Tool risk reduction measures

100 RISK REDUCTION MEASURES

Please note:

This catalogue contains 100 measures that can contribute to the mitigation of heavy rain risks. These measures are very diverse: they range from structural to non-structural measures and from small, easy-to-implement solutions to comprehensive conceptual approaches.

The catalogue was compiled from existing catalogues from all RAINMAN partner countries as well as from knowledge and experiences made in the project without claiming universal coverage and without having expert knowledge in each of the covered business areas. Sources for further information and good practice examples are provided for a large number of the included measures.

Use the selection feature to find measures that are applicable in the field of action that you are dealing with or search for key words you are looking for.

Please consider that heavy rain risk reduction measures work best, when they are strategically applied and cleverly combined under consideration of the local conditions. Go back to RISK REDUCTION MEASURES for further guidance.

Conversion of arable land into grassland/ deciduous forest or short rotation plantations-image
Conversion of arable land into grassland/ deciduous forest or short rotation plantations main image

Conversion of arable land into grassland/ deciduous forest or short rotation plantations

  • Description
  • Fields of action
  • Synergies
  • Good practice examples
  • References

Heavy rain risk can significantly be reduced by converting farmland into grassland/deciduous forests or short rotation plantations. The measure increases the surface roughness constantly (effect: reduction of flow velocities) and decreases soil erosion (effect: reduction of mud deposition). The measure is well-suited for steep slopes with light soils, for runoff-pathways, for fields prone to flooding, and for drained areas near water courses.

Fields of action Farmland,Watercourses
Additionally to flood risk reduction by slowing and storing surface runoff, the measure has medium or high possible benefits for the following biophysical impacts and ecosystem services: Increase evapotranspiration Increase infiltration and/or groundwater recharge; Reduce pollutant sources; Intercept pollution pathways; Reduce erosion and/or sediment delivery; Create terrestrial habitats; Reduce peak temperature; Absorb and/or retain CO2; Water storage; Natural biomass production; Biodiversity preservation; Climate change adaptation and mitigation; Filtration of pollutants; Recreational opportunities; Aesthetic/cultural value; Increase soil water retention; Improve soils; Create aquatic habitat

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Saxon State Office for Environment, Agriculture and Geology