Uncovering the link between river conservation and disaster risk reduction through the invisible connection between people and rivers

Risk depends on the frequency and magnitude of river-related hazards, but also on the number, type and economic value of exposed assets (i.e. the exposure). For this reason, land use planning can increase or decrease the overall societal exposure to river-related risks. In this contribution, we bring together experiences that look into understanding and mapping the perception of river-related risks (both from and to the river) as well as riverine socio-cultural values linked to rivers, such as identity and sense of place. These connections between locals and rivers are essential to understand how to mitigate, adapt to, and revert the effects of human-induced changes on rivers. Using a transdisciplinary approach including questionnaires, interviews, a map-based participatory approach as well as evidence-based data on land and water use, biodiversity and risks, we look into how the perception of such values can influence water resources- and decision management in rivers including Tagliamento (Italy), Soča/Isonzo (Slovenia/Italy), and Upper Neretva (Bosnia-Herzegovina). We look into differences and commonalities in light of conflicting values, such as risk management, energy production and land use impacts on water resources and biodiversity, and transboundary water issues. We explore the synergies between river conservation efforts and ecosystem-based land use planning, and discuss the potential benefit of integrating local knowledge and historical evidence in assessing river-related hazards.