Rygårde Strand

Denmark Coastal 1 - Excellent

Rygårde Strand is a sandy beach approximately 0.7 km long and 20 metres wide located in the northern part of Norddjurs Municipality in Denmark. The beach features some gravel and stones, with considerable deposits of seaweed and shells. The seabed is sandy with some gravel and stones, extending approximately 230 metres from the shoreline to a depth of 2 metres. The beach is classified as having excellent water quality based on regular monitoring of E. coli and enterococci levels over a four-year period.

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Water

Sandy seabed with some gravel and stones. Beach length approximately 0.7 km, width approximately 20 metres. Distance from shoreline to 2-metre depth is approximately 230 metres. Water temperature varies between 10°C and 24°C during the bathing season. Saltwater. Dominant surface water current flows from east to west.

Location

Rygårde Strand is located in the northern part of Norddjurs Municipality. The GPS reference point is Rygårde Strand, Strandvænget, 8961 Allingåbro. Access to the beach is available at several points along Strandvænget. There are 4 large car parks and 1 smaller car park located close to the beach, with paths from all car parks to the beach.

Facilities

4 large car parks and 1 smaller car park; scattered tables and benches along the beach; lifeguard posts installed on the beach; dry toilets at 2 of the car parks; shelter area at the western end. Dogs must be kept on a lead from 1 April to 30 September.

Water Quality

Water quality is classified as excellent (Udmærket kvalitet). Classification is based on regular monitoring samples taken over a four-year period analysing E. coli and enterococci. Bacterial concentrations were low and stable during 2009–2012. Identified potential pollution sources include: scattered settlements not connected to sewerage network with risk of wastewater discharge; agricultural businesses in the upstream area with risk of slurry tank overflow; boat toilet tank discharge; and maritime accidents. Risk of short-term faecal pollution from scattered settlements is assessed as low.

Risks

High risk of large seaweed deposits washing up due to nutrient loading from Randers Fjord. Low risk of blue-green algae mass occurrence due to high salinity levels. Low risk of short-term faecal pollution from scattered settlements and boat toilet discharge. Low risk of oxygen depletion due to shallow water and current conditions. Low risk of chemical pollution from ship accidents. Pollen accumulations are a recurring phenomenon in spring that can locally reduce water quality. No risk of invasive Pacific oysters currently.