Common tern on the Drava River gravel banks © Goran Šafarek

By combining different restoration actions, the project will create new dynamic river inhabitants, increase the number of gravel, sand and muddy bank sand improve the status of floodplain forests. This will increase the number, and improve the quality, of habitats for endangered breeding birds and rheophilic fish species. Besides, habitats for endangered plant species like the German tamarisk and the Dwarf cattail will be created. Lastly, the flood risk in the region will be reduced and new recreation areas will be created.

Expected results of restoration actions:

  • 41 hectare land acquired for river restoration;
  • 1000 meters of dynamic river banks restored and preserved;
  • 13 hectare of new dynamic river zones with gravel, sand and muddy banks created;
  • 14,5 kilometers of side-arms restored or newly created;
  • Quality of more than 300 hectare of floodplain forests improved;
  • Breeding population of endangered birds (e.g. little tern (Sterna albifrons) increased;
  • Human disturbance of river birds during breeding season (through information for visitors, placing of panels on breeding sites) reduced;
  • Knowledge of the Natura 2000 sites increased and awareness raising instruments established: e.g. information center, info points, nature educational corners, monitoring towers, communication and educational material and workshops;
  • Cross-border cooperation fostered (e.g. International Drava symposium) and new inter-sectoral river management approach strengthened.