Author(s): Susanne Scherbaum; Yannic Fuchs; Josef Schneider

Linked Author(s): Susanne Scherbaum, Yannic Fuchs, Josef Schneider

Keywords: Aquatic habitats; Boat-induced waves; Ecosystem management; Wave attenuation; Wave protection fences

Abstract: Effective lake ecosystem management requires minimizing disturbances to sensitive habitats, particularly from waves generated by boating. This study evaluates wave attenuation at two shoreline sections in Lake Wörthersee, Austria: a section protected by a wave fence at Forstsee, and a natural bay at Maria Wörth. Wave dynamics were monitored by buoy systems, and recorded wave signals were filtered to separate wind- and boat-induced waves. Energy flux calculations revealed that the fence reduced wind-induced wave energy by 93%, whereas the bay achieved about 50% reduction . Boat-induced wave energy was similarly attenuated at both sites by 86% and 88%. Spectrogram analysis confirmed that boat waves remain detectable but significantly dampened behind the fence. The findings suggest that the strong attenuation of wind waves behind wave fences can substantially limit natural water exchange, potentially affecting aquatic habitats. In contrast, natural bays allow partial penetration of wind waves, maintaining water e xchange and thus providing more favourable conditions for ecosystem health.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/iahr.proc.ise2026.abs.111

Year: 2026