Re-meandering is giving a winding, natural course back to a stream or small river that was straightened (canalised) in the past. The watercourse regains its bends, shallows and gentler banks, as it would run naturally.
Why re-meander?
In the 19th and 20th centuries, many streams were straightened for fast drainage and agriculture. This had drawbacks: water drained away too quickly, nature was impoverished, and in dry spells the stream ran dry. Re-meandering partly reverses this:
- Water storage — a longer, winding course holds water back for longer
- Less drought — water infiltrates the surroundings better
- Biodiversity — variation in flow speed and banks creates more habitat
- Water quality — natural processes clean the water
How is it carried out?
- Digging a new course — with gentle, varied bends
- Gentler banks — nature-friendly instead of steep revetment
- Dead wood and stones — for variation in flow and shelter
- Room for the stream — the valley regains flood zones
Application
Re-meandering is a standard part of stream restoration and climate-adaptation projects run by water authorities. It is often combined with nature-friendly banks and water-storage areas.
Related terms
- Hydraulic engineering
- Revetment
- Climate adaptation
- Water buffer
- Water storage
- Surface water
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