Bodies of flowing water are subject to permanent change caused by hydrological events such as floods or the accretion or erosion of solid matter.

Anthropogenic intervention in the context of water management measures and the navigation-related use of watercourses also influence natural processes.

The term anthropogenic here stands for anything produced, caused or influenced by humans. Hence, knowledge about the properties and the shape of the riverbed, particularly in free-flowing sections, is required to ensure safe navigation on the river Danube.

Hydrographical and hydrological data are collected on a continuous basis as well as during and after extreme events, e.g. as part of extensive flood relief operations. The data are analysed and used for designing further measures.

In addition, the collected data form the basis for creating electronic navigational charts (Inland ECDIS). The collected data and parameters form the basis of all projects concerning water management, ecology and navigation