2023-08-09 -- Hopewell Rocks

The Bay of Fundy(1), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Global Geopark, was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2009.

During my engineering studies, I spent countless hours in the hydraulics lab, a space that captivated my imagination. Visual learning has always been my strength, and I vividly recall the intricate glass canals filled with water, where we could manipulate waves and observe their behavior. While I may not remember the specifics of every pipe and tank, the visual experiments, like calculating water levels in canals, left a lasting impression.

The tides in the Bay of Fundy offer a real-world demonstration of hydraulic principles. As the water level rises and falls dramatically every six hours, the powerful tidal currents create a mesmerizing spectacle. During low tide, vast expanses of seabed are exposed, offering a unique opportunity to explore the marine ecosystem.

The Bay of Fundy boasts the world's highest tidal range, with water levels fluctuating by an astonishing 52 feet (16 meters) every six hours. During high tide, the incoming water rushes in with such force that it can resemble a wall of ocean, temporarily cutting off access to certain areas. The attached image showcases the dramatic effect of low tide on the bay.

The receding tide will eventually leave behind miles of exposed rocks and tidal pools.

And here's a photo of the same location, captured near high tide:

You'll need to be cautious, as the exposed land will soon disappear, perhaps within minutes. Visitors must be aware of the rapidly changing tide and be prepared to quickly retreat or swim to safety.

Although many parts of the world are currently experiencing water shortages, it's still quite unusual to witness the exposed seabed of a large body of water like the Bay of Fundy.

This dramatic tidal shift presents challenges for local fishermen and boat owners, as piers and other structures can become submerged or exposed. To address this issue, they've developed some innovative solutions.

I often wonder how rising sea levels will impact this unique ecosystem. Will this delicate habitat, which has evolved to thrive with a specific tidal cycle, be able to adapt to changing conditions?