Clean streams for Erlangen: maintenance measures start in January!

Clean streams for Erlangen: maintenance measures start in January!

What's going on in the small bodies of water in beautiful Bavaria? A look at the exciting events: In the coming weeks, specifically in January and February, important maintenance measures on small bodies of water and streams are on the agenda in the city of Erlangen. These measures are not an expression of whim, but rather mark the commitment to maintaining ecological functionality and at the same time ensure a regulated water flow, especially in times of flooding. Erlangen.de reports that a total of various third-order bodies of water are being processed.

The bodies of water affected include the Adergraben, the Bachgraben and the Heuschlaggraben. As part of their responsibility, city employees are authorized to temporarily enter properties and use them for the measures. This is all done in accordance with Section 41 of the Water Resources Act. This is significant because, despite the inconspicuous appearance of these small bodies of water, their care plays a major role in flood protection and also for biodiversity in our region.

Mandatory task for the communities

But this cannot be left to the city of Erlangen alone. The administration of these small bodies of water, of which Bavaria has a total of around 92,000 kilometers, is a mandatory task for all municipalities, cities and water and soil associations. According to the Bavarian Water Act (BayWG), municipalities are responsible for this, which has far-reaching consequences, as small bodies of water often act as habitats for animals and plants and fulfill important ecological functions. The Bavarian Environmental Agency LFU Bavaria highlights that support from water neighborhoods and local water management authorities is essential.

Committed citizens and associations can also contribute to water conservation through sponsorships. These sponsorships often include much more than just care: they are also an opportunity to observe biodiversity and provide a platform for public relations work. The initiation of partnerships and the establishment of water neighborhoods, which were launched in 2002, show how valuable the exchange of knowledge and experiences is for the care of our waters.

An appeal for flood protection

Why is this all so important? Small bodies of water are essential for flood protection, and at the same time are crucial as habitats for numerous species. By preserving them, we actively contribute to ensuring the required “good status” of the waters and observing the requirements of the European Water Framework Directive (EU WFD). It is therefore not surprising that over two thirds of the rivers in Bavaria are slightly contaminated with organically degradable substances.

Public sewage treatment plants have become widespread, with around 95 percent of the population using them, which contributes to general water quality. However, it remains to be seen that many streams and rivers have been developed in ways that are unnatural, which affects the habitat of many species. For this reason, environmental and management objectives are necessary to ensure sustainable development.

Overall, it shows that small bodies of water are much more than just background watercourses. They are an important part of our ecosystem that needs to be cared for with commitment. The upcoming measures in Erlangen give us the opportunity to do our part and actively support our living space.