Publication

Optimizing Morphological Design for Ecological Restoration and Flood Resilience: A Case Study of The Gérine River, Switzerland

Giovanni De Cesare
2025

Abstract

The Gérine River restoration project aims to enhance its ecological functions and flood resilience by widening canalized sections. A two-dimensional numerical model using BASEMENT software was developed to simulate two design variations, each incorporating different widened channel layouts to encourage morphological development. The selected variant was further analysed for sensitivity to extreme flood events and varying sediment parameters. The simulations provided insights into preferential flow channels, erosion, and deposition areas, which are crucial for optimizing excavation work. The mass balance showed a net erosion pattern, consistent with similar projects in the region. These findings guide the restoration strategy while ensuring adequate flood protection even in case of extreme events.

Official source

https://infoscience.epfl.ch/entities/publication/08859b33-7033-43ed-ab71-dbe9e2b919c4

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Giovanni De Cesare
2025

Abstract

Official source

https://infoscience.epfl.ch/entities/publication/08859b33-7033-43ed-ab71-dbe9e2b919c4

About this result

Related concepts (32)

Restoration ecology

Restoration ecology is the scientific study supporting the practice of ecological restoration, which is the practice of renewing and restoring degraded, damaged, or destroyed ecosystems and habitats in the environment by active human interruption and action. Ecological restoration can reverse biodiversity loss, combat climate change and support local and global economies.

Ecological resilience

In ecology, resilience is the capacity of an ecosystem to respond to a perturbation or disturbance by resisting damage and recovering quickly. Such perturbations and disturbances can include stochastic events such as fires, flooding, windstorms, insect population explosions, and human activities such as deforestation, fracking of the ground for oil extraction, pesticide sprayed in soil, and the introduction of exotic plant or animal species.

Sediment transport

Sediment transport is the movement of solid particles (sediment), typically due to a combination of gravity acting on the sediment, and the movement of the fluid in which the sediment is entrained. Sediment transport occurs in natural systems where the particles are clastic rocks (sand, gravel, boulders, etc.), mud, or clay; the fluid is air, water, or ice; and the force of gravity acts to move the particles along the sloping surface on which they are resting.

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Optimizing Morphological Design for Ecological Restoration and Flood Resilience: A Case Study of The Gérine River, Switzerland

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