Despite being one of the smallest countries in Europe, Liechtenstein is blessed with several waterways that make its landscape beautiful and unique. Liechtenstein is located in the heart of the Alps, and its terrain is characterized by rugged mountains and deep valleys, which are connected by a network of rivers and streams. In this article, we will explore the significant waterways that can be found in Liechtenstein.
The Rhine River
The Rhine River is one of the most significant waterways that run through Liechtenstein. It is the longest river in Europe, stretching for over 1,230 kilometers, and it serves as a natural border separating Liechtenstein from Switzerland. The Rhine River originates in the Swiss Alps and flows through several countries before emptying into the North Sea. The Rhine River is essential to Liechtenstein’s economy because it provides a source of fresh water for irrigation and hydroelectric power.
Samina River
The Samina River is a small mountain stream that flows through the Samina Valley in Liechtenstein. The Samina River originates from the Samina Glacier and flows for about 14 kilometers before joining the Ill River, which eventually empties into the Rhine River. The Samina Valley is a popular hiking destination, and visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Austra River
The Austra River is a small tributary of the Rhine River that flows through the eastern part of Liechtenstein. The Austra River originates in Austria and flows for about 20 kilometers before joining the Rhine River. The Austra River is essential for the production of hydroelectric power, and it also provides a source of fresh water for irrigation.
Ruggeller Riet
Ruggeller Riet is a wetland area that covers over 310 hectares in Liechtenstein. It is situated in the northern part of the country and is fed by several streams and rivers. Ruggeller Riet is an essential habitat for many plant and animal species, and it is protected by the government of Liechtenstein.
Eschner Canal
The Eschner Canal is an artificial waterway that was constructed in the 19th century to regulate the flow of the Rhine River. The canal runs for about 10 kilometers and connects the Rhine River with the Samina River. The Eschner Canal is important for the transportation of goods and for the production of hydroelectric power.
Schaanerbach River
The Schaanerbach River is a small tributary of the Rhine River that flows through the town of Schaan in Liechtenstein. The river originates from the mountains and flows for about 7 kilometers before joining the Rhine River. The Schaanerbach River is an essential source of fresh water for the town of Schaan.
Gander River
The Gander River is a small tributary of the Rhine River that flows through the town of Triesen in Liechtenstein. The river originates from the mountains and flows for about 6 kilometers before joining the Rhine River. The Gander River is important for the production of hydroelectric power.
Malbun Dam
The Malbun Dam is an artificial reservoir located in the mountains of Liechtenstein. The dam was constructed in the 1960s to regulate the flow of water for hydroelectric power production. The reservoir is fed by several streams and rivers, and it covers an area of about 15 hectares.
Alpenrhein River
The Alpenrhein River is a tributary of the Rhine River that runs through Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The river originates from the Swiss Alps and flows for about 90 kilometers before joining the Rhine River. The Alpenrhein River is important for the production of hydroelectric power, and it also serves as a source of fresh water for irrigation.
Spiss River
The Spiss River is a small tributary of the Rhine River that flows through the town of Balzers in Liechtenstein. The river originates from the mountains and flows for about 5 kilometers before joining the Rhine River. The Spiss River is important for the production of hydroelectric power.
Bordering waterways
Liechtenstein shares its borders with Switzerland and Austria, both of which have significant waterways. The Rhine River is a natural border separating Liechtenstein from Switzerland, and it is a significant waterway for both countries. Austria has several rivers that flow into Liechtenstein, including the Austra River and the Spiss River.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Liechtenstein may be a small country, but it is blessed with several significant waterways that are important for its economy and its environment. The Rhine River is the most significant waterway that flows through Liechtenstein, but the country also has several small mountain streams and rivers that add to its beauty and charm. The government of Liechtenstein recognizes the importance of these waterways and has taken steps to protect them from pollution and other forms of degradation.
