Ecological networks in river rehabilitation scenarios: Rhine-Econet; summary report

The significance of an ecological network of natural areas for a successful nature conservation and rehabilitation strategy of the Lower Rhine between Gorinchem (Netherlands) and Duisburg (Germany) is indicated. A scenario approach is used to illuminate variations in the planning of 10 000 ha of new natural areas, focused on riverine forest, macrophyte marsh and side channels. Each scenario is evaluated by determining its network function for nine characteristic fauna species. The results can serve as a conceptual framework for decisions on the ecological future of the Lower Rhine and probably also for other European rivers