Rivers and streams are the lifelines of the landscape. They allow natural interchange between biotopes over large distances. Lakes and smaller standing waters such as pools, ponds and backwaters are home to many species: particularly fish, birds and amphibians such as frogs, toads and newts.
Many animals are tied to water for reproduction but move within a larger area in the adult stage. This applies for example to the dragonfly, whose larvae develop in the water, while the adults often travel far from the waters to hunt. The importance of the smallest water body can’t be underestimated. Waters contribute to the biodiversity of the landscape. They define and enrich the landscape and increase its recreational value.
Water courses are utilized intensively; water is extracted by industrial companies and power plants and purged waste water is discharged. The Erftverband strives for a balance between the diverse economic and ecological utilities of water courses in the Erft River catchment area. This requires measures aimed at sustainably reshaping the rivers and streams, as well as flood control and stream maintenance.
