River Restoration

21. July 2020 Cara Turett

Harold Fisk

Instructors

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 revitalizing a given river section.

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.

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 revitalizing 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.

Highly recommended as a technical preparation: River Engineering (Course 101-0258-00L, Autumn Semester)