Anthropogene Eingriffe und klimatische Veränderungen als Einflussfaktoren auf die Dynamik von Auenökosystemen – Eine Fallstudie am Augebiet Marchegg

This thesis, entitled “Anthropogenic Interventions and Climate Change as Influencing Factors  on the Dynamic of Floodplain Ecosystems – A Case Study of the Marchegg Floodplain”,  analyses the effects of human river regulations and climatic changes on the water balance and  ecological functioning of a river floodplain.  
The main objective of the study is to analyse the interactions between groundwater levels, soil  moisture and soil temperature, as well as the influence of an installed dike system and extreme weather events. The analysis is based on hydrological data collected in 2024 and the first half of 2025. The data were statistically evaluated and examined for correlations. The results show stronger groundwater fluctuations in the area that is directly connected to the river compared to the more stable conditions in the hinterland. Soil moisture follows groundwater dynamics with a delay and areas that are lower in the terrain respond more sensible to flood events. In addition, a relationship between rising soil temperature and decreasing soil moisture is visible during dry summer periods.  
The thesis is mainly aimed at professionals in landscape planning and nature conservation. It provides insights into the dynamics of regulated floodplain ecosystems, highlighting influencing factors and discussing the resilience of the area. Furthermore, the study contributes to a better understanding of regulated floodplain systems and presents measures to strengthen their resilience.