Channel planform, riparian vegetation and large wood distribution temporal dynamics along the meandering Odra River (Czechia)

Meandering rivers are among the most dynamic components of fluvial systems. This study presents a GIS-based spatiotemporal analysis of channel planform, riparian vegetation dynamics, and large wood (LW) distribution in a 4.1 km-long unregulated reach of the Odra River (Czechia) between 2016–2023. A series of maps (1:7000) provides a detailed view of lowland fluvial dynamics. The results indicate a persistent dominance of softwood floodplain forest, with minor expansion of hardwoods and managed grasslands. Channel metrics revealed increasing amplitude and sinuosity, indicating ongoing meandering activity. The volumes and number of LW increased over time, especially due to higher occurrence of wood jams, likely resulting from an imbalance between LW recruitment from banks and transport, as well as cessation of artificial LW removal since 2015. These findings offer guidance for river managers and conservation planners, highlighting the value of preserving meandering processes and in-channel wood to support ecosystem complexity and resilience. High-resolution GIS-based maps offer a tool for monitoring meander migration, riparian vegetation change, and in-channel wood dynamics in natural river systems. The presented large-scale maps (1:7000) provide spatial evidence essential for river corridor management and conservation planning. Mapping the distribution of large wood supports informed decisions on its ecological role and flood risk, helping to balance safety and habitat complexity. Longitudinal mapping of planform metrics enables the identification and prediction of lateral channel shifts, which is relevant for infrastructure protection and land-use policy. Incorporating geospatial analyses into river governance frameworks enhances adaptive management under environmental change.