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Water show at Kocher: Experts check river and residents’ safety!
On January 2nd, 2026, a group of experts will check the waters at the Kocher to ensure flood protection and ecological safety.
Water show at Kocher: Experts check river and residents’ safety!
On January 2, 2026, a comprehensive water show took place on the Kocher, extending from Hüttlingen to Gaildorf. A group of experts was tasked with carefully monitoring both the course of the river and the surrounding areas. The focus of the assessment was the safety of residents in the valley floodplains and the ecological aspects of the water. This regular inspection takes place every five years and is required by law to ensure that water law requirements are met. According to the regulations, water bodies must be regularly checked for their flood protection function and their ecological values, as the Ministry of the Environment emphasizes ( Pudi ).
The tests are particularly important because floods can be dangerous due to floating debris such as wood, compost and other debris. The controls therefore also focused on compliance with strict rules for the waterfront strips: 5 meters in urban areas and 10 meters outside of urban areas. These regulations are intended to ensure that no dangerous deposits such as firewood or old tires are found on the banks of the waters. Property owners who violate these regulations receive a “red card” and are obliged to remedy the grievances. If this does not happen within a “reasonable period of time”, the responsible authorities, such as the district administration, can issue orders and impose fines ( Swabian Post ).
Controlled areas and common grievances
Inspectors also identified several bank breaks and old structures that may need to be dismantled. The most common grievances included barbecue areas, fences and unauthorized deposits on the water's edge. The purpose of the water inspection is to point out such defects in a timely manner and to demand that they be eliminated in order to avoid future cases of damage.
Responsibility for the maintenance of water bodies lies with the responsible bodies in accordance with Section 32 Paragraph 6 of the Water Resources Act (WG). This regulation ensures that water bodies are inspected every five years and that the ecological requirements for the water structure are met by the responsible body. The task of the water survey is explained in more detail in a guide that provides practical information on preparation, implementation and follow-up.
In order to further strengthen water and flood protection in Germany, it is crucial that such checks are carried out regularly and that any deficiencies identified are remedied immediately. Those interested can find further information on water protection policy on the website of the Federal Environment Ministry ( Federal Environment Ministry ).