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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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