Flussstrecke

Flussstrecke is a term used in hydrology, river engineering, and navigation to denote a defined section of a river between two boundary points. The concept is functional rather than purely geographical; a Flussstrecke is selected for analysis, management, or operation and may correspond to a stretch between gauge stations, confluences, locks, dams, or administrative borders. It should not be conflated with the broader Flusslauf (the river’s course) or with the riverbed itself.

Boundaries and length: Boundaries are defined by natural or artificial features or administrative limits, and the length is measured along the river axis. Because rivers wander and change course over time, the precise length of a Flussstrecke can vary with measurement method or with long‑term morphological changes.

Applications: In hydrology and flood management, Flussstrecken are used for modeling discharge, sediment transport, and flood risk. In environmental planning, they support ecological monitoring and water quality assessment. In navigation and infrastructure planning, they define sections for depth, width, or lock operations, and for the designation of safe or restricted reaches.

Data: Each Flussstrecke has characteristic properties such as flow rate, depth, cross-section, width, temperature, and water quality. Monitoring along a Flussstrecke supports trend analysis and regulatory reporting.

See also: Flussabschnitt, Flusslauf, Binnenwasserstraße.