Connected habitats - more biodiversity

The aim of the programme "Rhine 2040" is a healthy ecosystem of the Rhine with a high species diversity and which is passable for animals. To this end, four sub-goals were formulated, which are to be implemented, among other things, through the measures listed below.

1. Restore ecological river continuity

Finalise the fish way at Rhinau in 2024
Finalise the fish way at Marckolsheim in 2026
Complete the fish way for the complex Vogelgrün area as soon as possible - in accordance with the legislation
Make the High Rhine between Basel and Schaffhausen passable by 2030
Remove or modify 300 migration barriers in the catchment area by 2030
Update recommendations for fish bypass and fish protection until 2024

2. Restore the network of biotopes along the Rhine

Restore an additional 200 km² of floodplain areas - flood prevention also benefits from this
Reconnect a further 100 oxbow lakes and tributaries
Ecologically upgrade 400 km of riverbanks

3. Improve sediment balance

Create an inventory of sediment quantity and dynamics
Identify deficits and formulate conditions required for a balanced sediment regime
If necessary, develop a sediment management plan for the Rhine

4. Stabilise temperature and oxygen conditions

Observe and document water temperatures
Inventory anthropogenic thermal input every 6 years
If necessary, develop a recommendation for action with measures across national and regional borders