Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential of restoration of a stream section. The starting point of the multiple-step assessment process was a historical analysis, which resulted in the definition of different sections within the study area, providing a base for the further restoration goals. The assessment of the current conditions was elaborated particularly to determine those factors, which could limit restoration. These assessments cover the land use pattern, furthermore the analysis of vegetation and habitat patches. As a result of the historical analysis, it has been found that the stream side habitat patches have decreased significantly despite the constant space available. This change was not caused by the increased area of the settlement, but rather by the higher dominancy of arable forms of land use. The greatest share of wet and mesic meadows and agricultural habitats in the study areas, covering 57.5% of the total area, indicates significant anthropogenic effects. Consequently it can be stated that the reference conditions are not the only determining factors of the restoration possibilities. Restoration style and intensity have been defined on basis of all assessed factors.
Highlights
Streams in Central-Europe are affected by several environmental threats, their role – as a landscape pattern-determining feature – has decreased, their functions have changed (Báthoryné Nagy 2007; Mecser et al 2009)
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential for restoring a stream section, combining a historical analysis, and the assessment of the current ecological state and landscape pattern, through a case study (Váli-stream, Hungray)
According to the registration of the local water authority, the Váli-stream can be classified into three different sections; the entire study area belongs to the upper course section, between the 3 and 53 km points of the river
Summary
Streams in Central-Europe are affected by several environmental threats, their role – as a landscape pattern-determining feature – has decreased, their functions have changed (Báthoryné Nagy 2007; Mecser et al 2009). In Hungary, according to the National River Basin Management Plan (KvVM 2009b), in lowland areas 95%, in upland areas 91% of the lower order streams are regulated. The improper management contributes to the adverse effects of stream regulation as well. Among the environmental and ecological problems of lower order streams, many are related to the improper practice of urban water management, in numerous cases, streams are fed by polluted stormwaters and treated/untreated wastewaters. The most prevalent water quality issue concerning Hungarian surface waters is external organic matter and nutrient loading, beside lakes usually lower order streams are seriously affected, too (KvVM 2009a). Insufficient data can be regarded as a general problem, as far as quality assessment is concerned
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
