River Restoration

Abstract

Based on enhanced understanding of river morphodynamics and the ecosystem of riverscapes, the course introduces different river engineering techniques. It copes with the different expectations (space for agriculture, water for energy production, flood protection...) towards riverscapes in modern society.The students work on a project study with the goal of restoring a given river section.

Objective

During this course, the students learn how to - describe the most important relations in river morphodynamics and their impact on the ecosystem of riverscapes - elaborate solutions within river restoration, dealing with the different societal expectations towards riverscapes. - deal with personal, social and technical obstacles in the planning of a river restoration project.

Content

River restoration aims to reestablish near natural processes in riverscapes to increase habitat quality and biodiversity. Based on enhanced understanding of river morphodynamics, the course introduces different engineering techniques with focus on sediment transport processes and flood protection. In addition, the course aims to cope with the different expectations (space for agriculture, water for energy production, flood protection, nature protection...) towards riverscapes in modern society. During the semester, the students work on a project study with the goal of restoring a river section with a certain focus topic. It follows a student-centered apporach, with field trips, a role play and interactive coaching sessions together with river restoration experts from engineering practice.

Resources