E
cosystem
servicesdelivered
Provisioning
Regulation & maintenance
Cultural
Abiotic
C
ontribution
topolicyobjectives
Water Framework Directive
Floods Directive
Birds & Habitats Directive
2020 Biodiversity Strategy
P
otential
biophysicaleffects
Runoff
Reducing pollution
Soil conservation
Habitat
Climate Change
High
Low
Medium
None
Expanding the functional area of the river contributes to slowing runoff on the banks and to increasing runoff storage capacity. Increased stream length and reconnection of old
meanders increases the storage capacity of the river itself and contributes to slowing down flow. That in turn can contribute significantly to
flood risk reduction
. Re-meandering
also has the potential to enhance infiltration and groundwater recharge.
Re-meandering, especially when implemented along with buffer zones, wetlands and afforestation, can provide significant contributions to
pollution reduction.
Changes in the
river profile and decreased water velocities contribute to reduced erosion and increased sedimentation.
River re-meandering provides
habitat
for a range of flora and fauna such as aquatic plants, otter, salmon, insects, birds, fish, macroinvertebrates
, phytoplankton and kingfishers.
Hydraulic annexes, quiet water areas and wet lowlands contribute to enhancing the resilience of ecological communities. Reduced erosion also has a positive impact on aquatic
and riparian biodiversity. Potential vegetation development can provide shade and reduce water temperatures, therefore enabling native species to adapt to climate change and
compete with non-native species.
River re-meandering contributes to improving the status of biology, physico-chemical and hydromorphology quality elements, and to preventing surface water status deterioration.
It also provides recreational opportunities and
aesthetic value
.
