Ecomorphological consequences of residual flow after suspending the artificial flood program at the Spöl river

Michael Döring (ZHAW), Virginia Ruiz (Uni Bern), Celine Spitzli (ZHAW)

Situazione iniziale

The regulation of river flow has significantly altered hydromorphological dynamics, often leading to ecosystem degradation. The Spöl River in the Swiss National Park (SNP) exemplifies these changes due to decades of regulation by the Punt dal Gall dam. In 2000, a controlled flood program was introduced to mitigate habitat degradation but was suspended in 2016 due to PCB contamination.

Obiettivo

This study aims to assess the river’s current hydromorphological and ecological status after five years without artificial flooding. Using ecomorphological surveys, drone imagery, and sediment analyses, the research will evaluate changes in sediment transport, connectivity, and habitat conditions. The findings will contribute to long-term monitoring and inform strategies for ecological restoration, particularly in light of the planned PCB remediation in 2026.