2024 - Drava Life

Photo Kristijan Toplak

A 5,714-meter-long DRAVA LIFE Educational trail opened at the Dravska priča Visitor Center

28/11/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

Tatjana Arnold Sabo

Noskovci, November 27, 2024 – A gathering at the Dravska Priča Visitor Center marked the official opening of the DRAVA LIFE Educational Trail, the final activity of the project focused on the revitalization of the Drava River and the preservation of its ecosystems.

The DRAVA LIFE Educational Trail stretches 5,714 meters and features 25 info-educational boards, bringing visitors closer to the values of protected areas, flora, and fauna of the Drava River. The trail also includes two newly constructed birdwatching hides, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy nature and observe birds.

During the event, Tatjana Arnold Sabo, Director of the Public Institution for Managing Protected Natural Areas and the Ecological Network of Virovitica-Podravina County, stated: “The DRAVA LIFE Educational Trail is the crowning achievement of our efforts to preserve the natural heritage of the Drava River through this project, which has created a space for education, recreation, and enjoyment in nature for all generations.”

Photo Iva Naglić Dolić

As part of the project, a bio-research station at the Dravska Priča Visitor Center was additionally equipped in 2017, enhancing research and educational activities. The Public Institution oversees the protection, presentation, and promotion of 16 protected areas and the ecological network in the Virovitica-Podravina County. The Drava River is the most significant protected area in the county. The institution works hard to raise awareness among the local population about the importance of preserving ecosystems, emphasizing the benefits of protected areas for quality of life and their sustainable economic and tourism potential.

Since its inception in 2015, the project, which ends on November 30 this year, has carried out numerous activities across six restoration sites in three counties: Koprivnica-Križevci, Varaždin, and Virovitica-Podravina. These include river restoration, flood risk reduction, and strengthening recreational potential for local residents.

Jasmin Sadiković, project coordinator from the Green Osijek Nature and Environment Protection Association, highlighted: “An extremely important set of project activities relates to educating students and local residents. Therefore, I am particularly pleased that with the opening of the Educational Trail, we symbolically close the project, even though work on the restoration of the Drava River continues. Through educational activities, we aim to increase local awareness about the importance of natural and preserved rivers and improve their knowledge of the Natura 2000 network, especially concerning protected river birds.”

Photo Kristijan Toplak

Igor Tošić, project leader from Croatian Waters, reflected on the planned restoration of the Drava sidesidearm Miholjački Martinci (C.6),” located near Čađavica in Virovitica-Podravina County: “The project involves the right side-arm of the Drava River, spanning 2,500 meters in total. Planned restoration includes the removal of an existing barrier, bioengineering for bank stabilization, and the creation of nesting conditions for protected species such as kingfishers and sand martins. These interventions will stimulate dynamic processes and ensure water flow through the side-arm for most of the year.”

Photo Kristijan Toplak

To ensure protection for future generations, the DRAVA LIFE project area has become part of the world’s first Five-Country UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube (MDD). This project covers areas in Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, and Serbia, making the Drava part of the global network of the most renowned natural areas.

Lisa Wolf from WWF Austria emphasized: “The DRAVA LIFE project was a pioneering step for future river restoration projects in the region. The dedication of participants and collaborators has led to the implementation of another major EU project, now spanning five countries: the LIFE RESTORE for MDD project. The restoration of the Drava River benefits both nature and people in the region, serving as a green and blue safety net.”

As part of the program, the film “DRAVA LIFE – A New Life for the Drava” was also presented.

Alen Međić

Varaždin

Final DRAVA LIFE International Symposium kicks off in Varaždin

23/10/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

From vision to implementation of river restoration in the UNESCO Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube

Varaždin, Croatia – October 22^nd, 2024 The Final International Symposium of the DRAVA LIFE (DL) project is being held at the Varaždin City Museum, marking the culmination of nearly a decade of dedicated efforts to restore and protect the Drava River. From October 21-24, 2024, experts, policymakers, and environmental advocates from across the UNESCO Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube (TBR MDD) will gather in Varaždin to reflect on the project’s achievements and shape the future of river restoration in the region.

Co-funded by the European Union under the LIFE Programme, the DRAVA LIFE project has been a pioneering initiative in river restoration and sustainable management along the Drava River, part of the UNESCO Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere Reserve. Launched in 2015, the project has focused on restoring natural habitats, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting integrated water management through cross-border cooperation across the ‘Amazon of Europe.’ Since its launch in 2015, DL has become a leading example of integrated water management and cross-border cooperation in Europe.

Celebrating a major milestone in regional river restoration

The symposium aims to promote knowledge exchange on river restoration within the TBR MDD, involving Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, and Serbia. Project partners, river restoration experts, and stakeholders from all five countries will discuss the current state of river ecosystems and the importance of a healthy river network. Additionally, discussions will explore how river restoration can contribute to the ambitious goals of the EU Nature Restoration Law, with a particular focus on transboundary and basin-wide sediment management. Success stories of reintroducing riverine plants and managing habitats for bird and fish species will also be highlighted.

“Hosting this Symposium in Varaždin, at the heart of the Drava River, is an honor. It serves as a reminder of the importance of local action in global conservation efforts. The City of Varaždin is grateful to all DL who have made significant strides in restoring this vital river, which has been important to our city and its inhabitants for generations and will continue to be in the future,” said Ms. Slađana Miočić, Head of the Department of Economic Affairs, City of Varaždin.

Milan Rezo, director of the Water Management Department for Mura and Upper Drava in Croatian Waters, stated: “Through this project, Croatian Waters has demonstrated its commitment to innovative and sustainable water management practices. The restoration of the Drava River has shown that it is possible to balance the needs of nature with those of local communities. Recent floods have further underscored the critical importance of sustainable river management, and we will continue to integrate these successful practices to protect both the environment and local populations.”

“This project is a shining example of how we can restore nature while ensuring sustainable development. The EU Nature Restoration Law opens new opportunities for the restoration of rivers and floodplain forests across Europe, and we are proud that the DL project sets a precedent for these future initiatives,” highlighted Igor Kreitmayer from the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition, at the opening of the event.

Jasmin Sadiković from the NGO Green Osijek emphasized the collaborative approach as a key strength of the DRAVA LIFE project. By bringing together NGOs, public institutions, and local communities, remarkable progress has been made in restoring the river’s ecosystems and biodiversity.

“WWF has been dedicated to the protection of the Mura-Drava-Danube region for over 20 years. The designation of the 5-Country Biosphere Reserve in 2021 was a monumental achievement, and the DRAVA LIFE project has been pivotal in restoring river ecosystems in Croatia. As we face the ongoing challenge of reversing ecological degradation, river restoration remains critical—not only for biodiversity but also for improved flood protection, water quality, and recreational opportunities for local communities. WWF will continue to support and advocate for these efforts”, remarked Nataša Kalauz, CEO of WWF Adria.

Looking Ahead

Drava, Gabajeva Greda

Although the DRAVA LIFE project officially concludes in November 2024, its legacy will continue through future restoration initiatives and the ongoing efforts of partners across the TBR MDD. The symposium provides an opportunity to reflect on past successes while setting the stage for the next steps in safeguarding Europe’s rivers.

Participants will also join an excursion to key restoration sites along the Drava River, witnessing firsthand the remarkable progress achieved through the project and the beauty and biodiversity of the Croatian stretch of the river.

From vision to implementation of river restoration

19/10/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

Varaždin, Croatia – October 22^nd, 2024 The Final International Symposium of the DRAVA LIFE project is taking place at the Varaždin City Museum, Herzer Palace, marking the culmination of nearly a decade of dedicated efforts to restore and protect the Drava River.

The international DRAVA LIFE Symposium aims to foster the exchange of know-how on river restoration projects within the UNESCO Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube (TBR MDD) between Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary and Serbia. Project partners, river restoration experts and stakeholders from all five countries will discuss the status quo and the need for a healthy river ecosystem within the TBR MDD – now and in the future. They will also discuss how river restoration in the TBR MDD will contribute to the ambitious goals of the new EU Nature Restoration

Law. A special focus will be on a transboundary and basin-wide approach for sediment management, as the DRAVA LIFE Symposium will also serve as a kick-off for the Sediment Stakeholder Dialogue within the EU LIFE RESTORE for MDD project.

The TBR MDD serves as an international platform for cooperation in the implementation of harmonised and integrated river management, nature conservation and sustainable use in the region.

Please find the Agenda on this link.

Nikolina Stjepanović

DRAVA LIFE

Commencement of Restoration Works for the Drava River Ecosystem in Varaždin County

12/09/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

Općina Cestica, 12.9.2024.

Municipality of Cestica, September 12, 2024 – Restoration work on the Drava River ecosystem continues at the Otok Virje (C1) site in Varaždin County as part of the “DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management” project. The aim is to restore a 1.3 km-long side channel and partially remove the riverbank reinforcement, allowing water to flow into the channel and fostering the creation of new habitats for birds. This work will enhance the river’s natural dynamics, contribute to the protection of endangered species, and improve flood safety in populated areas.

Currently, the right side channel of the Drava River, “Otok Virje (C.1),” is not connected to the river from the upstream side; instead, water enters it from the downstream side. The area is mostly overgrown with dense vegetation, with larger stretches of forest along the course of the Drava River. To improve water flow, it is essential to remove vegetation around the bridge and the side channel and utilize the excavated material to build access roads. These measures will benefit numerous endangered habitats and species in the Natura 2000 areas and enhance flood protection in populated areas along the Drava River, while also increasing the recreational value of the area for the local community.

DRAVA LIFE – the largest river restoration project in Croatia – is entering its final phase, laying the foundation for future projects and international cooperation

“Through the implementation of this unique project, which exemplifies the collaboration between water management and nature conservation institutions and NGOs, we are restoring key natural features of the Drava ecosystem by reopening and creating new side channels, removing and adapting riverbank reinforcements, and preserving floodplains and natural steep riverbanks,” said Igor Tošić, project manager at Croatian Waters.

To ensure protection for future generations, the DRAVA LIFE project area has become part of the world’s first Five-Country UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube (MDD), known as the “European Amazon.” This project encompasses regions in Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, and Serbia, integrating the Drava River into the global network of the world’s most renowned natural areas.

“We are proud that the DRAVA LIFE project, the first of its kind in Croatia and the region, has laid the groundwork for future projects and collaboration on the restoration of the Mura-Drava-Danube river ecosystem, one of the most important in Europe,” emphasized Arno Mohl from WWF Austria.

Silvija Zagorec, Deputy Prefect of Varaždin County, emphasized that the Drava River enters Croatia precisely in this county, where there is a strong awareness of the importance of its conservation.

“The Drava flows through eight of our municipalities and one city, shaping and defining a significant part of our county. The river has been protected since 2011 and is the largest protected area in our county, with international significance as it is also under UNESCO protection. This commitment requires us to provide long-term care and protection for this river. In our county, the Drava River is home to as many as 200 bird species, and studies have shown that it boasts the highest diversity of fish species in Croatia. We must preserve this wealth,” said Silvija Zagorec.

The Public Institution “Nature of Varaždin County” is continuously engaged in the protection and conservation of the areas along the Drava River. In recent years, through various projects, they have conducted research on fauna, including dragonflies, beetles, otters, fish, and amphibians. Notably, they have published informative booklets available to all interested citizens. In the Drava area of Varaždin County, they have established six DRAVA LIFE informational and educational points, as well as an educational playground for children in the Drava Park Forest in Varaždin.

Additionally, they continue to implement activities for the reintroduction of the sand martin (Myricaria germanica), a species that is nearly extinct today but was once common along the river’s gravel banks. They are also working on habitat maintenance for rare bird species, which includes improving steep banks for nesting sand martins and maintaining islands for nesting little ringed plovers in the reservoir of the Varaždin Hydroelectric Plant.

Sanja Kopjar JU Priroda Varaždinske županije

Although this project is nearing completion, activities aimed at the protection and conservation of the Drava River continue through other initiatives, such as the Life Restore for MDD project. The activities of this project in Varaždin County focus on the removal of invasive species, which is also crucial for biodiversity preservation. It is particularly important that we are also working on establishing educational programs like “School by the River,” as educating the younger generations is of invaluable significance,” concluded Sanja Kopjar, director of the Public Institution Nature of Varaždin County.

11.9.2024. Legrad

Action Day at the New Educational Water Center in Legrad

11/09/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

September 11, 2024 – Representatives from the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas in Koprivnica-Križevci County, the Green Osijek Association for Nature and Environmental Protection, and Croatian Waters hosted an Educational Action Day at the Educational Water Center in Legrad. The event was attended by 47 students from Fran Galović High School in Koprivnica. Its aim was to equip students with new knowledge and practical experience related to nature and river conservation, while also encouraging their active participation in environmental protection.

As part of the event, the students watched the film “DRAVA LIFE – A New Life for the Drava,” which provided insights into the project’s activities and innovative methods for restoring the Drava River. Following the film, they engaged in a quiz through an interactive presentation, where they tested their understanding of the importance of river conservation and biodiversity.

Invasive Species Hunting

In the field, the students learned about invasive species, their biology, and ecology, and participated in their removal. They gained new knowledge about the threats invasive species pose and actively contributed to the preservation of local ecosystems.

River Habitat Restoration

During a walk to the newly restored side channel of the Drava River, the students learned about the habitat restoration process and the importance of revitalized side channels through the DRAVA LIFE project. This topic emphasized the critical role habitat restoration plays in preserving biodiversity and introduced students to the positive changes within their community.

This educational-action day provided students with a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of nature conservation through interactive and practical activities. We believe that this experience will encourage the students to further reflect on environmental issues and motivate them to actively participate in future ecological initiatives.

Photos: Association for Nature and Environmental Protection Zeleni Osijek and the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas in Koprivnica-Križevci County

Posjet predstavnika CINEA-e

DRAVA LIFE Site Visit with CINEA Representatives

08/07/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

On World Environment Day, observed on June 5th, representatives from CINEA, the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency, visited the Drava River restoration sites covered by the DRAVA LIFE project.

Project partners, including Hrvatske Vode, Green Osijek, and WWF Austria, showcased the achieved goals and activities to date, highlighting the unique characteristics of river habitats and species.

Photos by Nikolina Stjepanović, Tanja Nikowitz, and Zdenko Kereša.

Revital

DRAVA LIFE team members participated in the “Fit for MDD River Restoration” training

27/06/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

Members of the DRAVA LIFE team joined the ‘Fit for MDD River Restoration’ training organized by REVITAL Integrative Naturraumplanung GmbH in Austria.

The training course aims to be a platform for learning, exchange, and know-how transfer from international and national experience of state-of-the-art integrated river restoration amongst partners and planners.

The first of three certified international river restoration trainings was completed last week. The theoretical part of the lectures was held at the renowned Austrian company Revital, while the practical part and field visit took place near the city of Lienz in South Tyrol, where the Drava River meets the turbulent and dam-free Isel River.

The project “LIFE RESTORE for MDD – Preservin and restoring floodplain forest habitats along the Mura-Drava-Danube rivers” focuses on the conservation and restoration of the largest contiguous floodplain forest habitat system in the TBR MDD for improving its conservation status.

The rivers in the project area (Mura, Drava and Danube) are facing riverbed incision and water level decrease due to bedload deficit and past river regulation.

The goal of river restoration in the MDD area is to implement measures, which will restore and promote natural hydromorphodynamic processes in the river channel and floodplain area and to use synergies between water management and nature conservation as already demonstrated in various projects in the region such as Drava LIFE or WISEDRAVALIFE.

Knjiga "Drava jučer, danas, sutra"

Presentation of the book and the video about Drava

14/06/2024/in Drava, Nekategorizirano, Project /by Iva Naglić Dolić

As part of the celebration of the Day of the Municipality of Đelekovec, a presentation was held for the book and video by Goran Šafarek, created within the DRAVA LIFE project.

After Đelekovec was declared the First Sand Martin Village earlier in the day, the presentation of the book “Drava Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow” was held in the afternoon at the Đelekovec Fire Station. For the first time, the video “DRAVA LIFE – New Life for the Drava,” which showcases the activities of the long-term unique project to revitalize the Drava River, was screened.

Thank you to all the residents of Đelekovec and the surrounding area who attended. Special thanks for the interesting discussion and emotional impressions of what the Drava means to you and life by the river, with all its beauties as well as the threats that come with living by the river.

Photos Marko Horvat

Lara Samošćanec i Jasna Puhar

Đelekovec has been declared the first sand martin village

11/06/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

Đelekovec, June 10, 2024 – The village of Đelekovec has been declared the first sand martin village in Croatia. Within the same municipality is a steep riverbank on the Drava River called Libanovec, which serves as a home and favorite nesting site for one of the largest colonies of these strictly protected bird species. This recognition highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and the successful collaboration between the local community, farmers, and ecological experts.

Jasmin Sadiković, Zeleni Osijek

Jasna Puhar

Igor Tošić

The sand martin (Riparia riparia) is a small migratory bird that nests in colonies on steep, sandy riverbanks. Its presence is a significant indicator of the health of river ecosystems. About 70% of the Croatian sand martin population nests along the Croatian-Hungarian border, with the Libanovec bank being a crucial habitat for this species.

Sustainable Management and Nature Conservation

The steep riverbank at Libanovec was formed in the 1980s due to significant changes at the mouth of the Mura into the Drava. The municipality of Đelekovec sought to protect the agricultural land along the bank. Various options were considered, and a solution was reached that satisfied all parties involved – water management, nature conservation, the Municipality of Đelekovec, and farmers. The land was leased to the owner of the Puhar family farm. The municipality and Mrs. Puhar will sign an annex to the contract allowing erosion of the agricultural land, which will reduce the rental price. This initiative represents a successful example of cooperation between the local community, farmers, and ecological experts in preserving biodiversity and improving the quality of life.

“Instead of environmentally less acceptable bank reinforcements, so-called cross groins were constructed,” explained Igor Tošić from Hrvatske vode. “An integrated water management approach allowed us to protect this valuable natural habitat, thereby also protecting the area along the bank from erosion.”

“We are proud to declare Đelekovec as the first sand martin village in Croatia today,” said the mayor of the Municipality of Đelekovec, Lara Samošćanec. “I am glad that we will protect the sand martins so that our land remains their favorite summer destination and so that our residents and visitors can continue to enjoy them.”

“We farmers live from and with nature, so we care about preserving it for future generations. We are pleased that we reached a satisfactory agreement with the Municipality and the partners of the DRAVA LIFE project and that we continue to cultivate the land in harmony with these beautiful birds. We hope that this activity will enable their numbers to increase in the future,” said Jasna Puhar (Puhar Family Farm).

The sand martin, a small migratory bird from the swallow family, nests in colonies along sandy riverbanks. It serves as a crucial indicator of river ecosystem health. In your municipality, the steep banks of Libanovec are a vital habitat and breeding ground for one of Croatia’s largest sand martin colonies. Nearly 70% of Croatia’s sand martin population resides near the Croatian-Hungarian border. Globally, this species is declining, making the preservation of the Libanovec coast and its avian visitors critically important.

“We are proud to have protected the steep bank in Libanovec as part of the DRAVALIFE project. This colony has hosted over 1,000 breeding pairs of sand martins in some years”, said Tanja Nikowitz from WWF Austria.

“At the project’s outset, we explored various ways to protect the steep bank while also addressing the needs for farmland and water protection. Our collaborative solution integrates water management and nature conservation to safeguard the land behind the steep bank. The farmland, already publicly owned and managed by the municipality of Đelekovec, is leased to Mrs. Puhar, a dedicated farmer. Both parties were committed to preserving the sand martin colony for the future. Consequently, they will sign an agreement allowing for farmland erosion, with reduced rent for the farmer. This initiative by the municipality of Đelekovec and Mrs. Puhar is exemplary, not only in Croatia but beyond.”

“Several other endangered and valuable steep banks along the Drava River require similar protection. Natural contractual measures like those in Libanovec, or land purchases, are essential for conserving these habitats and their avian residents. Ensuring the security of the land behind these banks is crucial for effective water management and erosion control. Such integrated river management efforts necessitate joint forces”, concluded Nikowitz.

“This is an exceptional recognition for Đelekovec and the entire Koprivnica-Križevci County. The natural areas of the County, renowned for their beauty and exceptional value for the preservation of biodiversity, are protected as part of the Natura 2000 areas, the Mura-Drava Regional Park, and are part of UNESCO Five-Country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube”, said Željka Kolar, Director of the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas in the Koprivnica-Križevci County.

little terns

Don’t Disturb the Little Tern – Ambassador of the Living Drava

20/05/2024/in Nekategorizirano /by Iva Naglić Dolić

May 17, 2024 – An educational workshop was held at the premises of the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas in the Koprivnica-Križevci County. The workshop gathered nature enthusiasts and regular visitors to the riverbanks. The workshop’s focus was to raise awareness about the sensitivity of the Little Tern’s habitat, and other birds that nest on gravel banks, during the breeding season.

The Little Tern (Sternula albifrons) is one of the rarest breeding birds in Croatia. Its body is slender with narrow wings and a forked tail, perfectly adapted for hunting fish in rivers and seas. The chicks are gray-brown-yellow, perfectly suited for nesting in habitats of gravel and sandy islands, as well as vegetation-free banks and islands. In Croatia, it nests only on the Drava River in the Koprivnica-Križevci County (with an average of 4-7 breeding pairs), while the rest of our population lives by the sea.

This strictly protected species is threatened by river regulation and hydropower plants, gravel and sand extraction, and human disturbances such as rowing, fishing, swimming, and similar activities. The presence of the Little Tern is an indicator of dynamic parts of the river flow with sandy and gravel banks, steep shores, and backwaters that are also home to other endangered river bird species dependent on dynamic habitats, such as the Sand Martin, Kingfisher, Bee-eater, and others. Therefore, the Little Tern has become a symbol of the Drava River and the Mura-Drava-Danube Five-country Biosphere Reserve. Unlike the Common Tern, the Little Tern refuses to nest on artificial platforms and is exclusively tied to the natural river.

To preserve the last breeding pairs of the Little Tern, it is necessary to restore the river’s dynamics and allow the Drava to create new gravel and sandy banks, as well as prevent disturbances to the birds during the nesting season. This is one of the main goals of the DRAVA LIFE project.

Participants received information on responsible practices to minimize disturbances to these protected bird species during the crucial breeding period, emphasizing the need to avoid using gravel banks from April to July to increase the population and ensure these birds become common neighbors on the Drava River again. Željka Kolar, director of the Public Institution, highlighted the importance of protecting the Drava River and provided an overview of the protected areas and species found within the County, emphasizing the Mura-Drava Regional Park, which is part of the Natura 2000 area important for the conservation of birds, species, and habitat types, and part of the Mura-Drava-Danube Five-Country Biosphere Reserve.

“Workshops like this serve as key tools in fostering shared responsibility for the protection of the unique ecosystems of the Drava River and ensuring the continuous well-being of its diverse plant and animal life,” said Ms. Kolar. “This initiative represents a step towards nature conservation and creating harmony between humans and wildlife, inviting everyone to join in protecting the unique habitats and species of our environment.”

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