Knowledge of the constitution and the form of the riverbed – especially along the freely-flowing sections – is indispensable for safe navigation along the Danube. The Hydrography and Hydrology Divisions periodically record data during and after extreme events – such as during the extensive measures taken as protection against floodwaters – and also evaluate the data and, if necessary, initiate any construction measures required. In addition, the data compiled also forms the basis for producing the digital inland navigation map (Inland ECDIS).

Using three mobile sounding vehicles and three sounding ships, the Measurements Division of via donau is equipped with state-of-the-art devices. Principle regions of application are the Danube, March and Thaya.

The focus of work is on gathering data on riverbeds as well as measuring throughput and flows. The features of the riverbeds in flowing and standing waters are determined using single-beam echo sounders, and for special tasks a shallow water echo sounder is available. ADCP ultrasound technology (acoustic Doppler current profiler) is used for measuring flows, throughputs and depths by making use of the Doppler effect, and such measurements are conducted from bridges or ships.

via donau measures suspended matter and all water levels as well as acting as a land surveyor, recording positions and altitudes; sedimentation and slope measurements; levelling control; surveying of water engineering structures, etc.

The team is also the head of the floodwater services due to its long years of experience in flooding events.

All basic data for maps are processed, maintained and archived electronically, and used in a comprehensive geo-information system, which makes it possible to link the data to other sets of information.