Photo
Tulln 2024

The floodplains along the Danube River play a crucial role in maintaining the health of this waterway. Their significance comes from:

1. Flood Control and Risk Reduction:
   • Floodplains act as natural sponges, absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. By doing so, they help prevent downstream flooding in urban and rural areas.
   • When the river swells beyond its banks, floodplains provide a buffer zone, allowing water to spread out gradually. This reduces the impact of sudden floods and protects communities, infrastructure, and agricultural land.
2. Water Purification:
   • As water flows through floodplains, it undergoes natural filtration. Wetlands and marshes within floodplains remove pollutants, sediments, and excess nutrients.
   • This purification process enhances water quality, benefiting both human consumption and aquatic ecosystems.
3. Biodiversity Hotspots:
   • Floodplains support diverse plant and animal species. Their unique habitats include wetlands, meadows, and riparian forests.
   • These areas provide breeding grounds for fish, amphibians, and waterfowl. Many migratory birds rely on floodplains as stopover points during their journeys.