Scientists Build the Largest Digital Database of Northern Eurasian Rivers
A joint Russian–Polish–Chinese research team has created NERM, a massive open dataset mapping more than 620,000 river segments to track climate‑driven shoreline change.
Researchers at Moscow State University, together with international colleagues, have developed a unique digital database of Northern Eurasian rivers known as NERM (the Northern Eurasian Riverbank Migration multi‑tool dataset). The collection contains information on more than 620,000 water segments, allowing scientists to assess shoreline stability and how it shifts in response to climate change.
According to MSU, this is the world’s largest open data repository on continental water systems. It integrates drone imagery, decoded satellite data, and results from field measurements. The research covers major rivers such as the Vistula, Volga, Ural, Sakmara, Yenisei, Ob, and Lena, along with their tributaries.
NERM has become a powerful scientific tool for comparative analysis of river behavior.
A Tool for Global Forecasting
The published materials are intended not only for scientific research—they can also be used to predict future shifts in shoreline configuration. This information is valuable for urban‑planning decisions and environmental monitoring. On the project’s website, the dataset is available as an interactive map and as downloadable archives.
The project illustrates how digital technologies are transforming scientific methods, accelerating research, and improving our ability to forecast global environmental changes.
