Today is April 22—Earth Day. To mark this occasion, we have decided to take action for our planet at a place where we can make a difference. Therefore, we are launching a petition today to save the Danube’s inland delta, the largest wetland system in Slovakia.
The Danube’s inland delta is a remnant of the river’s branch system, bordered by the Danube River (in its original riverbed) and an artificial inlet canal leading to the Gabčíkovo Dam. This precious area has been drastically changed by the construction of the waterworks, and since then, it has depended on the amount of water released into it according to the Operational Rules of the Gabčíkovo Dam
This operational regulation governs the functioning of the Gabčíkovo Dam as well as the flow rates in the branch system. Although this regulation is updated frequently, all updates to date have only resulted in a gradual reduction of flows into the branch system. The facility was designed for a capacity of 234 m³/s; however, such a volume of water has never flowed through it. In 2000, the flow rate for the simulated flood was set at 165 m³/s. By 2015, it was reduced to a maximum of 90 m³/s. Currently, the operational regulation only accounts for a maximum flow rate of 60 m³/s. However, this amount of water is insufficient to overflow the riverbed of the branches and ensure flooding of the adjacent floodplain forest. In the current operational regulation the term “simulated flood” has been replaced with “increased flow.” These changes occurred without any scientific ecological justification and were made solely at the discretion of the operator.
Due to these changes, the branch system is experiencing a water shortage and a lack of dynamic flow.During the winter, only a constant flow of 20 m³/s enters the branch system, while in the summer, it increases to 30 m³/s. This amount represents less than 1.5% of the water flowing through the Danube.
Through this petition, we are reaching out to the Minister of the Environment of the Slovak Republic, requesting changes to the temporary operational regulation for the Gabčíkovo-Nagymaros Waterworks System in Slovakia. Additionally, we urge that the last remnant of the Danube’s inland delta in our country receive the protection it deserves. We strongly oppose the current approach of the state regarding the management of our most significant wetland system and the handling of water resources within it. It is crucial that we take action to preserve this vital ecosystem for future generations.
At BROZ, we support the use of the Danube’s water for electricity production, but we believe it must be done responsibly. It is essential to ensure that floodplain ecosystems within the branch system are preserved alongside energy generation. Unfortunately, the current flow rates are inadequate to maintain and protect these vital natural resources. Given the escalating impacts of climate change, where the existence of wetlands is crucial for mitigation efforts, the actions of the responsible authorities are simply unacceptable. We advocate for a balanced approach that prioritizes both energy needs and environmental preservation.
To mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the Danube region and its residents, preserving and restoring existing ecosystems is vital. Wetlands and floodplain forests play a crucial role in capturing CO2 from the atmosphere while offering protection against drought and flooding by retaining water within the landscape. Ecosystem restoration is one of the key strategies in combating climate change. As such, revitalizing the Danube’s branch system should be a top priority for the authorities.
The Danube’s inland delta is part of the Protected Landscape Area of Dunajské luhy which encompasses several small-scale protected areas, such as the Foráš Nature Reserve, the National Nature Reserve Ostrov orliaka morského (Island of white-tailed eagle), and the Kráľovská lúka Natural Monument. This area is also designated as a Site of Community Importance and a Special Protection Area for birds.
In summary, this area holds international significance and is protected under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. The Danube’s inland delta is also a site with rare habitats and species, with the European Union taking a special interest in the protection of some of these, classifying them as priority for conservation efforts.
You can find the full text of the petition at this link, where you can also show your support: