Hrvatske vode

Works at Location C.1. Otok Virje

C1 Otok Virje

We would like to inform you that restoration work on the right branch of the Drava River near the village of Otok Virje is nearing completion, as part of the DRAVA LIFE project. As announced during the public event held last September in the Municipality of Cestica, the aim of this project is to improve water flow, give the river more space, restore natural habitats, and reduce flood risk. The restoration covers the section between river kilometers 312 and 314.

Why are parts of the vegetation and bank reinforcements being removed?
🔹 The Drava is a living river that depends on natural processes to breathe and regenerate. Currently, this river branch is filled with sediment and overgrown with vegetation, which restricts water flow and threatens rare plant and animal species.

What’s being done?
🔹 The branch is being deepened and excess vegetation removed to improve flow
🔹 Sections of artificial bank reinforcement are being removed to restore natural river dynamics
🔹 Riverbanks are being stabilized using bioengineering techniques
🔹 Excavated material is being reused to build access roads

These interventions will help make the Drava more natural and biodiverse, while also making the surrounding area safer from flooding and more enjoyable for recreation.

By enabling the river to regenerate on its own, we are creating new habitats for birds and other wildlife and improving flood resilience in both Croatia and Slovenia.

Thank you for your understanding!

 

Is the Return of Myricaria germanica to the Drava Possible?

At this stage, a definitive answer to the question posed in the title remains uncertain; however, based on prior reintroduction efforts, there is cautious optimism.

Myricaria germanica (German tamarisk) was once a common shrub on the gravel and sandbanks of the Drava River. However, due to extensive hydrotechnical interventions and subsequent alterations in habitat conditions, the species has disappeared from its natural sites along the river.

In response, a series of restoration activities aimed at re-establishing Myricaria germanica in its native habitat along the Drava River was initiated several years ago.

Monitoring of individuals planted in previous periods has led to the identification of micro-sites that appear to offer slightly more favorable conditions for the growth and survival of Myricaria germanica. In early March of this year, additional nursery-grown specimens—propagated at the Arboretum Opeka Secondary School in Marčan—were planted at these locations.

Unfortunately, the newly established plants face a range of threats in their new habitat, including unfavorable weather conditions, sudden fluctuations in water levels, sediment dynamics, herbivory by wild animals, and damage caused by irresponsible off-road vehicle use. It is therefore evident that, alongside careful site selection and management, a measure of luck will also be necessary for the success of the reintroduction effort.