Evolution of a large Baltic beach ridge plain (Neudarss, NE Germany): A continuous record of sea‐level and wind‐field variation since the Homeric Minimum

Abstract

AbstractThe Neudarss cuspate foreland is one of the largest beach ridge plains in Europe. It comprises about 140 beach ridges which can be divided into eight ridge sets from morphological criteria, trends in course and advance as well as erosional discontinuities. The reconstruction of the foreland's evolution is based on the dating of 33 samples from 14 sites by optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and three additional datings on the basis of historical maps and aerial images. The derived progradation model shows variations in the progradation rate which are consistent with past climate and sea‐level changes. Cool (warm) periods correlate with decreased (increased) progradation rates. Both area and volume growth of the ridge sets vary in the same direction. We conclude that the progradation rate is predominantly controlled by the sediment supply which in turn depends on sea‐level variations and wind‐driven wave action. The development of the plain's relief during the last 1000 years is compared with detailed climate parameter reconstructions. The Medieval Warm Period and several phases of the Little Ice Age can clearly be traced in the morphology, thus allowing conclusions concerning predominant wind direction and aeolian activity also on smaller time scales. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.