Restoration of river banks and opening of the city of Munich towards its river Hydraulic regulation measures introduced in the 19th century resulted in a gradual degradation of the ecology, flow conditions and water quality of the river Isar flowing through Munich. These modifications also increased the risk of flooding and damage to properties located at lower altitudes, as well as limited public access to the river (Arzet and Joven, n.d.; RESTORE, 2013). In response to these issues, the Isar Plan was launched in 1995 as an initiative that integrated the goals of flood-protection, ecological restoration, landscape design and recreational use (Arzet and Joven, n.d.; Reiss-Schmidt, 2014). An 8 km stretch of the river that cuts across the city of Munich has been renaturated (Wulf and Schaufuß, 2013; Arzet and Joven, n.d.), including renaturation of the river banks, the enhancement of access routes and setting the flood defences back from the river bank. The benefits of the project included improved discharge of floodwater/lower risk of flooding, an almost natural river flow, enhanced aesthetics, better access to visitors, improved water quality and a restored habitat that supports local fauna and flora (RESTORE, 2013; City of Munich DUPBR, 2005). Water quality in the River Isar has improved up to bathing water standards thanks to wastewater treatment plants. In addition, flood protection measures have been integrated with an attractive landscape design. As a result, a high number of people visit the River Isar, especially during the summer, as Munich is now a city with an 8 km bathing site. River Isar after restoration. Photo: @ Wasserwirtschaftsamt München |
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