Stara Drava near Varaždin Breathes Again: New Side Channel Opened
Water is flowing again in the restored “Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2)” side channel — Varaždin has gained its first major flowing side channel and a new natural haven on the edge of the city
Varaždin, 3 May 2026 — In the area of the City of Varaždin, downstream of “Cirkovečka” and upstream of the tip of the Drava basins, the new side channel “Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2)” has been opened. This is one of the most significant river restoration works on the Drava in recent times, developed through the award-winning and internationally recognised European project “DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management”. Varaždin has thereby gained a new natural haven along the Drava, while also improving its flood protection.
The value of the works is approximately 1.7 million euros including VAT, carried out by Hrvatske vode (Croatian Waters) through its regular maintenance programme with financial support from the Recovery and Resilience Facility. This is the result of an almost decade-long process, which included environmental procedures, public consultations, cross-border consultations and cooperation, the preparation of conceptual and detailed designs, and securing financing. Hrvatske vode, the Water Management Department (WMD) for the Mura and Upper Drava, carried out the works despite complex procedures, rising costs and demanding implementation, with the aim of restoring the natural processes of the Drava and creating a safer, more valuable and higher-quality riverside space for Varaždin. The former side channel had for years been cut off from the main river, with water entering mainly from the downstream side and only during higher water levels. Due to the very low flow (biological minimum) in Stara Drava, combined with sediment deposition and vegetation overgrowth, water no longer entered in sufficient quantities to maintain natural dynamics. The consequences were visible across the wider area: groundwater levels declined, riparian forests were affected by succession, the diversity of river habitats decreased, and the main Drava channel was subjected to increasing hydraulic pressure.
Why was vegetation removed?
The removal of vegetation, which was the most visible part of the works, was carried out exclusively along the route of the side channel and in the main Drava channel, opposite the Memorial Cross in the Drava Forest, where vegetation had over decades narrowed the river’s flow cross-section and encroached on former gravel bars and open banks. As Hrvatske vode emphasise, this was not forest exploitation, but rather the restoration of space that historically belonged to the river, alongside a reduction in hydraulic resistance and water levels during high flows, thereby alleviating pressure on the flood defence system, the right bank of the Drava, and existing infrastructure in the Varaždin area. Works being carried out in parallel in the Drava park-forest through the “InterACT Green” project are not part of the “Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2)” works, but a separate project for the improvement and revitalisation of selected parts of the park-forest.
New habitats for protected species
A particular value of this type of river restoration work lies in the creation of new habitats for strictly protected and target river species — birds (little ringed plover, kingfisher, great white egret, black stork), fish (asp) and mammals (otter). Through the shaping of steep sandy-silty banks within the side channel itself and along the left bank of the Drava, favourable conditions have been created for the sand martin (Riparia riparia), a swallow species that through DRAVA LIFE has become a symbol of a clean and dynamic Drava on the steep right bank at Libanovec near Đelekovec. The open gravel and sand bars created by vegetation removal will also benefit the little tern (Sternula albifrons), a species that requires quiet, sparsely vegetated river habitats inaccessible to people for nesting. It is also encouraging that the German tamarisk (Myricaria germanica), a critically endangered riparian plant that the DRAVA LIFE project team has been working for years to reintroduce to the natural habitats of the Drava, has taken hold on the restored Otok Virje (C.1) side channel.
Following the opening of the side channel, the entire area between the channel and the Drava, covering approximately 100 hectares, becomes significantly quieter and more suitable for wildlife. Crossing the side channel is no longer intended, and any crossing is possible solely at one’s own risk due to the possibility of increased flow through the Varaždin hydropower plant dam. The use of quad bikes, motorcycles and other motor vehicles, as well as the construction of new illegal structures in the wider floodplain area, will be strictly prohibited and monitored.
“This is a special moment for me, because the results of years of work are now visible right here, beside my Varaždin. We have returned part of the space and water to the Drava, and the city has gained a new side channel and natural space ideal for the development of river dynamics and fauna. It is proof that flood safety, nature restoration and a higher-quality riverside space can go hand in hand — if the river is approached thoughtfully and with a long-term perspective.”
— Igor Tošić, project manager, Hrvatske vode (Croatian Waters)
With the opening of the side channel, Varaždin has gained a new natural space and haven along the Drava: a place where water, natural dynamics and living ecosystems reconnect, while flood protection is simultaneously improved.
Photos Hrvatske vode
Sand Martin_(c) Goran Safarek
Đelekovec, April 2026 – After a remarkable journey of more than 6,000 kilometres from their wintering grounds in Central Africa, crossing the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea, Sand Martins (Riparia riparia) have returned to the banks of the Drava River. These tiny birds, weighing no more than 15 grams, are among the first harbingers of spring — and this year they have returned to encouraging news.
The colony at the Libanovec site near Đelekovec grew to a record 1,800 breeding pairs in 2025 — nearly 700 more than the 1,100 pairs recorded in 2018. At a time when sand martin populations across Europe are steadily declining, Đelekovec is becoming a powerful example of how nature can recover when rivers are given space to flow freely.
Photo Zdenko Kereša
Sand martins depend on steep riverbanks formed by natural erosion. When riverbanks are artificially reinforced or rivers lose their natural dynamics, sand martins lose their nesting sites — and many other species disappear with them. Within the UNESCO Five-Country Mura–Drava–Danube Biosphere Reserve, sand martin populations are declining as natural riverbanks disappear. The Libanovec colony on the Drava River downstream from Legrad stands out as a rare and important conservation success story and is now one of the most significant sand martin habitats in Croatia.
The birds that keep the skies above the Drava clean
The sand martin is Europe’s smallest swallow — measuring just 12 centimetres in length and weighing around 15 grams. Unlike other swallows, it does not build mud nests; instead, it digs nesting burrows up to 70 centimetres deep into steep riverbanks each year. A single sand martin family can consume up to 10,000 insects per day, most of them mosquitoes. Where sand martins nest, rivers are alive and healthy — their presence is one of the most important indicators of a well-preserved river ecosystem.
The Sand Martin is a strictly protected species under the Croatian Nature Protection Act (Official Gazette 80/13, 5/18, 14/19, 127/19, 155/23), the Ordinance on Strictly Protected Species (Official Gazette 144/13 and 73/16), the EU Birds Directive (Annex I), as well as the Bern Convention and the Bonn Convention.
Đelekovec: a community protecting its river
Photo Marko Lorenzo Blaslov
Declared Croatia’s first Sand Martin Village in 2024, Đelekovec has become an important reference point for the protection of this species in the region. The success of the Libanovec colony is the result of years of cooperation between the Municipality of Đelekovec, the Puhar family farm, Hrvatske vode, and WWF Austria — a partnership that shows nature conservation can coexist with farming and everyday community life.
“I am proud of this achievement in protecting our natural heritage along the Drava River. The return of the sand martins shows how much we can accomplish when a community protects its river and the nature it lives alongside.”
— Lara Samošćanec Kiš, Mayor of the Municipality of Đelekovec
Lara Samošćanec Kiš, Mayor of the Municipality of Đelekovec and Mrs. Puhar, Family farm Puhar, Photo Marko Horvat
Tanja Nikowitz, conservation expert at WWF Austria, added:
“We are eager to see whether this season will bring another record and how many breeding pairs will stay along the banks of the Drava this year. Đelekovec has shown that a local community can make a real difference in protecting natural values, and it stands as an important example for other communities within the UNESCO Five-Country Mura–Drava–Danube Biosphere Reserve. We hope that other municipalities along the Drava River will follow this example of good practice.”
Tanja Nikowitz, Photo Marko Horvat
How to help sand martins during the nesting season
The DRAVA LIFE project team and WWF Austria invite all visitors to the Drava River to respect the peace of steep sandy riverbanks during the nesting season, from April to July. Disturbance to the colony can cause birds to abandon their nests and may result in the loss of chicks.
Every visitor can help by following a few simple guidelines:
- Do not approach steep sandy riverbanks or climb and drive on them
- Observe the birds from a distance
- Keep drones, quad bikes, and off-lead dogs away from nesting colonies
At the Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2) site, works continue on the restoration of the side channel, which was designed and developed as part of the DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management project.
Vegetation and tree clearing along the route of the future channel, as well as on the area designated for depositing excavated sediment, has been completed.
C5, HV
After a brief pause caused by a snow episode, snowmelt, and increased precipitation last week, mechanical excavation has resumed. Works have currently progressed up to cross-section number 21, representing about 40% of the total planned channel length.
Excavation is being carried out in accordance with the project documentation, at elevation levels between 166.6 and 167.8 meters above sea level, designed for a water level with a 95% duration, with slope gradients of 1:2 and 1:4, which are flattened on the convex sides.
The remaining phases of the intervention, currently in the planning stage, will be innovative and based on the principles of Nature-based Solutions (NBS). This approach utilizes the river’s natural processes instead of traditional technical solutions. Such a method will be applied for the first time in Croatia on a river area of this complexity.
The completion of excavation works will depend on future hydrological and meteorological conditions, and the public will be timely informed about the progress of the next phases.
The latest drone footage from the site already provides a clear view of the scope of the intervention and the future appearance of the restored Stara Drava side channel.
Representatives of the DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management and LIFE RESTORE for MDD projects carried out a joint field visit to the restoration works at the “Stara Drava Varaždin (C.2)” side channel, one of the key river restoration measures along the Croatian stretch of the Drava River.
The intervention includes the restoration of a 2.56 km long side channel and improvements to river flow and retention capacity in the City of Varaždin area. The technical solution was developed during the DRAVA LIFE project (2015–2024), while construction is implemented by Croatian Waters, with a total investment value of EUR 1.67 million.
The restoration will enhance river connectivity, improve habitats for aquatic and floodplain species, and contribute to increased flood safety. The visit highlighted the importance of cooperation and knowledge exchange between LIFE projects working towards resilient and naturally functioning river systems.
C2_MP
C2 project
DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management has achieved outstanding recognition at the Project Management Awards 2025 in Croatia, one of the country’s most prestigious national competitions aligned with the standards of the International Project Management Association (IPMA).
The project was awarded 1st place in the category “Best Medium-Sized Project”, while the project manager received 1st place in the category “Best Young Project Manager”.
Implemented under the EU LIFE Programme (LIFE14 NAT/HR/000115), DRAVA LIFE is the largest river restoration project ever implemented in Croatia. The Evaluation Committee recognised the project for its excellence in governance, long-term impact, effective stakeholder engagement, and the delivery of measurable and lasting results.
In addition, DRAVA LIFE was selected among the top three finalists in the newly established category “Best Project for Contribution to Sustainability”, introduced in 2025. This recognition further confirms the project’s long-term relevance and its significant added value at the European Union level.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the entire project team, partners, and local communities along the Drava River for their dedication and collaboration. Project activities continue through After-LIFE actions and new EU-level initiatives, in close cooperation with CINEA – the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency.
Our thanks also go to IPMA Hrvatska – Croatian Association for Project Management, IPMA Young Crew Croatia, and the Evaluation Committee for this valuable recognition.
The DRAVA LIFE project – Integrated River Management – won 3rd place in this year’s competition for the Best County EU Project in Croatia, in the category Contribution to Cross-Border Cooperation.
The award was presented at the official ceremony for Best City and Best EU Project, organised in cooperation with Jutarnji list and the Croatian County Association. Koprivnica-Križevci County was recognised for its outstanding contribution to cross-border cooperation through the implementation of the DRAVA LIFE project.
The ceremony took place on 3 December 2025 in Šibenik, attended by the Prime Minister, representatives of ministries, members of Parliament, counties, cities, municipalities, institutions, and other distinguished guests.
This recognition confirms years of dedicated work on the restoration of the Drava River, the strengthening of cross-border cooperation, and the connection of institutions across the three counties covered by the project: Varaždin County, Koprivnica-Križevci County, and Virovitica-Podravina County.
Foto Hrvatske vode
On behalf of the DRAVA LIFE team, the award was received by representatives of Croatian Waters – Water Management Department for the Mura and Upper Drava in Varaždin, the project’s lead partner and coordinating institution.
Other project partners include the Association for Nature and Environmental Protection Zeleni Osijek, public institutions managing protected natural areas in Koprivnica-Križevci, Virovitica-Podravina and Varaždin counties, and WWF Austria.
Preparatory works nearing completion; excavation expected to begin in 10–14 days
At the Stara Drava Varaždin site, located in the left-bank inundation area (rkm 289–292), preparatory works are entering their final phase: larger trees have been removed from the future side-arm channel, access roads have been arranged, and thanks to the low water level of the Drava and stable, dry weather, work has been carried out daily.
The start of the main earthworks (sediment excavation) is expected in 10–14 days.
Areal View
What are we doing and why?
-
Opening and stabilising the inflow into the side arm to re-establish water flow.
-
Excavating a new and widening/deepening the existing channel (left bank) along a length of approx. 2.56 km, with an average bed width of ~13 m.
-
Removing part of the river sill (right bank) that obstructs the natural flow, in order to direct water into the side arm during higher water levels.
-
Sediment (estimated ~148,000 m³) will be deposited along the banks/inundation area and shaped to fit the landscape; if needed, it may also be used as material for dike reconstruction, with prior approval from the competent Ministry.
Expected positive impacts
-
Revitalised hydromorphology: refreshed water in the side arm, a more natural flow regime, and stimulated erosional processes.
-
Creation of new habitats: gravel bars, steep and muddy banks that will benefit fish, amphibians, and birds.
-
Ecological benefits: improved conditions in floodplain forests through raised groundwater levels and increased biodiversity.
-
Community benefits: a more orderly river area and contribution to flood-risk reduction through increased retention capacity.
Route of the future meandering channel
The latest drone photos already clearly show the emerging shape of the future side arm and the progress made in preparing the construction site.
The intervention is being carried out by Hrvatske vode (Croatian Waters) in cooperation with the relevant institutions and the local community. The project concept was developed within the DRAVA LIFE project. All works are carried out in compliance with environmental protection requirements and under expert supervision.
Representatives of the EU project DRAVA LIFE – Integrated River Management, implemented by Croatian Waters, participated in the international event LIFE Platform Meeting – Focus on Water Resilience Strategy, held on 14–15 October 2025 in Brussels and organised by CINEA (European Commission).
The meeting brought together leaders of 39 LIFE projects from 21 EU Member States, with the aim of exchanging experiences and showcasing solutions for implementing River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) across Europe, with a strong focus on water supply resilience and sustainable water resources management.
During the panel discussions and thematic workshops (Digitalisation & Innovation; Nature-Based Solutions/Nature Restoration), the DRAVA LIFE project presented its contribution to the application of digital tools for river restoration monitoring and planning – including UAV (drone) and satellite imagery, GIS analyses, and the development of a digital database supporting the implementation of the national RBMP and the new European Water Resilience Strategy. The project was also featured in the poster session.
DRAVA LIFE has been a pioneering example of integrated river management in Croatia and the wider region.
The project achieved numerous results, including:
🔹 acquisition of more than 50 ha of private land for river restoration
🔹 construction of the first initial river side arm and removal of water engineering structures disrupting natural flow
🔹 establishment of an Educational Water Centre at the confluence of the Mura and the Drava
🔹 designation of a Sand Martin ambassador village at the pilot site
🔹 publication of a comprehensive monograph on the Drava River
Even after the project’s formal completion, Croatian Waters and its partners continue to actively and responsibly implement activities — demonstrating that DRAVA LIFE remains a living example of good practice and collaboration.
By combining concrete restoration measures, digital monitoring, and long-term stewardship, DRAVA LIFE shows how European directives (Water, Floods, Habitats, Birds) can be translated into real results on the ground.
More about the event:
LIFE Platform Meeting – Focus on Water Resilience Strategy
LIFE: offering strategic solutions for Europe’s beleaguered river basins
DRAVA LIFE, @Marko Lorenzo Blaslov
Đelekovec, October 1, 2025 – This year, the steep Lubenovec riverbank on the Drava River has hosted as many as 1,800 breeding pairs of sand martins (Riparia riparia) – the highest number ever recorded in this part of the Drava.
Last year, Đelekovec was declared the first Sand Martin Village in Croatia, in recognition of the community’s long-standing efforts to protect this species. The steep sandy bank of Lubenovec has been attracting hundreds of breeding pairs for years, but this season the number reached a historic record.
This remarkable success is the result of cooperation between the Municipality of Đelekovec, the Puhar Family Farm, Croatian Waters, and WWF Austria, who together found a way to align agriculture with the preservation of natural riverbanks. The result is the creation of ideal nesting conditions for sand martins.
Why are sand martins important?
Sand martins are an important indicator of river ecosystem health and highly effective natural insect hunters – during the breeding season, a single bird can eat thousands of mosquitoes per day. Their presence contributes to biodiversity and natural insect control along the Drava.
In 2018, 1,100 pairs were recorded at the Lubenovec site, while this year the number increased by 700 pairs. This growth is significant for the survival of the species and gives hope for its recovery.
This positive result in Đelekovec contrasts with regional and global trends showing a decline in sand martin populations. Globally, the species is decreasing due to the loss of natural, dynamic river habitats such as steep sandy banks, which sand martins use to dig their tunnels up to 70 cm long.
For this reason, protecting the Lubenovec riverbank and similar habitats is extremely important, while legal protection of the species remains key to its long-term survival.
Support from the local community is essential
This year’s Sand Martin Day, held on June 9, brought together residents, visitors, and researchers in educational workshops organized by the Vendi Association. The Đelekovec Primary School dedicated the entire school year to studying sand martins, integrating the topic into nearly all school subjects.
“I’m proud of this success in preserving our natural heritage along the Drava. The return of sand martins shows the power of awareness and dedication within our community. I invite other municipalities to join us in similar initiatives,” said Lara Samošćanec Kiš, Mayor of Đelekovec.
“These birds are a sign of a healthy river. The successful colony in Đelekovec shows that when we give space back to the river and its banks, nature restores itself,” said Arno Mohl, nature conservation expert from WWF Austria. “Seeing 1,800 pairs today is proof that practical conservation measures work. Restoring river dynamics, improving habitats, and raising awareness benefit both nature and people.”
Data on this year’s number of breeding pairs were collected by ornithologists Ivan Grlica and Ivan Darko Grlica.
