Lobau under water stress: care for biodiversity is urgently needed!

Lobau under water stress: care for biodiversity is urgently needed!

The Lobau is in the spotlight

On September 24, 2025, the fifth lecture and information evening of the “Esslinger for the Lobau” initiative took place in the parish hall of the Essling Church in Vienna Donaustadt. Under the title “Lobau – Hidden Diversity in the Floodplain Forest,” Professor Christian Griebler from the University of Vienna and zoologist Helmut Sattmann presented a comprehensive picture of this unique natural landscape. Around 110 interested visitors listened to the presentations, which also raised critical questions about the future development of Lobau.

Water is the elixir of life

A central topic of the evening was the role of groundwater, which is not only essential for the drinking water supply but also supports the ecological balance in the Lobau. Professor Griebler emphasized the formation and dynamics of groundwater as well as the exchange between groundwater and surface water. Around 800 plant and 11,000 animal species are native to the Lobau, many of which are rare and rely on different habitats. Particularly critical condition: without sufficient water, the unique biodiversity of the Lobau could be seriously endangered.

Nature Conservation Associationemphasizes that floodplains like the Lobau are essential for flood protection and water retention. Current problems, such as the drying out of certain areas of the Lobau, are in focus. Causes such as climate change and human interventions such as river regulations are leading to a worrying decline in groundwater levels. The loss of valuable water areas and the resulting changes in biodiversity call the future of this region into question. Water quality and water enrichment must be viewed in an ecological context.

Biodiversity in danger

What does this lowering of the water level mean for biodiversity? In his lecture, Helmut Sattmann presented, among other things, the relationship between river mussels and fish such as the bitterling. These dependencies are crucial for understanding the ecological interrelationships in the riparian forest. However, the loss of habitats and falling water levels endanger these complex systems and thus the entire biodiversity of the Lobau.

The numbers are alarming. The WWF reports that Austria's biodiversity is at risk. Over 80% of the FFH protected assets are not in good condition; Destruction of habitats and environmental pollution are often the causes of the decline in native animal and plant species. Increasing development and use of wetlands are contributing to this dramatic decline.

During the event, participants also expressed concerns about the planned construction of the Lobau highway. Many would be against the project because they fear the negative impact on the local ecosystem. A hypothetical vote would have resulted in a clear NO, underscoring the importance of the comprehensive discussion. The next highway-themed lecture will take place on November 10, and organizers hope such events will further raise awareness of the value of the Lobau and its unique biodiversity.

The way into the future

Given the challenges posed by climate change and human intervention, experts are urgently calling for environmentally sound solutions. The Nature Conservation Association is committed to a sustainable strategy for the protection and renaturation of the Lobau. Factors such as restoring water flows and optimizing water management are crucial to offering this species-rich region a perspective.

In summary, it can be said: The Lobau is more than just a natural area. It is an important habitat that must be protected. It is up to all of us to raise awareness and actively work on the sustainable development of our natural resources.