• SAC - Special Area of Conservation
  An international conservation designation to protect species and habitats of European importance. Can include marine areas.
• Sediment
  Particles that are moved by water or wind, e.g. sand, mud etc. and are deposited.
• SMA - Sensitive Marine Area
  A designation made by English Nature given to coastal areas of national importance to water life and birds. Great caution is needed in the management of such areas.
• SNCI - Site of Nature Conservation Importance
  A designation made by Local authorities or Wildlife Trusts for an area of local nature conservation interest.
• SPA - Special Protection Area
  A designation given to an area for The Conservation of Wild Birds of international importance. An EC directive.
• Spit
  A thin point on the coast that juts out into the sea with one end attached to the shore, caused by the accumulated deposition of sand or stone.
• SSSI - Site of Special Scientific Interest
  A conservation designation to protect a place of internationally important wildlife or geology.
• Storm surge
  An abnormal rise in sea level along a coast. A result of severe storms.
• Swell
  Wind generated long, rolling waves that exist after the wind, or continue once out of the windy area. Waves travel a long distance.

Search the glossary: