DPS 2: Reconnected floodplain of the Upper Danube [DE]

Location: Bavaria, Germany (Danube River floodplain)
Challenge: River regulation negatively impacted floodplain ecology.
Project (2005-2011):
- Restored water flow with bypass channel (Ottheinrichbach).
- Enabled ecological floods through weir modification.
- Lowered groundwater levels with drainage ditch.
Benefits:
- Improved vegetation diversity.
- Enhanced habitat for fish and wildlife.
- More natural water level fluctuations.

Challenges:
- Not fully self-sustaining due to upstream regulation.
- Limited water fluctuations in some areas.
Recommendations:
- Optimize water flow for floodplain plants.
- Increase water level variations, especially in drier areas.
- Introduce controlled disturbances to mimic natural processes.
- Conduct targeted planting and stocking of floodplain species.
- Develop new fish habitats and consider stocking with suitable species.
Overall: Project successfully restored floodplain functions, with ongoing efforts to improve ecological health.