Demanding data management …

The project team is focussing especially on the heterogeneity of the data used. Different recording times, scales, cartographic projections, data formats and models not only impair the interpretation of the data but also make data integration more difficult. This can be remedied by storing the data in geo databases and managing the data in its original map projection. Meta information on the individual data records is also particularly helpful here, as is the use of appropriate methods for handling inhomogeneous data.

… and country-specific methods

Flood hazard maps are already available in the border area of interest for the project, but these have different classification systems for the hazard stages. The project partners have even come up with a solution to this problem, however. TIMIS flood uses the individual national categories when presenting the country-specific hazard maps. Cross-border products, by contrast, are compiled according to a new categorisation, which is based on the smallest common denominator of the German and Luxembourg hazard categories. In this way, allowance is made for the situation in the individual countries, while still achieving a meaningful international consensus.

The limits to harmonisation

The examples of data management and the different methods for categorising hazard stages make it clear that a harmonised approach is a prerequisite for successful cooperation. It is also important to keep things in perspective here, however, since too much harmonisation, in turn, will only hinder the efficient cooperation of individual project partners.

A further decisive factor for the success of the project is internal and external communication - such as for securing a regular flow of information between the project partners, or for actively involving those authorities who are affected but are not direct members of the project team. The population concerned is also to be provided with information on the project so as to convince them of the advantages and benefits of cross-border and national hazard maps, as the people who are directly involved. And, finally, the TIMIS project is promoting the transfer of know-how with other cross-border flood protection projects:

• Flood Awareness & Prevention Policy in Border Areas (FLAPP)
• Strategies and Actions for Flood Emergency Risk Management (SAFER)
• NOAH Flood Information- and Warning System (FLIWAS)

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TIMIS flood makes allowance for the situation in the individual countries while still achieving an international consensus.
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