Drought keeps pressure on Lower Austria’s fish stocks

Record heat and low water levels have damaged fish stocks in Lower Austria, and the situation remains tense despite cooler temperatures and rain, ORF reported, citing Gregor Gravogl, managing director of the Lower Austria Fisheries Association.

Drought has also affected local waters. The low water contained little oxygen during the heat, although oxygen levels have now improved with the cooler temperatures. Water volumes remain too low, Gravogl said, adding that considerably more water was needed to offset the effects of the summer.

The fisheries association said at least 14 days of light rain were needed to ease the situation. Heavy rain would not be absorbed by the soil, it said. For the coming months, the association is hoping for substantial precipitation and a winter with heavy snowfall.

If that does not happen, the consequences could be severe, Gravogl said. Falling groundwater levels would affect water security and the irrigation of fields, he said, adding that the problem would concern everyone, not just the fishing sector.

Fish populations would shrink as a result of the water shortage. The decline would also affect young fish stocks, Gravogl said. If fish do not reproduce, fewer fish will emerge over time, leading to a significant impact on overall stocks.

River restoration offers hope

Ecological measures such as river restoration projects offer some hope, Gravogl said. Rivers need space, and without it they are more vulnerable to flooding and drought. Restoring riverbanks, giving rivers more room and providing shade could help preserve their habitats, he said.

The Lower Austria Fisheries Association has made one million euros available for support measures this year and plans to provide the same amount next year.