キルヒベルクアムワグラムの天然記念物・トップ18

Very idyllic place

At approximately 12.5 kilometers, the Altenwörth Fish Bypass is the longest of its kind in Austria and was built between 2019 and 2022 as part of the LIFE Network Danube Plus project. It allows fish such as huchen, schied, and zingel to bypass the Altenwörth Danube power plant and provides a continuous connection to the tributaries, the Kamp and Krems. The near-naturally designed bypass stream, with shallow water zones, gravel banks, and deadwood, also creates new habitats for numerous animal and plant species. The facility is also of interest to cyclists: Along the Danube and its adjacent waterways, natural paths offer views of renaturalized landscapes, small bays, and ecologically valuable rest areas. It is a successful example of how flood protection, energy use, and biodiversity can be reconciled.

One of Austria's longest fish bypasses was created between Altenwörth and Greifenstein as part of the "LIFE Network Danube Plus" project. The approximately 12.5-kilometer-long, near-naturally designed bypass stream allows fish such as huchen, zebrafish, and schied to migrate freely along the Danube and connects important habitats in the tributaries of the Kamp and Krems. Between 2019 and 2022, approximately 34 hectares of new aquatic areas were created, featuring shallow water zones, gravel banks, and deadwood areas – also for kingfishers, otters, and other protected species. In addition to its ecological benefits, the area is now also attractive to recreational travelers: Along the waterway corridor, natural banks, small bays, and viewpoints invite visitors to linger – a successful example of the combination of nature conservation, water development, and sustainable tourism.

a 12.5 km long fish pass 🐟

Great construction that also looks great when driving past.

The Altenwörth fish bypass is an important ecological measure at the Altenwörth Danube power plant in Lower Austria. It was implemented as part of the LIFE Network Danube Plus project and, with a length of 12.5 kilometers, is recognized as the longest of its kind in Lower Austria.

The LIFE+ Traisen project was one of the largest renaturation projects in Austria and was implemented between 2009 and 2019. The aim was to transform the previously straightened lower reaches of the Traisen into a near-natural floodplain landscape. This resulted in a new, meandering river course with diverse bank structures and wetlands over a length of around 9.4 kilometers. This created valuable habitats for numerous animal and plant species, including endangered species. The implementation required extensive earthworks, in which large quantities of gravel and sediment were moved to create still waters and shallow water zones. The cost of the project was around 30 million euros and was financed by various public and private partners.

The areas along this section combine flood protection with nature conservation and offer the opportunity for a tour along the Traisen River. The renaturalization and the creation of flood protection zones contribute to promoting biodiversity and preserving the habitat for animals and plants. At the same time, flood safety for the city is improved by creating floodplains. The bridge and paths allow for active use of the area without unduly impacting nature.