Identification of flood-generating forest areas and forestry measures for water retention

Abstract

In addition to flood disasters along major rivers, damage caused by the flooding of smaller tributaries is also of considerable significance. Within the European WaReLa-project, water retention measures are being investigated that have positive effects within small watersheds. Geographic information system-based assessment keys were developed on the basis of digital forest site classifications to evaluate the water retention functions that depend on landscape features and land-use. The keys lead to digital maps identifying sensitive forest sites and linear structures. The maps provide a spatial distribution of runoff types and intensities. Forest inventory data are the basis for forestry measures to support water retention. The assessment keys and a tool box of forestry water retention measures are part of a Decision Support System (DSS) that is under development within the WaReLa-project. The DSS includes an evaluation tool for the economic consequences and the eco-efficiency of flood-precaution measures.