RAISE – Research on Alpine sediment processes, morphodynamics and ecosystem behaviour considering extreme events

Abstract

Extreme floods in Austria of the years 2002, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2013 and 2018 demonstrate the vulnerability of mankind against such events. River geometry responds to heavy flooding with massive morphological rearrangements. Houses and infrastructure in the affected areas are thus at risk. Therefore, an improved understanding of sediment transport processes is crucial for the analysis of morphodynamics and thus for flood risk management. Also the success of river restoration projects depends on sediment transport and morphodynamics as boundary conditions, but there is a significant lack of knowledge regarding these processes and the connected ecosystem.