Resumee Preliminary Study Danube and Lower Traun

Information deficits were identified in the subtopics of sediment balance and measure evaluation, which require further investigation for the GE-RM planning process. However, we were also able to clarify important planning framework conditions and become clear about how we will inform people and involve the public in the planning process.

What are the important findings of the preliminary study? What does this mean for the GE-RM?

The preliminary study revealed that the diverse human uses in the study area severely limit the potential for revitalisation. One priority of the GE-RM should thus be to define the remaining areas with potential for flood protection and river development and, if possible, to secure them for the future implementation of measures. We should also define the framework conditions for future priority setting.

A special challenge for the GE-RM Danube – Lower Traun is to delineate the project area so it does not overlap with the GE-RMs of Danube tributaries. We have solved this problem in such a way that the Danube over a length of 122 km – between the hydropower plant Jochenstein and Grein, and the 8.5 km river stretch of the Lower Traun between the weir at the hydropower plant Kleinmünchen and the confluence with the Danube – form the central study area. In order to adequately cover the tributaries for possible ecological measures, the study area was extended to include the inundation area of the 300-year flood plus a 100 m wide buffer strip.

In the GE-RM Danube – Lower Traun, measures in connection with tributaries of the Danube are primarily limited to the estuaries and coordinated with the responsible water districts.

Outlook and Timeplan

The work of the preparation of the GE-RM Danube – Lower Traun was awarded to the company riocom in an open tendering procedure and is planned for the period June 2020 – November 2021. A first coordination meeting took place in June 2020.