The Kuressaare storm water management
About this good practice
Before the project, the Kuressaare castle moat was connected to the sea, and the city's stormwater systems did not function well during high sea levels because stormwater drainage through the pipes was obstructed and the storm water did not reach the sea. And if it did, fluctuations in flow rate were high and potentially damaging to the surrounding nature areas. Castle moats as such have a historical value, belonging to the castle as a historical defense structure to protect the castle.
The project involved installing regulators on the connection between the moat and the sea and directing stormwater into the moat.
As a result, during low sea levels, the moat can be emptied, and when the sea level begins to rise, it can be closed. This way, even during high sea levels, the moat serves as a hydraulic buffer for stormwater diversion, and the central city's stormwater systems function better.
The project contributes to improving the living environment of the city and increases the safety of its residents by reducing the risk of flooding and ensuring a better water drainage system. It also contributes to preserving the Natura 2000 areas by avoiding further pollution from drainage systems and keeping the sites healthy.
This is a good example of an environmental investment. By reconstructing a small object (the connection of the moat to the sea and directing stormwater into the moat), the overall functioning of a much larger stormwater system has improved significantly.
Resources needed
The project was funded in 2021 by the Environmental Investment Centre (KIK) with a grant of € 292,965. The total cost of the project was € 418,522.
Evidence of success
The medieval moat surrounding the castle had lost its function. With installation of water level regulators, moats have a new function - collect and stabilize to storm water, protect against the floods and hold back pollution and damage caused by heavy rainfalls discharging to the sea. In addition to that the moats have an aesthetic value contributing to the authenticity of an old medieval castle helping to preserve the cultural heritage.
Potential for learning or transfer
Old infrastructure (medieval moats of the castle) had no function. But with additional investments these moats were turned into a functional storm water collection and management systems, that now contribute to the better flood protection, storm water management, decrease in pollution and less damage of surrounding natural areas and provide for the authentic historical value of the medieval castle.
Further information
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