More structure for the river: Lafnitz Neudau
As part of the LIFE IP IRIS project, the Lafnitz River in Neudau is becoming a little more natural again: measures to improve the bank structure, improved passability for fish, and new structures in the riverbed are improving the ecological quality of the river. At the same time, flood protection remains an important priority: a new flood protection system is being built in parallel with the IRIS project. In the future, this will ensure that around 500 people and 180 buildings are reliably protected against a so-called 100-year flood, i.e., a flood that statistically occurs every 100 years.
The measures taken in Neudau an der Lafnitz show how the ecological enhancement of our waters and flood protection can go hand in hand.
Between natural meanders and newly emerging habitats, you can experience the transformation of the Lafnitz River near Neudau up close. A walk along the river reveals how a monotonous watercourse is gradually being restored to a living river. Directions with additional tips can be found here.
Overview of the measures on the Lafnitz River near Neudau
As part of the IRIS project, measures are being implemented to improve the ecological quality of the Lafnitz near Neudau. In addition to small-scale actions aimed at enhancing habitats, the project also includes measures reaching into the surrounding river landscape.
The measures not only improve the ecological quality of the Lafnitz, but also make the river a real highlight for the local population and visitors seeking relaxation.
Important for all measures: The planned interventions will not have a negative impact on flood protection—the drainage capacity of the river will remain unchanged.
Measures Lafnitz Neudau Site Plan
Why is the Lafnitz River being revitalized near Neudau?
For a long time, the Lafnitz River near Neudau was heavily regulated, with reinforced banks and little room for natural flow. The once vibrant river became a uniform, monotonous water body. This also led to the disappearance of important habitats for fish and other aquatic life: for a long time, deep pools, deadwood, and shallow bank zones were almost completely absent.
The natural sediment transport also became unbalanced due to heavy river regulation. Erosion from the agriculturally influenced surrounding area, combined with discharge conditions that have been significantly altered by hydropower use, has led to widespread deposits of fine sediments. As a result, the water quality and the ecological balance of the Lafnitz have been adversely affected.
The assessment of the river carried out within IRIS as part of the GE-RM process showed that urgent action is required. The restoration measures aim exactly at this, helping the Lafnitz to become a healthy and lively river once again.
Photocredits: Bernhard Schubert, Martin Wenk, IB Parthl
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