Water
Bathing waters in the Bay of Seine (Baie de Seine) along the Normandy coast. The area is influenced by rivers including the Orne, Dives, Divette, and Drochon. Tidal range, ocean currents, wind regimes, and wave patterns characterize the water body.
Location
The study area covers bathing beaches in the CCED (Communauté de Communes) and the municipality of Merville-Franceville-Plage in Normandy, France. Four main beach sectors are included: Auberville-Gonneville-sur-Mer, Dives-Cabourg-Houlgate, Varaville–Merville-Franceville-Plage, and Houlgate, Cabourg, Varaville, and Merville-Franceville-Plage.
Water Quality
Water quality is classified according to Directive 2006. Bacteriological quality of bathing waters is monitored at Houlgate, Cabourg, Varaville, and Merville-Franceville-Plage beaches. Shellfish quality is classified according to prefectural order n°7/2008. Eutrophication is monitored, including macro-algae and phytoplankton proliferation episodes. Water masses HC14 at Ouistreham and HC15 at Cabourg are tracked for phytoplankton alteration.
Risks
Potential pollution sources identified include wastewater collection networks, treatment plants, non-collective sanitation systems, stormwater networks, agricultural runoff, port activities, equestrian centres, public toilets, beach clubs, bird nesting zones, domestic animal access, camping and caravan areas, fish farming facilities, and public buildings. Rivers (Orne, Dives, Divette, Drochon) and Seine flow contributions are natural pollution sources. Industrial activities and accidental contamination are also identified as risks.
