Masterclasses and workshops – 16.08.2026
1. Flow-3D – Let´s make it more nature like : 3D Numerical Ecohydraulics Modelling
One-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) simulations are commonly used in engineering practice, but their limitations due to simplifications are often overlooked. Nature doesn’t average across cross sections, and aquatic life forms are challenged by three-dimensional (3D) flow situations. Using a 3D simulation tool, engineers and scientists can explore and understand 3D flow fields, optimizing them to provide proper flow conditions for fish and other organisms. In this workshop, you will learn how to easily produce, analyze, and optimize a real-life numerical setup with.
2. Vegetation Dynamics – The triade water-sediment-vegetation : from ecomorphodynamics to bioengineering practice
When observing a watercourse, three key mesoscale abiotic and biotic elements stand out: flowing water, the sediment that forms the riverbed and its morphology, and the vegetation that colonizes bars and banks. The dynamics associated with each element occur on different timescales, and the interactions among related processes shape characteristic river patterns and the ecological habitats they support. This short course explores above- and below-ground vegetation dynamics and their relationships with water and sediment processes (morphodynamics), together forming the emerging field of bio- or ecomorphodynamics. Mathematical models will also be introduced, with an emphasis on the practical application of plant cuttings in modern river bioengineering.
3. Econet – From Theory to River : A Practical Ecohydraulics Workshop for Early-Career Scientists
Especially aimed at early career researchers (ECRs) who want to experience the diversity in ecohydraulics and expand their professional network, this workshop consists of a small theoretical session followed by an excursion to a nearby river reach where participants will get hands-on experience. The topics will cover general concepts on river restoration, and we will dive deeper into hydromorphology, hydraulics, vegetation, aquatic fauna, and water quality, assessing them on a nearby stream. Join us for an exciting afternoon exploring and combining the various perspectives forming the field of ecohydraulics !
4. Masterclass in Soil and Water Bioengineering
Soil and Water Bioengineering is a specific discipline that combines technology and biology in which native plants and plant communities are used as living building material to solve erosion and conservation problems, contributing
- to the regeneration of degraded ecosystems due to natural or anthropic causes,
- to regenerate the dynamics of ecological and geomorphological processes and
- to the recovery of biodiversity.
This course, designed for those interested in applying these techniques in aquatic environments, will analyze the process from design to implementation, taking into account the hydrological context and the hydraulic parameters necessary for proper application. Projects carried out in various ambits, coastal areas, wetlands, and rivers, will be presented and discussed. Temporal issues will be considered as well. Participants are encouraged to bring their own examples.
The course is organized by the European Federation of Soil and Water Bioengineering (EFIB) and the Swiss Association for Soil and Water Bioengineering.
Gatherings – 17.08.2026 & 19.08.2026
- Welcome Apero :
The Welcome Apero will take place on Monday, 17 August 2026
- Gala Dinner :
The Gala Dinner will take place on Wednesday, 19 August 2026 at 6:00 pm at the Olympic Museum. The museum will be fully privatized for the event.
Participants will have the opportunity to freely explore the exhibitions before the evening begins with an aperitif, followed by a seated three-course dinner with a beautiful view over Lake Geneva.
Tours -19.08.2026
- Widening and filter checked dam – Rhône/Martigny
- River restoration in an urban setting and Maison de la Rivière – Aire/Drize/Tolochenaz
- Lausanne City Tour – Lausanne