Data for: New insights into the coupling of tidal mudflats and coastal salt marshes

This dataset contains hydrodynamic data, depth-averaged suspended sediment concentrations (SSCs), sediment deposition data and data on the morphological evolution of the tidal mudflat for the coupled tidal mudflat-salt marsh system on the wave-exposed coast of the Dengie peninsula in the southeast of England (Tillingham, UK). Data were collected during two field campaigns (25/05 - 28/06/2016 and 20/09 - 06/12/2016). Hydrodynamic data were collected using four pressure sensors (Solnist Levellogger, Model 3001) and corrected for variations in atmospheric pressure. Depth-averaged SSCs were measured using two turbidity profilers (Argus Suspension Meters (ASM) IV), one deployed on the tidal mudflat (130 m seaward of the edge of the salt marsh; ASM 2113) and the other at the marsh edge (ASM2115). Sediment deposition on the marsh surface was measured using filter traps (9 cm in diameter, attached to an equally sized petri dish) at four locations on the salt marsh platform (three filters were deployed at each location). The morphological evolution of the tidal mudflat was determined with tracer sticks, inserted into the mudflat and retrieved after five, occasionally 2 or 10, days. The tracer sticks consisted of coloured sand, mixed with a highly concentrated sugar solution and “baked” for three days at 50°C.