Splash dams in the Krkonoše Mts: from the history to their possible use

Abstract

This paper summarizes findings from historical sources and literature dealing with the small water reservoirs (splash dams) in the Krkonoše (Giant) Mts. Based on old maps and historical records in archives and regional museums, this study describes the original causes and period of origin of the splash dams, and deals with their function and their location in the field. Additionally, this paper focuses on the mechanism of log driving in this area to fully understand the entire organized procedure. Up to twenty-four splash dams, built in the Krkonoše Mts mainly in the second half of the sixteenth century, were traced in historical records. At the end, there were given examples of some localities in relation to the possible idea of the restoration of some former small water reservoirs with an effort to gradually increase water retention capacity, and reduce runoff variability in headstream areas.