Storms keep Tyrol debris basins constantly full

Repeated storms have filled debris retention basins across Tyrol, leaving the state’s torrent and avalanche control service with ongoing excavation work, ORF reported. More than 250,000 cubic metres of debris have been removed so far this year, equivalent to about 30,000 truckloads, said Daniel Kurz of the service.

The basins protect villages, roads and homes from mudslides, but must be cleared regularly to remain effective. The highest concentration is in the Pitztal valley, in the Imst and Landeck districts, where there are about 130 basins.

In the municipality of St. Leonhard im Pitztal, recent storms caused significant damage. Fourteen basins urgently need to be cleared. The Wassertalbach stream poses a particular challenge because one of its basins can hold between 60,000 and 80,000 cubic metres and is now completely full, according to the head of the Upper Inn Valley regional engineering unit.

Disposing of the material is also difficult in the narrow valleys. Officials are looking for nearby solutions because transporting it over longer distances would be too expensive. Some of the debris is being used for additional protective measures, including a large rockfall barrier in the Weißwald hamlet of St. Leonhard. Other material is being used for agricultural land improvement, while a significant amount still has to be taken to landfill at considerable cost.

Storms have become more frequent in recent years. Basins that once had to be cleared only every 20 to 30 years have needed excavation five times in the past decade at the Wassertalbach, according to the Tyrol torrent and avalanche control service. After each storm, the basins must be cleared again.