Kater II Evaluation

Abstract

The article evaluates the implementation of KATER II (KArst waTER research program II), a multi-regional initiative financed from ERDF and coordinated by the Municipality of Vienna. The evaluation methodology is in accordance with international good practice. The program deals with increasing demand by citizens and environmental organizations for cleaner rivers and lakes, groundwater and coastal beaches. In many European countries, karstic areas are important and acutely essential for public water supply. These areas are at the same time highly sensitive and valuable natural environments. Conversely, exploitation pressure on these areas is increasing. This mainly relates to fields such as tourism, settlements, transport infrastructure, forestry and pasture management. KATER II aims to safeguard co-existence of land-use activities, water management and environmental protection in sensitive areas by developing a Geographic Information System (GIS) designed to improve decision-making.