Project R-7141

Long Term Monitoring of the meandering of the moved Witte Nete in Dessel 2016-2021 (Research)

The objective of this long-term monitoring is to demonstrate the continued effectiveness of this artificial remeandering, a measure that was imposed through an EIA. Post-evaluative follow-up research programs for fauna and flora are not common in Flanders and Europe. However, they are highly desirable to provide an answer to whether, for example mitigation measures have the desired effect or if additional interventions and adjustments to the measures already taken are necessary. This monitoring should make clear whether the observed recovery of the macroinvertebrates and fish community isn't temporary but a permanent phenomenon in the (semi-) natural functioning of the watercourse. The importance of river management processes such as erosion and sedimentation should be explored, both to habitat diversity and biodiversity. Additional long-term monitoring can also provide support on how to manage this problem more efficiently in the future.

01 February 2016 - 30 November 2022