NEWS

New guideline for dealing with high groundwater levels

Figure 2 High groundwater levels

High groundwater levels - an underestimated danger: In recent decades, this issue has become increasingly known in many regions of Germany. In many cases, considerable damage was caused by waterlogging and/or uplift of buildings because the structures were inadequately protected against pressing groundwater. This was mainly caused by weather-related influences, in particular flood events, sealing of public and private sewer networks, and declines in private and industrial groundwater pumping. High groundwater levels carry the risk that they often occur unexpectedly and with a time lag and are of longer duration. Awareness of the problem of these invisible interrelationships was often lacking.

Following a workshop in November 2016, the working group "Dealing with High Groundwater Levels" within the Association of Engineers for Water Management, Waste Management and Cultural Engineering (BWK) therefore came together and developed a practical guide to support authorities in decision-making and tenders, to help engineering firms in planning and implementation, and to inform those affected about the topic of "High Groundwater Levels".

The technical information "Dealing with high groundwater levels", which is to be published shortly, is the result of a very intensive cooperation of more than 25 experts from universities, research institutions, technical authorities, water management associations, drainage companies and engineering offices. MuP Umwelttechnik GmbH contributed to this as part of the working group.

The technical information is intended to raise awareness of the causes of high groundwater levels. In addition to a basic description of the process, practical examples are used to illustrate measures for preventing high groundwater levels and minimising damage. Furthermore, the determination of the design groundwater level, planning aids and aspects of planning law and communication are addressed.

 

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