increase visitor numbers, and shift activity patterns (e.g., more swimming and sunbathing).”

Our analysis showed no significant differences in the model outcomes when varying the percentage of different types of visitors.

“Our analysis showed no significant differences in the model outcomes when varying the percentage of different types of visitors.”

A sensitivity analysis revealed that horizontal growth rates had the greatest influence on model predictions, followed by seed germination rates and temperature thresholds.

“A sensitivity analysis revealed that horizontal growth rates had the greatest influence on model predictions, followed by seed germination rates and temperature thresholds.”

The model exhibits some inaccuracies, notably on days with high visitor numbers, where predictions are slightly lower than actual counts.

“However, the model exhibits some inaccuracies, notably on days with high visitor numbers, where the predictions are slightly lower than the actual counts.”

Rising temperatures shift visitor activity patterns (e.g., more swimming and sunbathing).

“For instance, rising temperatures have varied effects: they promote vegetation growth, reduce mortality, increase visitor numbers, and shift activity patterns (e.g., more swimming and sunbathing).”

Pathway probability significantly influences visitor choices.

“Results indicate that pathway probability significantly influences visitor choices.”

In summer, visitation around entrance E3 typically ranges between 5000 to 20000 visitors per 50 m2 for 90 days (approximately maximum 7 persons per 1 m2 per day).

“However, in summer, visitation around entrance E3 typically ranges between 5000 to 20000 visitors per 50 m² for 90 days (≈ maximum 7 persons per 1 m² per day).”

At the Sand Motor, visitation intensity during winter around entrance E3, which experiences the highest visitation compared to others, significantly decreases compared to summer.

“As depicted in Figure 4.8, at the Sand Motor, the visitation intensity during winter around entrance E3, which experiences the highest visitation compared to others, significantly decreases compared to summer.”

Most of the area in winter, autumn and spring exhibits less than 3000-5000 visitors per 50 m2 during 90 days (approximately maximum 1.5 persons per 1 m2 per day).

“Most of the area in winter, autumn and spring exhibits less than 3000-5000 visitors per 50 m 2 during 90 days (≈ maximum 1.5 persons per 1 m² per day).”

The patterns of visitation intensity during Spring and Autumn were almost the same.

“As the patterns of visitation intensity during Spring and Autumn were almost the same, we present only one of them.”

A comparison with GPS data collected at Hondsbossche Dunes shows that the model accurately reproduces areas of high visitation intensity.

“A comparison with GPS data collected at Hondsbossche Dunes further shows that the model accurately reproduces areas of high visitation intensity.”

The ABM adequately depicts the declining trend in visitor numbers in winter compared to summer.

“We can see in Figure 4.5 that the ABM adequately depicts the declining trend in visitor numbers in winter compared to summer.”

GPS data reveals fewer visitors in zone 2 compared to Zone 1.

“However, the GPS data reveals fewer visitors in zone 2 compared to Zone 1.”

The overall impact on vegetation patterns depends on the combined effects of these factors.

“The overall impact on vegetation patterns depends on the combined effects of these factors.”

In HBD, the number of visitors during winter is notably lower compared to summer, ranging between 1000-3000 visitors per 6 m2 during 90 days.

“According to Figure 4.9, the number of visitors during winter in HBD is notably lower compared to summer, ranging between 1000-3000 visitors per 6 m² during 90 days.”

Rising temperatures reduce vegetation mortality.

“For instance, rising temperatures have varied effects: they promote vegetation growth, reduce mortality, increase visitor numbers, and shift activity patterns (e.g., more swimming and sunbathing).”

The model captures seasonal dynamics well.

“While the model captures seasonal dynamics well, it underestimates visitor numbers on high-traffic days.”

On average, the disparity between model predictions and reality remains below 500 visitors in both study areas.

“On average, the disparity between the model predictions and reality remains below 500 visitors in both study areas.”

The model underestimates visitor numbers on high-traffic days.

“While the model captures seasonal dynamics well, it underestimates visitor numbers on high-traffic days.”

Similar patterns emerge around entrance E2 and the lagoon, as reflected in the model.

“Similar patterns emerge around entrance E2 and the lagoon, as reflected in the model.”

The interactions between recreational facility layouts, weather conditions, recreational activities, and vegetation development are highly complex and sensitive to the parameters used.

“Our analysis reveals that the interactions between recreational facility layouts, weather conditions, recreational activities, and vegetation development are highly complex and sensitive to the parameters used.”

The predicted spread of vegetation is more extensive toward the shoreline in upper part of the lake and in zone 1 than what is observed in reality.

“However, the predicted spread of vegetation is more extensive toward the shoreline in upper part of the lake and in zone 1 than what is observed in m reality”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Seed dispersal is wind-driven, allowing for widespread colonization.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors tend to avoid densely vegetated or wetland areas, while trampling negatively affects plant survival.

The influence of visitor movement from the beach entrance towards the lake and sea is captured in the vegetation pattern, as reflected in the retention of bare lanes between zone 1 and 2, and between zone 2 and 3.

“Additionally, the influence of visitor movement from the beach entrance towards the lake and sea is captured in the vegetation pattern, as reflected in the retention of bare lanes between zone 1 and 2, and between zone 2 and 3 (zones are identified for ease of discussion).”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors tend to avoid densely vegetated or wetland areas, while trampling negatively affects plant survival.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Stochastic processes, such as seed dispersal and rhizome spread, are integral to plant reproduction.

The comparison between reality and the ABM outcomes shows that the model's predictions around the lake closely match reality.

“Also, the comparison between reality and the ABM outcomes shows that the model's predictions around the lake closely match reality.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Germination is inhibited in the swash zone due to intense marine processes.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Seed dispersal is wind-driven, allowing for widespread colonization.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Stochastic processes, such as seed dispersal and rhizome spread, are integral to plant reproduction.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Weather conditions, such as temperature and precipitation, influence both vegetation establishment and visitor behaviour.

The CCM enables qualitative assessment of how specific management decisions may impact trade-offs among SAS's multiple functions.

“Enables qualitative assessment: It allows for an initial assessment of how specific management decisions may impact trade-offs among SAS's multiple functions.”

The outcomes varied based on whether temperature increases occur uniformly across all seasons or are concentrated in specific periods, such as winter or summer.

“Additionally, the outcomes varied based on whether temperature increases occur uniformly across all seasons or are concentrated in specific periods, such as winter or summer.”

The outcomes of the PM extended beyond the initial goal of eliciting knowledge specifically about management activities on SAS.

“Although the initial goal was to elicit knowledge specifically about management activities on SAS, the outcomes of the PM extended beyond this.”

The CCM integrates key social and biophysical characteristics of SAS and the interactions between them.

“Through collaborative efforts, we created a Collective Cognitive Map (CCM) that integrates key social and biophysical characteristics of SAS and the interactions between them.”

Increasing temperatures negatively affect vegetation mortality.

“For example, increasing temperatures have diverse effects: they positively influence vegetation growth, negatively affect vegetation mortality, increase visitor numbers, and alter recreational activity patterns (e.g., encouraging more swimming and sunbathing).”

The analysis of human activities in SAS extends beyond the opinions of management sectors to include data on beach visitors' perspectives regarding the recreational function of SAS.

“The analysis of human activities in SAS extends beyond the opinions of management sectors to include data on beach visitors' perspectives regarding the recreational function of SAS.”

The areas that became vegetated in reality were also predicted by the model to be vegetated.

“As shown in Figure 5.4, the areas that became vegetated in reality were also predicted by the model to be vegetated.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Germination is inhibited in the swash zone due to intense marine processes.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Seed dispersal is wind-driven, allowing for widespread colonization.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Visitors tend to avoid densely vegetated or wetland areas, while trampling negatively affects plant survival.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Stochastic processes, such as seed dispersal and rhizome spread, are integral to plant reproduction.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Weather conditions, such as temperature and precipitation, influence both vegetation establishment and visitor behaviour.

In the area studied, a 1°C increase in temperature has a more substantial positive impact on plant growth than a 10% decrease in rainfall.

“In the area studied, a 1°C increase in temperature has a more substantial positive impact on plant growth than a 10% decrease in rainfall.”

SAS primarily attracts visitors with an ecocentric perspective.

“The results indicate that SAS primarily attracts visitors with an ecocentric perspective, aligning with the management sector's goal to discourage mass tourism by limiting recreational facilities.”

The PM process allowed the researchers to develop a collective and comprehensive understanding of the socio-biophysical dynamics of SAS.

“The process allowed us to zoom out on the SAS system and develop a collective and comprehensive understanding of the socio-biophysical dynamics of SAS—an aspect overlooked by the sectoral approaches of previous studies.”

Increasing temperatures increase visitor numbers.

“For example, increasing temperatures have diverse effects: they positively influence vegetation growth, negatively affect vegetation mortality, increase visitor numbers, and alter recreational activity patterns (e.g., encouraging more swimming and sunbathing).”

Increasing temperatures positively influence vegetation growth.

“For example, increasing temperatures have diverse effects: they positively influence vegetation growth, negatively affect vegetation mortality, increase visitor numbers, and alter recreational activity patterns (e.g., encouraging more swimming and sunbathing).”

Increasing temperatures alter recreational activity patterns (e.g., encouraging more swimming and sunbathing).

“For example, increasing temperatures have diverse effects: they positively influence vegetation growth, negatively affect vegetation mortality, increase visitor numbers, and alter recreational activity patterns (e.g., encouraging more swimming and sunbathing).”

SAS visitors expressed satisfaction with the current beach width.

“Moreover, SAS visitors expressed satisfaction with the current beach width, highlighting their appreciation for the spaciousness and sense of freedom it provides.”

The survey revealed the landscape features that contribute most to visitor satisfaction.

“The survey revealed the landscape features that contribute most to visitor satisfaction.”

The developed ABM provides preliminary insights into key metrics including vegetation spread, total vegetation area, total number of visitors, visitor counts by type, and activity.

“The developed ABM provides preliminary insights into several key metrics, including the spread of vegetation across the beach, represented by the percentage of each patch covered by plants and the total vegetation area, the total number of visitors, visitor counts by type (local, one-day trip, and stay overnight), and activity (walking, swimming, sunbathing, kitesurfing).”

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: In January 2013, approximately two years after the Sand Motor was constructed, there was minimal vegetation on the beach (almost none), with vegetation present only in the dune area.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The plant reproduction process by both Rhizome and seed is affected by stochasticity.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The simulation begins at the time of the study area's construction, assuming no initial vegetation on the beach.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Vegetation is exclusively considered in the dune area.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: 80% of dune patches are covered by marram grass.

The vegetation dynamics model was validated by extending the simulation period over a longer timeframe and comparing the outcomes with satellite images of the Sand Motor from those later years.

“The model was validated by extending the simulation period over a longer timeframe and comparing the outcomes with satellite images of the Sand Motor from those later years.”

Key ratios for the vegetation dynamics model, such as germination by seed, germination by rhizome, vertical growth, and horizontal growth, were based on a literature review, primarily Homberger et al. (2024b) and Homberger et al. (2024a).

“The model's dynamics rely on input data for key ratios, such as germination by seed, germination by rhizome, vertical growth, and horizontal growth.These values were based on a literature review, primarily referencing studies by Homberger et al. (2024b) and Homberger et al. (2024a).”

• cites Homberger et al. (2024b)Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Homberger et al. (2024a)Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Human activities along the coast impact sandy shore landscapes, particularly due to increased coastal development for tourism and recreation.

“Human activities along the coast also impact sandy shore landscapes, particularly due to increased coastal development for tourism and recreation (Innocenti and Musco, 2023).”

• cites Innocenti and Musco, 2023Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

There is a lack of holistic research that analyses the interactions among flood defence, ecological development, and socioeconomic functions as part of a coupled socio-environmental system for SAS.

“While these studies have provided valuable insights into SAS behaviour concerning flood defence, ecological development, and socioeconomic function, there is a lack of holistic research that analyses the interactions among these functions as part of a coupled socio-environmental system.”

The results reveal the interconnectedness of various factors, which adds complexity to the system despite efforts to maintain simplicity.

“The results reveal the interconnectedness of various factors, which adds complexity to the system despite efforts to maintain simplicity.”

Complex systems like SAS are socio-environmental systems in which natural phenomena and social institutions are firmly intertwined.

“Complex systems like SAS are socio-environmental systems in which natural phenomena and social institutions are firmly intertwined (Dietz et al., 2003).”

• cites Dietz et al., 2003 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Coastal areas are multifunctional socio-biophysical systems.

“Coastal areas are multifunctional socio-biophysical systems (Rangel-Buitrago et al., 2018).”

• cites Rangel-Buitrago et al., 2018 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Due to limited empirical data, ten key vegetation dynamics parameters, such as growth and germination rates, temperature thresholds, and horizontal growth rates, were determined through calibration and sensitivity analysis.

“Due to limited empirical data, parameter values were determined through calibration and sensitivity analysis for ten key parameters, such as growth and germination rates, temperature thresholds, and horizontal growth rates.”

The vegetation dynamics model parameters for the Sand Motor were calibrated using satellite images from specific years that corresponded to the simulation period.

“We calibrated the model parameters for the Sand Motor using satellite images from specific years that corresponded to the simulation period.”

The model's performance was validated by comparing its outcomes with data from field sensors counting visitors.

“To validate the model's performance, its outcomes were compared with data from field sensors counting visitors.”

• Also stated in: § 4.5 Conclusion · plain

  “To validate the model's performance, we compare its outcomes with data from field sensors counting visitors.”

The developed CCM helps to identify conflicts of interest that may arise from management actions driven by short-term socioeconomic aims or natural conditions.

“It also helps to identify conflicts of interest that may arise from management actions driven by short-term socioeconomic aims or natural conditions.”

Several key stakeholders who play a significant role in making final decisions could not attend the PM effort, such as the policy department of the Rijkswaterstaat.

“As a result, several key stakeholders who play a significant role in making final decisions could not attend, such as the policy department of the Rijkswaterstaat.”

Recreational facilities and businesses will be less threatened by beach area shrinkage as a result of reduced sand transport.

“Consequently, recreational facilities and businesses will be less threatened by beach area shrinkage.”

Variables not shown in the CCM include wave height and energy, beach face slope, sediment penetrability and moisture content.

“These variables include wave height and energy, beach face slope, sediment penetrability and moisture content, and so on.(Janssen and Mulder, 2005;McLachlan et al., 1993).”

• cites Janssen and Mulder, 2005Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites McLachlan et al., 1993Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

In the long-term, changes in sediment geochemical characteristics will affect the ecological system of the dune areas.

“In the long-term, these changes will affect the ecological system of the dune areas (Cohen et al., 2010).”

• cites Cohen et al., 2010Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Beach vegetation and embryo dune may hinder the development of the main dune on the beach's landward side by affecting sediment exchange dynamics.

“Therefore, beach vegetation and embryo dune may hinder the development of the main dune on the beach's landward side by affecting sediment exchange dynamics.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: When vegetation extends onto newly deposited sediment and is dense enough with roots in the sediment, it will limit the erosion of deposited sand and increase the likelihood of baby dune growth on the vegetated beach.

Coastal landscape dynamics are driven by human activities related to management, economic uses, and recreational purposes.

“In addition to natural processes, coastal landscape dynamics are driven by human activities related to management, economic uses, and recreational purposes (Phong et al., 2017;Lazarus et al., 2016).”

• cites Phong et al., 2017 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites Lazarus et al., 2016Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Decreased sediment transport between the beach and the main dune can hinder the increase in main dune height, which is crucial for flood safety in locations where higher dunes are necessary.

“Thus, embryo dune growth can impede sediment transport between the beach and the main dune, potentially hindering the increase in main dune height, which is crucial for flood safety in locations where higher dunes are necessary.”

Developing a model that integrates social dynamics related to recreational activities with available biophysical models necessitates a comprehensive understanding of beach visitors' behavioural patterns, the key factors influencing their behaviours, and their interactions with various natural and physical elements in the landscape.

“Developing a model that integrates social dynamics related to recreational activities with available biophysical models necessitates a comprehensive understanding of beach visitors' behavioural patterns, the key factors influencing their behaviours, and their interactions with various natural and physical elements in the landscape (Gray et al., 2018;Singer et al., 2017).”

• cites Gray et al., 2018Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Singer et al., 2017 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Most visitors visit a maximum of three zones.

“These results indicate that most visitors visit a maximum of three zones.”

Existing models are not designed to analyse the interactions between social and environmental systems.

“However, models are not designed to analyse the interactions between social and environmental systems.”

The presence of the kitesurfing school on the Sand Motor beach and the water sports school at the HBD site have made the SAS lagoons popular for water activities like kitesurfing.

“While the lagoon was originally designed to enhance the natural landscape, the presence of the kitesurfing school on the Sand Motor beach and the water sports school at the HBD site have made the SAS lagoons popular for water activities like kitesurfing (Bakhshianlamouki et al., 2023).”

• cites Bakhshianlamouki et al., 2023Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

For local residents, there is no significant difference in seasonal visit preferences.

“This indicates that, for local residents, there is no significant difference in seasonal visit preferences.”

Bakhshianlamouki et al. (2023) initiated the first step in analysing the recreational function of SAS by developing a socio-environmental cognitive map with stakeholders from various management sectors.

“Bakhshianlamouki et al. (2023) initiated the first step in analysing the recreational function of the SAS by developing a socio-environmental cognitive map (CM) with stakeholders from various management sectors.”

• cites Bakhshianlamouki et al. (2023)Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

The findings suggest a potential relationship between visitor types and their facility preferences.

“These findings suggest a potential relationship between visitor types and their facility preferences.”

Hard structures unintentionally constrained other coastal functions, such as recreation, by physically separating land from the sea.

“In addition, these hard structures unintentionally constrained other coastal functions, such as recreation, by physically separating land from the sea (Van Koningsveld et al., 2008).”

• cites Van Koningsveld et al., 2008Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Visitors usually exit from the same entrance because their car or bike is parked nearby or close to the public transport station they arrived from.

“This is usually because their car or bike is parked nearby or close to the public transport station they arrived from.”

These landscape dynamics can have a significant impact on the recreational function of the SAS.

“As a result, these landscape dynamics can have a significant impact on the recreational function of the SAS.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The SAS landscape is subject to continuous change due to natural processes like wind, waves, and tides.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: These processes affect various physical and natural characteristics, including lagoon size and depth, beach width and topography, and vegetation cover.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The SAS is expected to become narrower over time, and the lagoon is projected to shrink in size and depth.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The lagoon enhances the beach's natural value but also traps wind-blown sand, hindering sand movement towards the main dune, which is crucial for flood protection.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Sand transport by waves and currents leads to progressive infilling of the lagoon, as it is not maintained by natural processes in this specific coastal setting.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Increasing vegetation cover leads to embryo dune development, which can negatively impact the development of the main dune essential for flood protection.

Only about 50% of on-site survey respondents provided their email addresses.

“While we successfully attracted a substantial number of participants for the on-site survey (approximately 950 respondents), only about 50% of them provided their email addresses.”

Landscape characteristics such as beach width, natural landscape elements, features like a lagoon or lake, and dynamic nature are important for attracting nature lovers.

“Our findings highlight that landscape characteristics such as beach width, natural landscape elements (embryo dunes, vegetation cover), features like a lagoon or a lake, and the dynamic nature of the landscape are important for attracting nature lovers.”

Changes in recreational behaviour can, in turn, impact the landscape.

“Changes in recreational behaviour can, in turn, impact the landscape.”

Among those who received the online survey, roughly 50% completed almost all the questionnaire items (approximately 200 participants).

“Furthermore, among those who received the online survey, roughly 50% completed almost all the questionnaire items (approximately 200 participants).”

Variations in recreational activities and visitor preferences across different seasons were not fully captured.

“The survey was primarily conducted during the summer months (except for the first year), which means that variations in recreational activities and visitor preferences across different seasons were not fully captured.”

The model, combined with usage costs, can estimate income generated from each service facility.

“This, combined with approximate usage costs, allows the model to estimate the income generated from each service facility.”

The limited number of participants in the comprehensive online survey constrained the ability to perform an in-depth clustering analysis for a detailed exploration of beach visitor typology.

“This limited number of participants in the comprehensive online survey constrained our ability to perform an in-depth clustering analysis for a detailed exploration of beach visitor typology.”

Visitors to semi-natural beaches tend to prioritise quietness and attractive natural scenery over other characteristics.

“These studies have also shown that visitors to semi-natural beaches tend to prioritise quietness and attractive natural scenery over other characteristics.”

• cites Alkhalaf, 2015Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Roca and Villares, 2008Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Cervantes et al., 2008 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Existing methods do not help to explore the impact of particular management practices or natural processes on the patterns of beach visitor intensity.

“They do not help to explore the impact of particular management practices or natural processes on the patterns of beach visitor intensity.”

• cites Toca-Herrera et al., 2014Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Kammler and Schernewski, 2004Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Reimão Silva et al., 2011Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

In the absence of obstacles, visitors generally move toward their target points along the shortest path, often a straight line between two points.

“Observations indicate that, in the absence of obstacles, visitors generally move toward their target points along the shortest path (Golledge, 1995), which is often a straight line between two points.”

• cites Golledge, 1995 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Existing methods for studying beach visitor movement provide information only about a specific period in the past or the current situation.

“Despite their significance for analysing visitor dynamics and the beach carrying capacity, these approaches provide information only about a specific period in the past or the current situation.”

• cites Toca-Herrera et al., 2014Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Kammler and Schernewski, 2004Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Reimão Silva et al., 2011Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Scenario analysis, combined with its application to two case studies with different landscape layouts, highlights the model's versatility as a valuable tool for designing beaches to effectively explore and manage visitation intensity and its effects on ecological systems, such as vegetation.

“Scenario analysis, combined with its application to two case studies with different landscape layouts, highlights the model's versatility as a valuable tool for designing beaches to effectively explore and manage visitation intensity and its effects on ecological systems, such as vegetation.”

The intensity and extent of coastal recreation impacts depend on activity type, frequency, seasonal variations, and environmental conditions.

“The intensity and extent of these impacts depend on factors like activity type, frequency, seasonal variations, and environmental conditions (Pickering and Hill, 2007).”

• cites Pickering and Hill, 2007 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Consolidative models require sufficient, high-quality data and a stable system structure for empirical validation, conditions that are often unavailable in real-world decision-making scenarios.

“Consolidative models require sufficient, high-quality data and a stable system structure for empirical validation-conditions that are often unavailable in real-world decision-making scenarios (Kwakkel et al., 2010).”

• cites Kwakkel et al., 2010Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

The validation of our model is more qualitative than quantitative.

“Therefore, the validation of our model is more qualitative than quantitative.”

Based on correlation analysis, we utilised type of day, average daily temperature, and daily precipitation to establish rules for estimating the number of visitors during the summer.

“Based on the results of the correlation analysis (Appendix 4.D), we utilised factors including type of day, average daily temperature, and daily precipitation to establish rules for estimating the number of visitors during the summer.”

Human activities along the coast, particularly tourism and recreation, significantly affect sandy shore landscapes.

“Human activities along the coast, particularly those driven by tourism and recreation, significantly affect sandy shore landscapes (Innocenti and Musco, 2023).”

• cites Innocenti and Musco, 2023Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Existing methods cannot assess how different beach visitors' movement patterns, influenced by various landscape layouts, impact the biophysical characteristics of the coastal system.

“Similarly, they cannot assess how different beach visitors' movement patterns, influenced by various landscape layouts, impact the biophysical characteristics of the coastal system.”

A spatiotemporal Agent-Based Model (ABM) that simulates visitor movement patterns influenced by various landscape characteristics is a useful tool to address this gap.

“A spatiotemporal Agent-Based Model (ABM) that simulates visitor movement patterns influenced by various landscape characteristics is a useful tool to address this gap (Morelle et al., 2019).”

• cites Morelle et al., 2019Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Weather conditions significantly impact the range of recreational activities available.

“Weather conditions significantly impact the range of recreational activities available (R.-Toubes et al., 2020; Rutty and Scott, 2014).”

• Also stated in: § 6.1 Exploring human activities and biophysical system interplay through PM · plain

  “Weather conditions significantly impact the range of recreational activities available (R.-Toubes et al., 2020; Rutty and Scott, 2014).”

• cites R.-Toubes et al., 2020Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Rutty and Scott, 2014 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

A gap exists in utilising ABMs to understand visitor behaviours and spatial distribution patterns on smaller outdoor areas such as beaches.

“However, a gap exists in utilising ABMs to understand visitor behaviours and spatial distribution patterns on smaller outdoor areas such as beaches.”

This informs management decisions on layout, like facility types, entrances, and accessibility, influencing human activity zones.

“This informs management decisions on layout, like facility types, entrances, and accessibility, influencing human activity zones.”

Ammophila arenaria growth becomes more vigorous under the right conditions of sand burial.

“Secondly, their growth becomes more vigorous under the right conditions of sand burial (Maun and Lapierre, 1984).”

• cites Maun and Lapierre, 1984 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Due to the shorter distance between the two entrances in HBD and their shared access to the same facilities, the primary concentration of visitation occurs within the entire area between these two entrances.

“Furthermore, due to the shorter distance between the two entrances in HBD and their shared access to the same facilities, the primary concentration of visitation occurs within the entire area between these two entrances.”

The developed ABM also estimates the seasonal and annual visitation intensity influenced by beach recreational and service facility setup.

“The developed ABM also estimates the seasonal and annual visitation intensity influenced by beach recreational and service facility setup.”

Once vegetation is established on the beach, it alters wind flow patterns, reducing wind speeds around the plants.

“Once vegetation is established on the beach, it alters wind flow patterns, reducing wind speeds around the plants (Nordstrom, 2013).”

• cites Nordstrom, 2013 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

The developed ABM estimates daily beach visitors based on inputs including high-season visitor counts, weather (temperature, precipitation), and visitor activity preferences.

“The developed ABM estimates daily beach visitors based on inputs including high-season visitor counts, weather (temperature, precipitation), and visitor activity preferences.”

Even relatively low levels of recreational traffic cause significant reductions in plant cover, height, species richness, and diversity.

“These studies conclude that even relatively low levels of recreational traffic cause significant reductions in plant cover, height, species richness, and diversity (Kutiel et al., 2000).”

• cites Kutiel et al., 2000 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

The relationships between temperature, precipitation, day type, and visitor numbers form the basis of a conceptual framework for an ABM.

“These relationships between temperature, precipitation, day type (working days or weekends), and visitor numbers form the basis of a conceptual framework for an ABM, detailed in Appendix 4.E.”

The results demonstrate how the number of visitors, their allocation among entrances, and the landscape of the beach collectively influence the distance between targeted visiting points, thus impacting the visitation intensity patterns across various beaches.

“In general, the results demonstrate how the number of visitors, their allocation among entrances, and the landscape of the beach collectively influence the distance between targeted visiting points, thus impacting the visitation intensity patterns across various beaches.”

Our model surpasses Dragani et al. by considering various landscape characteristics influencing visitor distribution, such as adding entrances, modifying parking lots, or opening new restaurants.

“Our model surpasses this by considering various landscape characteristics influencing visitor distribution, such as adding entrances, modifying parking lots, or opening new restaurants.”

Comparing model outcomes for winter months enabled evaluation of the robustness of the applied rules derived from survey analysis concerning seasonal visiting patterns.

“In addition, comparing the model outcomes for winter months, not just summer months, enabled us to evaluate the robustness of the applied rules derived from survey analysis concerning seasonal visiting patterns.”

Ammophila arenaria exhibits high tolerance to burial by windblown sand, withstanding up to 1 metre or even 2 metres of sand accumulation per year.

“Firstly, they exhibit a high tolerance to burial by windblown sand, withstanding up to 1 metre (Ranwell, 1972) or even 2 metres of sand accumulation per year (Baas and Nield, 2010).”

• cites Ranwell, 1972Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Baas and Nield, 2010 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Recreation and tourism significantly impact vegetation through infrastructure development and the direct effects of recreational activities.

“Recreation and tourism significantly impact vegetation through infrastructure development and the direct effects of recreational activities (Newsome et al., 2012).”

• cites Newsome et al., 2012 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Enhancing our comprehension of visitors' movement pathways in the field affected by beach layout can significantly improve the model's ability to represent reality accurately.

“Thus, enhancing our comprehension of visitors' movement pathways in the field affected by beach layout can significantly improve the model's ability to represent reality accurately.”

The developed model can be utilised for two types of beaches: touristic and natural/semi-natural.

“The developed model can be utilised for two types of beaches: touristic and natural/semi-natural.”

A daily temperature around 20°C is ideal for Marram Grass growth.

“Research indicates that a daily temperature around 20°C is ideal for growth (Van der Putten, 1990).”

• cites Van der Putten, 1990 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Short-term and long-term management actions at different stages of the SAS lifecycle influence the landscape.

“The figure shows how short-term (e.g.cleaning the beach or repairing infrastructure damaged by storms) and long-term (such as renourishment or adding a new permanent entrance to manage visitors distribution) management actions at different stages of the SAS lifecycle influence the landscape.”

In the Netherlands' maritime and wet climate, the positive influence of higher temperatures on plant growth outweighs the potential negative impact on sediment moisture.

“Given the Netherlands' maritime and wet climate, with cool summers and an average maximum temperature of around 22°C in July (KNMI, 2020), the positive influence of higher temperatures on plant growth outweighs the potential negative impact on sediment moisture.”

• cites KNMI, 2020Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Temperature plays a more critical role in influencing vegetation development in this specific context.

“This suggests that temperature plays a more critical role in influencing vegetation development in this specific context.”

The overall impact on vegetation development patterns depends on the cumulative effect of these factors.

“The overall impact on vegetation development patterns depends on the cumulative effect of these factors.”

The thresholds related to height of the plant and trampling probability are determined through model calibration and validation against observed vegetation area and distribution patterns.

“The thresholds related to height of the plant and trampling probability are determined through model calibration and validation against observed vegetation area and distribution patterns.”

The anticipated 1°C increase in average temperature by 2050 could positively impact vegetation establishment in the Netherlands.

“Based on our model results and KNMI's climate change predictions, the anticipated 1°C increase in average temperature by 2050 could positively impact vegetation establishment in the Netherlands.”

• cites KNMI, 2020Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

The developed ABM allows for an integrated analysis of how interactions influence the multifunctionality of the beach, addressing both safety and recreational aspects.

“Unlike traditional research in this field, which often focuses primarily on flood safety, the ABM allows for an integrated analysis of how these interactions influence the multifunctionality of the beach, addressing both safety and recreational aspects.”

The interaction between vegetation cover and dune profiles plays a key role in supporting the multifunctionality of the SAS.

“So, the interaction between vegetation cover and dune profiles plays a key role in supporting the multifunctionality of the SAS.”

The interaction between recreational activities, weather conditions, landscape layout, and vegetation cover may qualitatively influence the pattern of morphological changes and main dune reinforcement.

“Overall, given the importance of vegetation area in trapping sand, the outcomes of our study provide valuable insights into how the interaction between recreational activities, weather conditions, landscape layout, and vegetation cover may qualitatively influence the pattern of morphological changes and main dune reinforcement.”

One of the model's main limitations is the lack of consideration for erosion caused by aeolian and marine processes.

“First, one of the model's main limitations is the lack of consideration for erosion caused by aeolian and marine processes.”

The thresholds for plant height and trampling probability were determined through model calibration and validation against observed vegetation coverage and distribution patterns.

“These thresholds for plant height and trampling probability were determined through model calibration and validation against observed vegetation coverage and distribution patterns.”

The uncertainties arising from the quantitative values assigned based on the calibrated model may make the quantitative outcomes of the model to some extent unrealistic.

“The uncertainties discussed in the above section, arising from the quantitative values assigned based on the calibrated model, may make the quantitative outcomes of the model to some extent unrealistic.”

The gradual narrowing of the beach can intensify the impact of storms, especially those driven by marine processes during winter, which is a critical factor in vegetation mortality.

“For example, the gradual narrowing of the beach can intensify the impact of storms, especially those driven by marine processes during winter, which is a critical factor in vegetation mortality (Montreuil et al., 2013).”

• cites Montreuil et al., 2013 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

The model was calibrated by comparing its simulated vegetation patterns and total coverage with empirical data derived from satellite images of the Sand Motor.

“Moreover, to calibrate the model, we compared its simulated vegetation patterns and total coverage with empirical data derived from satellite images of the Sand Motor during the same period.”

The model was calibrated by comparing simulated vegetation spatial patterns with empirical data from satellite images of the Sand Motor taken in May 2018.

“We ran the model for five years and calibrated it by comparing the simulated vegetation spatial patterns with empirical data obtained from satellite images of the Sand Motor taken in May 2018 from Google Earth.”

The vegetation sub-model was validated by applying it to the HBD, a different location, to assess its performance regarding spatial patterns.

“To validate the Vegetation sub-model model's performance regarding spatial patterns, we applied it to the HBD, a different location.”