Revitalization of the Botič Stream in Prague’s Nusle District

The Botič stream, with a length of over 34 kilometers, is one of the longest watercourses in Prague. In the section within Folimanka Park, the streambed was in a critical condition, prompting the Prague City Council to initiate its reconstruction. The work, based on a project prepared by Photon Water, was completed in August of this year.

Photon Water developed the project documentation for the streambed restoration between river kilometers 1.42 and 1.57, and the construction was finished in August 2024.

The reconstruction included stabilizing the embankment, restoring stone pathways, and improving water retention to create a healthier environment for wildlife and visitors alike.

Key Project Details

Investor: Prague City Council
Designer: Photon Water Technology
Contractor: Lesy hlavního města Prahy
Length of Restored Section: 150 meters

Restoration and Construction Works

The damaged bed fortifications were removed and replaced with stone paving or rock revetments. Stones weighing up to 500 kg were arranged to create a system of deeper pools and shallower crossings, providing a more varied flow path in what was previously a straight channel. The gaps between the large stones were filled with smaller stone gravel.

Along the base of the embankment walls, a roughly 1-meter wide pathway made of stone or concrete-set paving was built to prevent the erosion of the foundations. This method was aimed at improving water retention in the stream during normal flows and creating suitable conditions for aquatic life and wetland vegetation.

Under the bridges, the original stone paving was restored, and the fortifications along the entire length were stabilized with transverse thresholds. The stone embankment walls were cleaned with high-pressure water, and damaged joints were repaired. The concrete cornice at the top of the wall was repaired in places where it had degraded.

The earth slopes above the embankment walls were leveled and gently sloped from the existing sidewalk to the embankment wall’s cornice. The slopes were covered with humus and seeded with permanent grass. 

Future Plans

Photon Water is already preparing the next phase of repairs for the adjacent section of the stream. These efforts contribute to a better natural environment in Nusle and provide a safe, enjoyable space for the Folimanka park visitors.