Meeting on Flooding and Ditch Systems in Kärdla

Image: Toomas Kokovkin gave a presentation introducing nature-based solutions for the catchment areas of the rivers running through the town. Photo: Reet Kokovkin

Understanding Flood Risks Through Nature-Based Solutions

At the brainstorming session on Kärdla’s drainage ditches, various factors influencing flooding, excess soil moisture, and the impact of stormwater on the town’s sewage system were discussed. Toomas Kokovkin presented the natural causes in a clear and illustrative manner, emphasizing that directing water from natural water bodies too quickly into rivers increases the risk of flooding. Several nature-based solutions were proposed, including using floodplains along ditches and reactivating old, abandoned river valleys to help mitigate this risk.

Challenges in Surface Water Management

It was noted that while the town has a ditch system designed to collect and redirect water from the soil, its functionality is currently poor. The discussion highlighted several issues in Kärdla’s surface water management. Although most of the necessary ditches exist, their condition varies — some are maintained several times a year, while others are overgrown. It was also pointed out that stormwater from private properties is sometimes directed into the sewage system, which is technically illegal.

Image: The meeting of the Kärdla Town Society  Photo: Reet Kokovkin

A Shared Responsibility

There was a consensus that maintaining an effective drainage system is not solely the responsibility of the municipality; property owners also play a crucial role. The main challenge identified was how to encourage more property owners to take responsibility for this shared task.

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