Senegal and Gambia.

Abstract

The geological structure of Senegal and Gambia includes Terminal Continental sandstones, evident in coastal outcrops and volcanic outcrops at the tip of the heavily faulted Cap Vert Peninsula. The tide is observed 440 km upstream during the low stages of the Senegal river. The main dynamic force is the N.W. swell, and the dominant coastal wind blows from the N/N.W. Describes the form of the Senegal delta, with its long sand spit which deflects the river mouth to the south. Wind action affects dune evolution and wind waves help to build recurved spits. The Niayes coast is sandy with low dunes, behind which there are depressions (swamps in the wet season). To the south the typical features are the estuaries and marshes, in which mangroves flourish. Notes polder reclamation of the 'tann' tidal marshes. (C.J.U.)