Stakeholder Meeting in Vienna - How can we improve sediment continuity while optimizing ecological conditions

On March 28, 2025, key stakeholders from viadonau, Verbund, BOKU University and the Amt der Oberösterreichischen Landesregierung gathered at the BOKU River Lab to discuss the Pilot Site Aschach.

In this section of the Upper Austrian Danube sediment continuity along impoundments in Upper Austria is interrupted, and sedimentation occurs. A key challenge for ecologically oriented measures is that the water level is not lowered as this could lead to erosion of the structures.

💡 Our aim of the simulations performed in the project is to find measures, that:
🔹 Improve sediment continuity for particles smaller than fine gravel
🔹 Minimize sedimentation at ecological structures
🔹 Prevent erosion of these structures

The solutions identified in our simulations could be scaled up to other impoundments in Upper Austria.

🤝 Collaboration is key: While DanubeSediment_Q2 focuses on modelling and preparation, the Horizon Europe Lighthouse project iNNO SED will implement the restoration measures. This meeting marked an important first step, ensuring close coordination among all stakeholders. More discussions will follow to align efforts and maximize impact!