Joint Danube Survey 3

This is the website of the Joint Danube Survey, the biggest river expedition of the World. Learn more about the scientific objectives of the JDS3 - and get information on how to connect to it.

The Joint Danube Survey 3 (JDS3), was the world’s biggest river research expedition of its kind in 2013, the UN International Year of Water Cooperation, with full results published in spring 2015. JDS3 catalyzed international cooperation from all 14 of the main Danube Basin countries and the European Commission, united through the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR).

A Joint Danube Survey is carried out only once every six years – JDS1 was in 2001 and JDS2 in 2007. You can follow course of the sampling trip of the three ships and the subsequent analysis work on the news blog.

The Joint Danube Survey had 3 main objectives:

  • To collect information on parameters not covered in the ongoing monitoring
  • To have data that is readily comparable for the entire river because it comes from a single source
  • To promote the work of the ICPDR and raise awareness for water management

For six weeks between 13 August and 26 September 2013, the JDS3 ships travel 2,375 km downstream the Danube River, through 10 countries, to the Danube Delta. The JDS3 was coordinated by the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR). An international Core Team of 20 scientists was responsible for sampling, sample processing, on-board analyses and all survey activities.

Leading laboratories across Europe carried out chemical analyses. Corporate partners, such as the Coca-Cola System and Donauchemie, supported the JDS3 through financial contributions and by sharing their knowledge about water management from a private sector perspective. Public events ensured that everybody could get involved with JDS3. This website is the intersection of all communication efforts related to the Joint Danube Survey - your starting point for connecting with the expedition!

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