When we talk about floods, we often focus on the end of the water’s journey: cities and river mouths. True flood protection, however, should start upstream, in mountainous catchment basins. Modern science has now moved away from the old logic of “rapid water removal” and is turning toward solutions of flow attenuation and natural retention.
This is exactly where Forest Engineering Works come into play. These are not merely technical constructions, but critical infrastructures that integrate seamlessly with the natural environment. They are fully aligned with EU Directive 2007/60/EC, combining structural resilience with ecological balance.
At Ensogreen, our team of foresters has the expertise to design and implement such specialized interventions, acting as a strategic partner for Municipalities, Technical Services, and construction companies.
Mountain Hydrology: The Philosophy of Flow Attenuation
While conventional flood protection works in lowland areas, such as concrete channelization, aim to quickly discharge water to the sea, mountain hydrology interventions focus on retaining water upstream, within the mountainous terrain.
This approach is based on three pillars:
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- Reduction of Hydraulic Gradient: We “slow down” water velocity, reducing its destructive force.
- Control of Sediment Load: Water is not the only threat. Mud and stones—transported sediments—are what clog drainage systems and cause damage in settlements. Forest engineering works act as “filters” that retain these materials.
- Ecological Engineering: We use natural materials (wood, stone) that blend into the landscape and do not require the heavy environmental permitting associated with conventional civil works.
“Anti-Nero” Framework and Funding Programs
The need for such infrastructure is more urgent than ever, especially after the extensive wildfires of recent years. Through the National Plan “Greece 2.0” and the Anti-Nero program, large-scale forest cleaning and erosion-control actions are being funded nationwide.
Their implementation, however, requires strict compliance with the specifications of the General Directorate of Forests. At Ensogreen, we have in-depth knowledge of these program requirements, ensuring proper execution as technical consultants.
Technical Applications: From Log Barriers to Torrent Regulation
The durability of a forest engineering structure is determined by attention to detail and compliance with Greek Technical Specifications (ETEP).
1. Log Barriers
A preventive and corrective intervention in burned areas aimed at soil retention.
- Construction of low barriers made of logs (usually from the burned trees themselves), placed perpendicular to the flow of small streams.
- We strictly follow guidelines for proper anchoring and spillway creation, ensuring the structure withstands water pressure and is not washed away by the first rainfall.
2. Brushwood Fences
A specialized solution for steep slopes.
- Creation of “living” or non-living fences by weaving branches between stakes along contour lines.
- They function as micro-barriers that retain topsoil and seeds, helping the forest regenerate naturally.
3. Bioengineering-Based Torrent Regulation
Instead of leveling streambeds with bulldozers—a practice that often leads to increased erosion—we apply ecological regulation techniques.
- Preservation of Riparian Zones: We protect the root systems of plane trees and willows, as they act as natural reinforcement for riverbanks.
- Stone Check Dams & Gabion-Like Structures: Where hard protection is required, we use permeable structures that allow water to pass through (filtration), avoiding impermeable concrete solutions.
Why Choose Ensogreen
Mountain hydrology requires a combined understanding of Forestry and Engineering. Simple experience in earthworks is not sufficient to design a project capable of withstanding the forces of nature.
Are you a Technical Service executive or a project contractor? Contact us for specialized support in studies and projects related to forest road construction and mountain hydrology.