DRYvER’s presentation and objective
The DRYvER project (Securing biodiversity, functional integrity and ecosystem services in DRYing rivER networks) has officially come to an end in February 2025, after more than four years of pioneering research. Funded by the European Commission (EC) under the Horizon 2020 programme, DRYvER brought together an international network of scientists and institutions to better understand the impacts of drying river networks on biodiversity, carbon cycle, ecosystem functions and related services.
The project tackled an urgent but underexplored ecological challenge: the increasing frequency of rivers drying due to climate change and human activities. By combining field data, process-based modelling and socio-economic analysis, DRYvER has created strategies to help mitigate the effects of climate change and manage rivers in Europe and South America. The project has made impressive progress in both science and societal impact, offering insights into the effects of climate change and human activity on drying river networks.
Phases of flowing and drying alternate annually in the naturally intermittent Albarine River (France), a focal drying river network of DRYvER. About half of EU’s river channels now flow intermittently and this fraction is increasing. Photos: B. Launay.
European recognition
DRYvER received strong support from the EC as part of its commitment to sustainable water management and biodiversity conservation. The importance of the project’s findings is also highlighted in a dedicated article by the EC. The project has been recognised not only for its high scientific value, but also for its strong stakeholder engagement.
DRYvER’s results
Despite challenges during the first phase (including Covid-related delays and unexpected field disruptions) the consortium delivered outstanding results across all work packages which include hydrological models for changing rivers, a citizen science app already in use and set to continue beyond the project, and valuable contributions to both climate studies and EU policies.
Most of the project’s scientific publications and deliverables are already publicly available via the DRYvER website and open-access platforms. Additional publications are expected to appear in the coming months, further enriching the knowledge developed by this ambitious project.
Erdyn in DRYvER
Erdyn ensured smooth project management and supported part of social media activities throughout DRYvER project. Thanks are extended to the project coordinator, Thibault Datry from INRAE, and all project partners across Europe and Latin America for their outstanding collaboration and commitment.
We look forward to collaborating on similar projects in the future. If you are interested in 2026 calls and would like to know more about how Erdyn can support you, please contact emilie.baffie@erdyn.fr
