4th International Conference “WATERS IN SENSITIVE AND PROTECTED AREAS”

Local communities support Mission Ocean, Seas, and Waters through active and passive restoration measures for wetlands and floodplains: case study of Topoljski Dunavac in Draž Municipality.

The 4th International Conference “WATERS IN SENSITIVE AND PROTECTED AREAS” gathers experts, scientists, and policymakers to address the urgent challenges on water resources and ecosystems. From effective water management strategies to biodiversity conservation efforts, the conference serves as a hub for interdisciplinary dialogue and exchange of innovative solutions. Taking place in the city of Pula. known by a rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, participants will engage in discussions aimed at bridging research gaps and shaping regulatory frameworks to ensure the sustainability of water resources.

In the conference we have the pleasure to be represented by CEKOM, with an oral and a poster presentation of one of their recent studies. This participation underscores the project’s commitment to advancing sustainable practices and fostering community engagement in environmental conservation. As the conference continues participant will benefit from knowledge exchange and collaboration, attendees input will contribute to the ongoing global effort towards the protection and rational use of water resources and ecosystems.

European wetlands, including those in the Danube River Basin (DRB), are vital for biodiversity and ecosystem services but have faced significant degradation, primarily due to anthropogenic activities and climate change. The Draž Municipality in Croatia, part of the NATURA2000 network, is participating in the DaWetRest project, led by researchers from CEKOM, to restore wetlands, focusing on the Topoljski Dunavac wetland. The DaWetRest project serves as a lighthouse demonstrator for the EU Mission Ocean, Seas, and Waters, aiming to engage local communities in active and passive restoration measures. Initial assessments conducted in 2023 by CEKOM researchers revealed the necessity of nature-based solutions, such as repopulating fish to enhance biodiversity and support waterfowl populations. Stakeholder interviews identified key challenges, including sedimentation, barriers to water inflow, eutrophication, and illegal fishing. Active and passive restoration measures are required to address these challenges and protect this valuable ecosystem.

REFERENCES

1. Bhowmik, S. 2022. Ecological and Economic Importance of Wetlands and Their Vulnerability: A Review. Research Anthology on Ecosystem Conservation and Preserving Biodiversity, edited by Information Resources Management Association, IGI Global, 2022, pp. 11-27.
2. Hein, T., Schwarz, U., Habersack, H., Nichersu, I., Preiner, S., Willby, N., Weigelhofer, G. 2016. Current status and restoration options for floodplains along the Danube River. Science of The Total Environment, 543 (A): 778-790.
3. Svensson, L., Mullarney, K., Zetterström, D., Grant, P.J. Collins bird guide. 2nd ed. London: Collins, pp 1-448.

This study will be presented in the form of an oral presentation and poster at the 4th International Conference WATERS IN SENSITIVE AND PROTECTED AREAS