The Loisach river originates in the Zugspitze region of Tyrol and flows through alpine landscapes from Austria to Bavaria, where it joins the Isar near Wolfratshausen. The river’s course was characterised by gravel banks, floodplains, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. However, straightening, canalisation, soil sealing, groundwater extraction and the consequences of the climate crisis have robbed the river of much of its water, altering its natural habitats.
The Loisach Alliance is an interdisciplinary group comprising individuals from journalism, visual arts, ethnology, law, political science, wilderness education, biology, and architecture. From 12 to 18 September 2026, we are organising a travelling conference called “Dialogue of Water Bodies” to which we are inviting Māori from the Whanganui River, as well as people from the Mar Menor, to Tyrol and Bavaria. This “dialogue week” will focus on urgent ecological issues, such as the City of Munich’s extraction of drinking water, the impact of hydroelectric power plants on aquatic life, and the connection between the Loisach River and the Murnauer Moos — a unique bog area in Central Europe. Through this dialogue, the Loisach Alliance will explore the possibility of establishing a river partnership between the Whanganui River and the Loisach.
Our activities range from readings and film screenings to transdisciplinary panel discussions, performances, and art projects.
Initiators: Claus Biegert, Stefanie Zoche
Founding members: Tara Biegert, Volker von Bremen, Oliva Henkel, Simon Wynan
Team members: Arno Pascht, Elisabeth Jahrstorfer, Christof Mauch, Martin Janner, Lea Bonnigton, Juliane Wittman
https://loisachbuendnis.de
