William Ries, a Geospatial Scientist at the Institute of Hydraulic Engineering and River Research (BOKU) in Vienna, Austria, uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to bring clarity to the complexities of river and ecosystem restoration. Originally from New Zealand, William applies his expertise in spatial data and decision-making tools to the DANUBE4all project. Leading the development of an online GIS screening tool, his work is central to identifying effective locations for restoration measures, making this innovative tool accessible to policymakers, researchers, and local communities alike.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play a vital role in river restoration, enabling scientists and stakeholders to map, analyze, and understand complex river dynamics. By integrating diverse datasets—hydrological, ecological, and socio-economic—GIS helps identify areas where restoration measures can achieve the greatest impact. In the DANUBE4all project, GIS serves as a cornerstone for innovative tools, such as a screening platform that highlights the most effective locations for multiple restoration measures.
What is GIS, and why is it important for river restoration?
For those unfamiliar with GIS, it stands for Geographic Information Systems. It is a powerful technology used to capture, analyse, and visualise spatial data. GIS is based on a fundamental law of geography: "Everything is related to everything else, but near things are more related than distant things". This concept allows GIS to combine diverse datasets — such as hydrological, geological, topographical, ecological, climatic, and socio-economic data — into a unified framework to analyse spatial relationships and patterns.
In river restoration, GIS is particularly important for understanding how various natural and human systems interact within a river basin. It enables us to identify key areas for intervention, ensuring that restoration efforts achieve the greatest ecological and social benefits.
How will GIS be used in the DANUBE4all project?
GIS technology provides unique insights into the challenges and opportunities within river systems. For the Danube4all project, GIS allows us to map and analyse the river’s physical, ecological, and social dynamics in detail. This includes identifying where multiple restoration measures can be implemented and provide a range of stakeholder the ability to make informed decisions that align with both environmental and societal goals.
"GIS is based on a fundamental law of geography: 'Everything is related to everything else, but near things are more related than distant things'. This concept allows us to combine diverse datasets into a unified framework, unlocking solutions for river restoration."
One of the greatest strengths of GIS is its ability to integrate and visualize complex data in a way that is easy to interpret. In the context of DANUBE4all, GIS enables us to consider multiple perspectives—such as flood risk reduction, drought risk reduction, groundwater recharge, biodiversity, hydropower, sustainability and navigability for shipping—within a single analysis. For example, GIS can help identify floodplain areas that, when restored, can simultaneously improve biodiversity, reduce flood risks, and enhance local livelihoods. This holistic view ensures that restoration measures deliver maximum benefit across ecological, social, and economic dimensions.
What results can we expect from your GIS work in DANUBE4all?
A main output of the project will be the DANUBE4all GIS screening tool, an online platform designed to make GIS insights accessible to everyone. The portal will act as a decision-support tool, allowing users to interact with maps, view restoration measures, and access data on where multiple measures work together for the most benefit. Whether you’re a government planner, a researcher, or a local resident, the portal will provide valuable information to guide restoration efforts. The screening tool will be online toward the end of the project in December 2027