Project 5.03: Impacts of climate change on microbial water quality and their implications for dedged material managment in inland waterways

Dr Simone Böer, BfG,
Tel. +49 (0) 261/1306-5291, boeer@bafg.de

Dr Georg Reifferscheid (Projektleiter), BfG,
Department G3 – Bio-Chemistry and Ecotoxikology
Tel. +49 (0) 261/1306-5176, reifferscheid@bafg.de

Objectives

The objective of project 5.03 is to assess and evaluate the impacts of climate change on the microbial water quality of German inland waterways. It will be analysed to what extent hygienically-relevant or pathogenic bacterial species may occur in the free water phase or bound to surfaces or particles (biofilms, sediments, dredging material), and how they are distributed between them. Additionally, we will investigate how the potential consequences of climate change, such as higher average temperatures, regional increases in extreme weather events as well as greater flow condition amplitudes, may influence microbial water quality. One of the main aspects to be considered is, whether changes in these factors may support the survival and/or growth of pathogens, and promote their input into the water bodies. Against the background of these studies, sections of selected federal waterways (Rhine, Main and Elbe) will be identified, for which a potential deterioration of the microbial water quality can be expected; the resulting risk potential of bacterial infections and intoxications will be further evaluated. The results will form a basis for issuing recommendations for action in order to ensure the hygienically safe handling of water, sediments and dredged material in the context of necessary upgrading and maintenance works on waterways. First adaptation proposals for the safe utilisation of the waterways in terms of transport, drinking, industrial water supply as well as for recreational activities will be developed under the aspect of climate-induced changes in microbial water quality will be drawn up.