Bybasinforvaltning

Bybasinforvaltning refers to the management and conservation of river floodplains, specifically the areas alongside rivers that are covered by floodwaters during periods of high flow. This type of land management aims to maintain the ecological and hydrological balance of the floodplain, while also considering the needs of surrounding communities.

Floodplains are dynamic systems that shift in response to changes in the river's channel and surrounding landscape. Natural processes, such as sedimentation and erosion, shape the floodplain's morphology over time. Bybasinforvaltning seeks to recognize and work with these natural processes, rather than fighting them.

A key aspect of bybasinforvaltning is the acceptance of floodwaters as a natural and essential part of the river's life cycle. This approach acknowledges that floodplains will inevitably be subject to flooding, and instead of trying to prevent or mitigate this process, aims to prepare for and work with it.

Bybasinforvaltning often involves floodplain restoration, which involves removing obstacles, such as embankments and levees, to allow the river to meander and naturally deposit sediment. This approach also includes the creation of backwaters, wetlands, and other aquatic habitats that provide a range of ecosystem services.

The benefits of bybasinforvaltning include improved water quality, increased biodiversity, and enhanced flood protection. By working with natural processes, this approach can create a more resilient and adaptive floodplain that is better equipped to withstand changing environmental conditions.