MUR - River management of the central (inner) river Mur

The project aimed to maintain, improve and regenerate the characteristic river landscape of the Upper River Mur in the long term, as a prerequisite for maintaining rare and endangered species of fauna and flora. Thus through this project former river features, such as side arm meanders, have been re-connected to the River Mur over a total length of 4.6 km and these provide important new spawning and wintering grounds for endangered fish species, such as the Danube salmon. Habitats for amphibians have been restored by creating new ponds, artificial bank protections have been partially removed on a length of 4.7 km and the hydro power plant at Murau is now fish passable. Some 20.8 ha of alluvial forest have been protected and allochthonous trees were removed on 6.6 ha to foster the development of autochthonous forests. Additionally, river obstacles were removed and the water course is now passable by migratory fish species, which spawn in the upper parts of the brook. An active and successful public awareness campaign included providing boat tours of the works for local landowners and other stakeholders to explain the project activities and gain support for the conservation measures. Other information events included school projects that involved high-ranking national and regional politicians.