Incorporation of Hydronomic Works in Natural Landscape, Case Study in Aeropotamos Torrent, Greece

Abstract

Hydronomic works (rivers and streams arrangement works) have as target the dissuasion of control of torrent effects (disintegration, erosion, sliding, crumbling etc), the stabilization of stream sides and the providing of flood protection. Additionally hydronomic works in downgraded hydrologic basins and river sides, except of the provided protection, contribute to the formation and evolution of along stream environments. For these reasons, hydronomic works, by nature, constitute significant protection-environmental works. This leads to their exclusion from the need for approval of environmental permissions. Hydronomic works and river restoration techniques are referred to a large variety of ecological, physical, spatial and management measures and practices. These are aimed at restoring the natural state and functioning of a natural system in support of biodiversity, recreation, flood safety and landscape development. By restoring natural conditions, hydronomic works improves the resilience of the river systems and provides the framework for the sustainable multifunctional use of estuaries, rivers and streams. Hydronomic works are an integral part of sustainable water management and is in direct support of the aims of the Water Framework Directive, and national and regional water management policies. In the present study the level of incorporation and the contribution of hydronomic works in natural environment is evaluated for the case of Greece.