The “Wasserkontroversen” dialog forum, a key event in the ongoing discussion of water-related issues, took place on November 8, 2024, under the theme “Water Retention in Landscape – Feasibility, Environmental Benefits, and Legal Implications”.
The event, organized by Prof. Dr. Thomas Köllner from the Bayreuther Center of Ecology and Environmental Research (BayCEER), in cooperation with Prof. Dr. Eva Lohse from the Research Center for Sustainable Development Law (FoRNE) and Dr. Birgit Thies from WWF Germany, focused on the challenges and opportunities of decentralized water retention measures in the face of climate change.
Since its inception in 2021, the “Wasserkontroversen” forum has become an essential platform for experts to discuss pressing water issues, particularly in southern Germany. Topics of past forums have included the impacts of low water levels in streams and rivers, the balance between protection and use of water resources, and drinking water protection amidst the changing climate. This year’s discussions were centered around the practical implementation of water retention strategies in landscapes, highlighting their feasibility, ecological advantages, and the legal frameworks required to support these efforts.
One of the key contributions to the forum was by Professor Markus Disse, Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM – RETOUCH NEUXS Project Coordinator).
Prof. Disse delivered a presentation titled “Bewertung von Maßnahmen eines klimaresilienten Landschaftswasserhaushaltes durch hydrologische Modellierung” (Assessment of Measures for a Climate-Resilient Landscape Water Balance through Hydrological Modeling).
His presentation showcased how hydrological modeling can be used to assess and design measures that contribute to a climate-resilient water balance in landscapes, emphasizing the importance of integrated scientific approaches for sustainable water management.
The RETOUCH NEUXS project was also highlighted at the event, drawing attention to its pivotal role in addressing water challenges, particularly in the Upper Main region. RETOUCH NEUXS focuses on innovative solutions for water retention and climate resilience, aligning with the forum’s themes of decentralized water management and ecological restoration. The project’s case study in the Upper Main area was presented as an example of how regional solutions can be applied and scaled to address local water issues while contributing to broader climate adaptation strategies.
The forum not only offered valuable insights into the challenges faced by the Upper Franconia region but also fostered new connections with stakeholders involved in water management and climate resilience.
Our Vision & Mission
As a key player in both the scientific and practical aspects of water management, Prof. Markus Disse’s participation at the Wasserkontroversen IV forum reinforces the importance of collaborative approaches and cutting-edge research in solving contemporary water challenges. The RETOUCH NEUXS project continues to be at the forefront of these efforts, promoting sustainable solutions that enhance the resilience of landscapes to the impacts of climate change.
