Works at Location C.1. 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!