Upper Danube Austria
Austria’s Supersite „Upper Danube Austria“ (UDA) represents the freshwater spectrum in DANUBIUS-RI, covering alpine headwaters to the Upper Danube and its floodplains. It provides extensive long-term datasets and a multidisciplinary approach to aquatic ecosystem research, focusing on:
- Water quality and sediments,
- Biodiversity and ecosystem functions,
- Climate change impacts and extreme events.
The Austrian Supersite consists of two key research areas:
- Danube River east of Vienna (Donau-Auen-Nationalpark)
- Ybbs River catchment: a Danube tributary in the Mostviertel region
Consortium partners have already studied both areas for a long time-period and long-term data and comprehensive study results exist. These form the basis for further joint research initiatives in the two geographic areas that will lead to an improved scientific understanding of structures and processes in the studied river and floodplain systems and provide the basis for the international cooperation within DANUBIUS-RI, highlighting the critical role of upstream river networks.
Added Value
The Supersite contributes to Austrian research by:
- Enhancing knowledge exchange and stakeholder engagement.
- Supporting integrated river basin management.
- Providing access to advanced research infrastructure and European partnerships.
- Strengthening Austria’s role in international River-Sea research.
