Venø - Nørskov vig

41. Venø - Nørskov Vig

Photo: Søren Raarup

Coastal landscape. Cuspate foreland.

Venø nørskov vig map

Figure 41-1: Venø-Nørskov Vig.Photo:Geopark Vestjylland

The cuspate foreland at Nørskov Vig developed when the northward transport of sediment from both the west and east coast of Venø island formed spits that converged. When the Littorina Sea reached its maximum extent (9.000 – 6.000 years ago – see site 29 Veserne-Plet-Engbjerg) sea level was about 2 m higher than today. Powerful coastal erosion took place on the two coasts. The eroded material was transported to the northern end of the island and an underwater shoal was formed. Subsequent elevation of the land in the area raised the shoal and spits developed on both the west and east coasts.

The dominant westerly wind forced the spit on the west to migrate towards the east so that the two spits merged and finally enclosed lake Nørskov Vig. The spits contain good examples of beach ridges. Since enclosure of the lake, sediment deposition has continued with the formation of a straight spit. Nørskov Vig is a beach lake in an early stage of development since it has not yet become vegetated.

Venø - Nørskov vig

Photo:Søren Raarup

Similar coastal features occur elsewhere in the geopark (e.g. site 40 - Gjellerodde), but Nørskov Vig is the best example. It has therefore been selected as an area of National Geological Interest (NGI 72) and lies within a National Coastal Landscape area (NK 87 - Kås Bredning – Skibsted Fjord). The area is also of significant biological interest and has been selected as a Natura 2000 bird habitat and protection site. Because of the birdlife, access is forbidden between April 15th and June 15th. Seals often visit the area.

The area should not be developed for visitors because of the biological interests. There is a good view of the area from high points on the Littorina coastal cliff to the south (Figure 41-2). It is important that the coastal processes are not disturbed by human activity.