Author(s): Kamila Belka; Michal Brach; Geetika Chauhan; Mariusz Gasior; Szymon Jusik; Krzysztof Karpio; Pawel Konecki; Adam Nadolny; Wlodzimierz Natorf; Przemyslaw Nawrocki; Slawomir Bury; Piotr Parasiewicz

Linked Author(s):

Keywords: Free-flowing rivers; River connectivity; Restoration; Hydromorphology; GIS; Barrier inventory

Abstract: Free-flowing rivers play a critical role in maintaining ecological connectivity, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining ecosystem services, yet their extent in Europe has been drastically reduced by centuries of hydromorphological alteration. In Poland, the lack of a standardized, nationwide inventory of river fragmentation has hindered effective planning and prioritization of restoration actions. This study presents the development of the first Polish database of free-flowing rivers, designed in accordance with the EU-endorsed Guidance on criteria for identifying free-flowing river stretches and aligned with the objectives of the Nature Restoration Regulation and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The database integrates hydrological, hydromorphological, and infrastructural datasets, including barrier inventories, river typology, slope, catchment characteristics, and fish macrohabitats. Statistical modelling addresses data gaps in barrier distribution and passability, guiding targeted field verification . The resulting assessment framework will support prioritization of restoration measures and enable multi-scale evaluation of river continuity. A web- based interface will facilitate stakeholder engagement and decision-making. This work provides a fundamental tool for evidence-based river management in Poland and contributes to broader European efforts to restore free-flowing rivers and enhance freshwater ecological integrity.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/iahr.proc.ise2026.abs.241

Year: 2026