If clogged side arms of the Danube need to be cleared of sediment and accumulated debris (massive trunks, branches, plants, trash, etc.), simply ordering an excavator and starting to dig isn’t enough. Preparation for this type of restoration measure takes months – ranging from identifying problematic locations, geodetic surveying of elevation profiles and topography, and modeling/predicting the impact of clearing on water flow dynamics, to administrative and permitting processes, securing funding, contractor procurement, and the actual field work.
There is plenty of work even during the summer holidays. In addition to bureaucracy, field tasks must also be addressed so that the baseline data for project documentation is as accurate as possible. Thanks to our skilled colleagues, Erik and Jakub, and high-quality equipment, we are able to cover the far-from-cheap geodetic work required for our projects.
In the photos, you can see examples of field work at the Vojčianske and Šulianske side arm locations, which we are able to restore thanks to the project 0410-2SC-BIO-PC2-004 Improving the water regime of the Danube river branches.
Thanks to practical restoration measures such as deepening and widening riverbeds and removing obstacles and accumulated sediment, higher discharge rates and flow velocities will be possible in selected sections. In addition to improved water quality and dynamics, many valuable species will benefit – especially native rheophilic (current-loving) fish, surrounding floodplain forests, and wetland species. Beyond nature, anglers, paddlers, tourists, and many others who visit this beautiful Danube Floodplains area will benefit as well.
