Many rivers worldwide, and specifically in densely populated countries such as Switzerland, have been confined for engineering purposes and consequently exhibit morphological and ecological degradation. The revised Swiss Water Protection Act demands the restoration of 4,000 eco-morphologically impaired river kilometers by 2090. To contribute to this effort, it is crucial to investigate the physical and ecological interactions for habitat creation in fluvial systems. The use of wood placements as an example of nature-based solutions for habitat creation has increased significantly in recent years. However, there is a lack of planning tools for the design of these measures, for example, to quantify the wake flow or footprint of suspended particle deposition to create targeted habitats.
This talk explores the influence of wood placements, such as engineered logjams, on river restoration efforts, focusing on their dual role in sediment management and microplastic deposition. We will discuss how different placements of wood affect flow dynamics, leading to beneficial sediment declogging, which restores fish habitats, as well as varying patterns of microplastic accumulation. By examining the effects of wood on both organic and inorganic matter, this presentation provides insights into optimizing river restoration practices to enhance ecological health while mitigating pollution.
11 bd Marie Pierre Curie
86360 CHASSENEUIL DU POITOU
