Hidden camera by the nest of the White-tailed eagle

Hidden nest camera has recorded a couple of White-tailed eagles

Project title: Restoration and management of Danube floodplain habitats
Project sector: LIFE+, Nature and Biodiversity
Projektový acronym: LIFE Danube floodplains
Project code: LIFE14 NAT/SK/001306
Expected start date: 01/08/2015
Expected end date:31/01/2022

Total project budget : 5 999 420 € (60 % EU financial contribution – 3 599 651 € , Programme LIFE+)

 

Coordinating beneficiary: 

Regional Association for Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development (Bratislavské regionálne ochranárske združenie) (Slovakia)

Project partners:

–       Water management construction, state enterprize (Vodohospodárska Výstavba, š.p.) (Slovakia)

–       Water research institute (Výskumný ústav vodného hospodárstva) (Slovakia)

–       NAtional Forest Centre (Národné lesnícke centrum) (Slovakia)

–       Duna – Ipoly National Park Directorate (Hungary)

 

    Main results of the project are – reconstruction or   technical objects in a branch system , like  small barriers, , culverts, inlets, outlets, etc. All  measures will be prepared in close cooperation with project partners – Water research institute and Water management construction, state enterprise, and other stakeholders (for example SVP – State water management company)

Expected results:

– Minimum 5 technical facilities in branches will be reconstructed or built, so that to achieve the greatest environmental benefit (enough water and suitable water regime).

–   Water regime will be improved on 1850 ha in the river Danube branch system.

–  At least two insulated side branches will be reconnected to the Danube.

– Branches will be restored to its full length of 4500 m (various barriers – deposits, residue    extraction, etc., which prevent the flow of water will be removed).

–  At least 57,500 native trees will be planted.

– River branches  and wetlands ,revitalized by water, will be able to fix CO2 from the atmosphere, thus reducing the impacts of climate change (return of the  investment thus restored wetlands, is, according to expert estimates, 100 times higher comparing to common  mitigation measures focused to reduce the impact of climate change).

Conservation status of rare species of plants, animals and habitats of floodplain forests and wetlands in the project area (belonging to the Natura 2000 network), will be improved, also flood protection will be improved.

Such a large project has not been implemented in Slovakia yet, and it will serve as a model for other similar projects in the future.

Main project objectives:

The project objective is to restore the key natural habitats of Danube floodplains and to introduce sound sustainable management. Habitat restoration will be achieved by improvement of water regime in the vast river branch system and by direct interventions to secure favourable conservation status of targeted habitats.

Specific objectives are:

1. to optimize water level and distribution of water within the Danube river branch system and in Danube floodplains;
2.  to restore water regime of selected disturbed localities;
3.  to restore targeted habitat types and to improve their conservation status
4. to increase biodiversity of floodplain forest habitats, production potential and ecosystem services of forest management;
5.  to improve the conservation status of the last remaining fragments of non-forest habitats within project site, especially alluvial meadows and to set-up their sustainable regular management;
6.  to support practical implementation of the EU Habitats Directive and NATURA 2000 network
7. to raise awareness on importance of  floodplains restoration and to disseminate knowledge for replication and transfer of results and of best practices.

The project activities are defined according to LIFE requirements. The outcomes will be updated regularly on the project website. 

A. Preparatory actions, elaboration of management plans and/or of action plans

A.1: Hydrological model on flow capacity and longitudinal continuity of Danube river branch system (VUVH)

Expected results: Final proposal of restoration measures including specification of basic parameters.

A.2: Expert study on restoration of river branches lateral connectivity and wetlands water regime (VUVH)

Elaboration of final expert study that will include all restoration measures including their basic parameters.

A.3: Technical documentation (VVB)

Technical set of project documentation elaborated for realisation of conservation actions C.1 and C.2. Documentation for obtaining construction permit elaborated, submitted to responsible authorities and approved. All necessary permissions and agreements according to Act No. 543/2002 on Nature and Landscape Protection as amended provided.

A.4: Identification of the sources of autochthonous gene pool, reproduction of these species and elaboration of activities draft serving on forest ecosystems conservation (NLC, BROZ, DINPD)

Established a gene pool of 200 DNA-verified Black poplar genotypes with varietal identity and GIS records on Hungarian side.

Individual trees/ approved stands will be indentified within Slovak part of project site as source of reproduction material.

Number of individual trees or areas with approved stands will be nominated to the National Register and National list LRM.

The expert study proposed concrete restoration measures to improve conservation status of targeted forest habitats will be elaborated.

A.5: Expert study on lowland meadows and non-forest habitats restoration (BROZ)

An expert study on restoration of lowland meadows and non-forest habitats elaborated. At least 2 public discussions with stakeholders and/or experts on the study organized.

 

B. Purchase/lease of land and/or compensation payments for use rights

B.1: Purchase / lease of land (BROZ)

Purchased or leased land in order restoration activities could be preformed.

 

C. Concrete conservation actions

C.1: Restoration of the flow capacity and longitudinal continuity of Danube branch system (BROZ, VVB)

Action will be implemented in SCI Dunajské luhy. Minimum of 5 technical objects will be created or reconstructed on the selected locations at the existing fixed weirs, where maximal ecological impacts can be achieved for largest sections of the river branch system. Water regime of the area of 1850 ha improved. Updated “Operating manual” with new technical measures and maximising ecological benefits of the restored longitudinal continuity of the river branch system. Conservation status of the targeted species will be improved and their populations will be enhanced.

As negotiations with the competent authorities to amend the Operating manual were not successful, on 21. April 2020, a petition entitled “FOR WATER FOR THE LIFE OF THE INLAND DANUBE DELTA” was launched, signed by 11,603 supporters. The petition was submitted to the Minister of the Environment on 14. August 2020. Negotiations with the competent authorities on a change in the Operating manual will follow.

C.2: Restoration of river branches lateral connectivity and water regime of wetlands (VVB, BROZ)

Two major river branches will be restored in their whole length. This includes restoration of their water regime a river dynamics. It is expected that minimum of 4 500 m of river branches will be re-connected with long-term perspective for sustainable natural restoration of breeding habitats for target species. Migration barriers for fish and other water organisms will be removed. Due to restricted access to some places after restoration also significant decrease of human disturbance will be achieved on 135 ha.Four wetlands will be restored with the total area expected of 37 ha.

Conservation status of the targeted species will be improved and their populations will be enhanced.

C.3: Establishment of the biological base and production of planting material of the native tree species (NLC, DINPD)

Established archive of forest tree genetic resources of the Danube floodplain in Slovakia. Within the repository of genetic resources of NLC, important species will be represented in a minimum of 20 pieces of each specimen. Together 45,000 pieces of seedlings for reforestation needs will be grown during the project implementation. A gene pool will be established by DINPD on 3.8 ha area. The number of genotypes in Hungary preserved in the tree-shaped collection is at least 400.

C.4: Restoration of autochthonous tree species composition and increase of the forest stands biodiversity (BROZ, DINPD)

Planting of 57 500 pcs. of native tree species on the total area of 45 ha. 45 000 pcs of trees planted within Slovak part of project site. Invasive tree and plant species removed on the area of 40 ha o Slovak project side. After planting care of young trees realized. In Hungary on Háros Island: Clearance of  Negundo aceroides, Fallopia japonica, Solidago sp. from at least 7 hectares.Restoration of the alluvial forest (i.e. several smaller spots) on a total area of minimum 3.5 hectares. Construction of protective game wire fence in 1,550 m total length.Waste clean-up and removal of ammunition: 5 ha The removal of ammunition is necessary to provide for the safety of workers and researchers. The 560 m long concrete fence that runs in the middle of the alluvial forest, will be removed. By cutting its dikes in two places we assure better and more frequent flooding of the enclosed area.

C.5: Restoration of lowland meadows and non-forest habitats (BROZ)

Overall 84 ha of grasslands restored and their regular management initiated. At least 150 pollard willows be restored. Overall 200 pcs of new pollard willows will be planted.

 

D. Monitoring of the impact of the project actions (obligatory)

D.1: Hydrological and hydrobiological monitoring (VUVH

Compilation of database of hydrological, morphological, climatological, biological and chemical data for the state before and after implementation of measures. Assessment of present abiotic and biotic state of the branch systems in the project areas. Assessment of effectiveness of proposed measures.

D.2: Monitoring of biota (BROZ, DINPD)

Database will be created with estimated several thousands of records. At the end of the project final monitoring report with the results will be provided to give feedback to the implementation of the concrete conservation actions. Scientific information about selected groups of biota from the project site will be provided via annual reports. Final report will compare situation of selected taxa before onset of C actions and post-restoration situation.

D.3: Monitoring of socio-economic impacts of the project (BROZ)

One socio- economic report will be completed in a final phases to give feedback to the implementation of the concrete conservation actions.

D.4: Monitoring of the impact on the ecosystem functions (BROZ)

The ecosystem functions will be characterized in the beginning of the project, after previous-monitoring of project sites and all relevant monitoring (of biota, hydrobiological monitoring etc.).  From all possibilities, the relevant ecosystem functions for each project site will be selected and those will be subsequently monitored.

Also the relevant ecosystem functions for specific habitats will be selected and monitored. The statement of the ecosystem in a relation to ecosystem functions will be measured in the beginning and in the end of the project.

D.5:  Monitoring of dissemination of activities (BROZ)

The monitored results will be processed into excel tables and graphics, where relevant feedback progress will be clear. The percentage of questionnaire’s and quizes’s successful responses will be measured at the beginning and in the end of activities. The results and graphics will be delivered with final report, because the monitoring activities will last till the end of the project.

 

E. Public awareness and dissemination of results (obligatory)

E.1: Project website (BROZ)

The project web page developed, maintained and promoted during the whole project period in three languages – EN, SK, HU.

E.2: Meetings with stakeholders and study visits (BROZ)

Constant communication with stakeholders, at least 24 meetings with stakeholders will be organized. In average each meeting attended by 5 representatives, 2 two-day study visits for cca. 30 people each will be organized.

E.3: Publication of information, educational and promotional materials (BROZ, NLC, DINPD)

Following information, educational and promotion materials will be produced and disseminated: leaflets, expert brochures – 3 types/ series together, 7 500 copies publication ‘Discover Duna-Ipoly Natural Park’, Cincer newspaper, DINPD promotional materials (textile bags, pens, register books, calendar, mugs), stickers, calendar, magnets,  T-shirts, cups, pens,  visitors centre facility improvement.

E.4: Excursions / tours for students, teachers and public, guid trainings (BROZ, DINPD)

10 guided excursions for students (together  200 people expected), and 5 guided excursions for the public (together 50 people expected). Two 5-days trainings of guides will take place. DINPD. Five 1-day demonstration tours for teachers will take place. The number of new guides trained during the project: 20 people. The number of guides receiving further training during the project: 20 people. The number of people participating on guided tours during the project: 4000 people.

E.5: Promotion of project on conferences and in media (BROZ, VUVH, NLC)

Project presented on at least 13 conferences, 4 press conferences organized, 5 press releases distributed, 30 articles covering the project published, 5 radio interviews broadcasted, 10 TV shots broadcasted.

E.6: Presentations for school and public, interactive educational expositions (BROZ, DINPD)

10 presentations for students (together 200 people expected), 5 presentations for the public (together 100 people expected).The visit of stabile exhibition by 10 institutions/ organizations/ schools (Minimum of 3 500 visitors of stabile exhibition) – BROZ

Established exhibition by DINPD (overall 5 000 visitors during project duration).

E.7: Camping in the nature (BROZ)

Twenty 5-days camps for overall 240 children will take place.

E.8: Final conference (BROZ)

At least 40 participants from Slovakia and neighbouring countries attending the event. At least 5 media representatives attending press conference. Project’s results disseminated through at least 5 media outputs (e.g. online and printed articles, TV and radio interviews).

E.9: Networking with other projects and institutions (BROZ)

Six three day visits for 3-5 project personnel or key stakeholders will be organized and implemented. These will lead to visit several places where management of natural areas meets with similar issues and where interested parties can discuss e.g. sheep grazing management, natural tree species planting, use of natural mixtures seeds, and restoration of grasslands, wetlands. Such study visits will lead to similar projects in Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Hungary or Poland.

E.10: Organization of family day (DINPD)

6 family days, expected 500 guests per event, i.e. a total of 3000 people in six years.

E.11: Notice boards (BROZ)

Installation of 10 notice boards. Installation of small notice boards according need of actions implemented in field.

E.12: Layman report (BROZ)

Layman’s report produced.

 

F. Project management and monitoring of project progress (obligatory)

F.1: Project management (BROZ)

The sound implementation of the project ensured. Project staff employed. First progress report, three other progress reports, midterm report and final report submitted.

F.2: Project bookkeeping and financial management (BROZ, DINPD)

Transparent recording of project finances (expenditures + incomes).

F.3. Project auditing (BROZ)

Audit reports confirming transparent and accurate recording of project finances (expenditures + incomes). Final report on the project audit will be enclosed to the final technical report.

F.4: After-LIFE project conservation plan (BROZ)

An After-LIFE conservation plan  written after the project will finished will include the maintenance activities and responsible organisations.

Project Results by February 22, 2024:

1. Preparatory actions

A.1: Study on flow capacity and longitudinal continuity of Danube branch system, including a hydrodynamic model (WRI)

A physical model of a fraction of the Danube branch system was built in the WRI technical laboratories. All field measurements necessary to create a digital model of the branch system were executed, the calculations were completed and the digital model is in working order and capable to be used in selecting the suitable measures for the study.

The study containing suggestions of restoration measures within C1 Activity is ready.

A.2: Expert study on restoration of lateral connectivity between Danube branches and the Danube main stream and water regime improvement in wetlands (WRI)

All field monitorings necessary in order to set-up 1D and 2D hydrodynamic models, as well as model simulations of different water levels scenarios have been carried out.

The study containing suggestions of restoration measures within C2 Activity is ready.

A.3: Technical documentation (VVB)

Technical documentation for the partial branch restoration in Kráľovská lúka was completed (2015).

Technical documentation for restorations planned in C1 & C2 Activities is in progress.

For C1 Activity: Documentation for restoration of water flow in side arms near Vojčianske rameno branch – after the weir A, was completed in March 2020. Project documentation for reconstruction of the weir D2a on the D line of the Danube branch system was completed in spring 2022.

Related to C2 Activity: Works were carried out in order to secure the missing dampers needed to completely block off the B line of the branch system. This Activity will be executed by contractors. In 05 – 06/2021, the request and conditions were specified in order to procure the technical documentation, production and supply of 2 missing dampers.

Technical documentation was elaborated in order to suggest the reconstruction of Bst. weir, E3 weir, complex restoration of hydrological regimen of Kráľovská lúka locality and reconstruction of L4 branch of Veľkolélske side arm. 

All necessary technical documentations are ready and this activity is completed.

A.4: Identification of autochthonous gene pool sources, species reproduction; processing the activity proposal aimed on forest ecosystems conservation (NFC, BROZ, DINPD)

Gene pool consisting of 200 DNA genotypes of black poplars in the Hungarian part has been already completed (DINPD).

Identification of autochthonous gene pool sources on the Slovak part has been completed. More than 150 individual trees have been identified near Danube, e.g. black poplars, willows (crack willow), narrow-leafed ashes, small-leaved limes, apple trees, pear trees, mulberry trees, common oaks. The data have been processed and included in a report, seeds and other reproductive material has been collected, and used to grow seedlings in the NFC field station.

The Activity is completed.

A.5: Expert study on lowland meadows and non-forest habitats restoration (BROZ)

The study on lowland meadows and non-forest habitats restoration was completed in 2016. At the moment, restoration works based on the study are being carried out in lowland meadows – under C5 Activity.

The Activity is completed.

1. Land purchase/Long-term rental

B.1: Land purchase/rental (BROZ)

The plots have been rented or purchased for the purposes of native alluvial ecosystems conservation under C Activities, including water bodies, grasslands, forest plots, arable land, and other.

 

Land purchased as of today – 69.56 ha.

Land rented as of today – 351.67 ha.

1. Specific conservation activities

C.1: Restoration of flow capacity and longitudinal continuity of Danube branch system (BROZ, VVB)

At the beginning, it was necessary to modify the Operation Manual valid in the Gabčíkovo hydroelectric dam. The changes aim to get more water into the Danube branch system and to allow for regular floods, as they used to happen prior to the construction of the hydroelectric dam.

On April 21, 2022, a petition “ZA VODU PRE ŽIVOT VNÚTROZEMSKEJ DELTY DUNAJA” was published. It got 11,603 signatures. On August 14, 2020, the petition was submitted to the Minister of Environment, followed by negotiations on the Operation Manual modifications with respective authorities.

On May 15 – 17, 2020, one simulated flood was carried out, with maximum flow rate of 90 m3/s.

In 2021, a spring simulated flood was done in April (34 days), a summer flood was done in May (15 days). 

In 2022, simulated floods in spring and summer were merged into one, during May and June (41 days), with maximum flow rate of 90 m3/s.

For a long time the planned flow rate of 120 m3/s have not been achieved, mainly due to security concerns – There are buildings in the subject area, many of them built illegally. Therefore, the State Secretary at Ministry of Environment of the SR began to address the issue.

In 2022, negotiations on new Operation Manual Vol. XII were open. They intended to achieve the desired flow rate during the simulated floods.

WRI experts installed remote probes on all weirs in the branch system (2022) to monitor the water levels during the flood and to be able to keep the weirs open for transit (online access: https://app.meratch.com/w/vuvh/river-system). Moreover, they created an app that calculates the water levels based on the flow rate on inputs and outlets (number of openings on a weir). 

In 2023 spring simulated flood was carried out between 26.3.-28.4. and the summer one in a period of 15.7.-1.8., while in summer the higher flow of  120 m3/s was tested for the first time.  

Between August 2023 and January 2024 the lower Vojčianske side arm was restored – water regime was renewed together on 3,7 km. On two weirs, the insufficient tube culverts were replaced by frame culverts of higher capacity, narrow sections of side arm were expanded, a ford was constructed in order to access newly created island and locally small pits were dredged on the bottom of the branch for wintering of fish.
At the end of 2023 weirs D2a and E3 were reconstructed in order to improve flow capacity as well as migration potential for fish. 

Weir Bst. will be reconstructed in spring 2024, and so will be the outlet object of material pit near Šulianske lake.

C.2: Restoration of lateral connectivity of the branches and water regime in wetlands (BROZ, VVB)

May 2016 – Kráľovská Lúka branch near Baka village – one section done, length approx. 190 m – the next part will follow.

In May/April 2017 – wetlands in branch system near Dobrohošť and Vojka nad Dunajom villages were restored and expanded with the following results: the dry branch was restored in total length of 430 m; the water flow was restored and the time when 440 m of the branch is filled with water, was extended (previously 6 months, now all year round); 0,95 ha of periodic wetlands were restored (Dobrohošť, Kyselica), flooding potential in 16 ha of hardwood and softwood alluvial forests was restored (Dobrohošť, Kyselica).

In February/March 2018, wetlands on Veľkolélsky ostrov island were restored with the following results: 2 deep permanent wetlands with total area of 0,6 ha were created. One larger periodic wetland and 6 smaller periodic wetlands were created on the island. If the Danube flow rate is above 3000 m3/s, these are filled with water from a canal. The total area of the wetlands is 40.89 ha (the map of floods).

Other restoration works are being prepared in collaboration with the VVB.

Photographs can be found in an article.

Until today, 2010 m of branches have been restored.

64.09 ha of wetlands have been restored (5 permanent wetlands with total area of 1.1 ha, and 7 periodic wetlands with total area of 62.99 ha). 

In December 2023 the construction site of Kráľovská lúka was hended out to the contractor in order to restore the water regime of an old river branch.  

C.3: Preparation of planting material and founding of the biological station (NFC, DINPD)

A gene pool registry of native forest tree species was created in Dunajské luhy, in the NFC field station.

The following numbers of tree seedlings were grown in order to be planted on the forest plots:

Autumn 2016	800 ind. Populus nigra, 450 ind. Tilia cordata – 1,250 individuals in total
Autumn 2017	70 ind. Quercus robur, 3,000 ind. Populus nigra, 200 ind. Malus silvestris, 200 ind. Pyrus communis, 350 ind. Tilia cordata – 3,820 individuals in total
Autumn 2018	800 ind. Populus alba, 4,500 ind. Populus nigra, 400 ind. Ulmus laevis, 300 ind. Malus silvestris, 1,000 ind. Quercus robur, 120 ind. Tilia cordata – 7,120 individuals in total
Autumn 2019	100 ind. Populus alba, 1,800 ind. Populus nigra, 1,100 ind. Ulmus laevis, 225 ind. Malus silvestris, 2,000 ind. Quercus robur, 100 ind. Fraxinus excelsior, 225 ind. Pyrus pyraster – 5,550 individuals in total
Autumn 2020	9,150 ind. Populus alba, 9,400 ind. Populus nigra, 4,000 ind. Quercus robur, 850 ind. Salix alba, 350 ind. Malus sylvestris, 75 ind. Pyrus pyraster, 75 ind. bird cherry Padus avium, 15 ind. hawthorn Crataegus sp. –  23,915 individuals in total
Autumn 2021	13,500 ind. Populus nigra, 5,500 ind. Populus alba, 1,300 ind. Salix alba, 48 ind. Quercus robur, 40 ind. crab apple tree, 297 ind. Crataegus monogyna, 180 ind. Alnus glutinosa, 20 ind. Pyrus communis –  20,885 individuals in total
Autumn 2022 and 2023	1600 ind. Populus nigra, 1350 ind. Populus alba, 600 ind. Salix alba, 500 ind. Quercus robur, 100 ind. Fraxinus excelsior,100 ind. Ulmus laevis, 300 ind. Padus avium, 200 ind. Pyrus communis, 100 ind. Malus silvestris – 4850 ind. in total
Total	67 390 ind.

 

DINPD: They planted 1 ha of Populus nigra in Dejtár village (HU). An official Populus nigra nursery was established. In March 2021, 375 cuttings of 43 different certified Populus nigra genotypes from the Gemenc State Forestry were planted in Dejtár village. In March 2021, 2,000 Populus nigra cuttings of more than 100 different genotypes of pre-selected mother trees were collected, and placed in the official tree nursery of Ipoly Erdő State Forestry, followed by 470 more in 2022. At the moment, the gene collection is under maintenance. In December 2020, 6,000 native trees were planted on 2.1 ha, on the Rácalmás island (HU). Every other row was planted in. The remaining rows were filled with Populus nigra in the spring – 3,500 cuttings of 49 different certified genotypes from the Gemenc State Forestry, in Tolna (HU) were planted in March 2021. Currently, the entire area of 3.6 ha is completely planted in. Native tree species typical for 91E0 habitat take up half of the area, the other half is filled with 86 different genotypes of Populus nigra. 

Trees planted in 2021 by DINPI were officially certified. Rooting in 2022 was not successful. In March 2023, 648 individuals of 32 genotypes purchased from Gemenc Forestry were planted in Dejtár. DINPI collected Populus nigra cuttings from determined donor trees. Cuttings were transmitted to a nursery. 791 shoots from 64 individual genotypes secured 1916 cuttings out of them. Rooting was successful, as 917 individuals of 57 genotypes are still alive. In Rácálmás extra plantation was necessary (12/2022: 1000 pcs of Acer platanoides, 1000 pcs of Ulmus leavis; 03/2023: 3000 pcs of 34 genotypes of Black poplar) in order to fully finish the action.

C.4: Forest restoration by planting autochthonous tree species & Biodiversity improvements in forest growths (BROZ, DINPD)

The total number of seedlings planted in Slovakia under this Activity is 59,400 individuals of different tree species (black poplars, white poplars, small-leaved limes, common oaks, crab apple trees, European white elms, white willows, hawthorns, bird cherries). 

After planting care is carried out regularly on 39 ha.

Invasive plants were removed from the total area of 113.67 ha. 

DINPD:

Negundo aceroides, Fallopia japonica, Solidago sp. are being removed from 10 ha area on the Háros island in Hungary. In January 2021 and subsequently in November 2023, 534.28 t of waste was removed for the Háros island. On the cleaned locality seedlings were planted.

Invasive plant Fallopia x bohemica is still being removed. After planting care is being carried out. A new 0.1 ha plantation was established on Hunyadi island in Hungary. It consists of Hungarian ashes Fraxinus angustifolia ssp. pannonica, European white elms Ulmus laevis, and common oaks Quercus robur. In total, more than 14,500 trees were planted.

DINPD provides the after-planting care. It includes application of nature-friendly animal repellents instead of fences, which prevents the trees from being gnawed on.

 

C.5: Restoration of lowland meadows and non-forest habitats (BROZ)

This Activity started in March 2017. Approx. 23 ha of water-soaked fields in SAC Čiližské močiare near Kľúčovec village were grassed over in collaboration with the local agricultural cooperative.

In December 2017, restoration works were carried out on lowland meadows in NNR Apálsky ostrov in SAC Dolnovážske luhy near Komárno: On November 24, 2017, a gate arm to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering was installed. Afterwards, the meadow was partially mulched – approx. 3.8 ha (advance growths removed). The works continued in August 2018, including further mulching. In 2019, 5.5 ha of meadows were mowed.

In spring 2018, 63 willows were planted on Veľkolélsky ostrov island, along both banks of a periodically flooded branch. Only 12 willows survived the dry and hot summer of 2018. Additionally, 20 (2018), 104 (2021) and 200 pollard willow trees (winter 2021/22, with help of volunteers) were planted.

Moreover, 110 willow trees were pollarded on Veľkolélsky ostrov island in 2019, under the supervision of an arborist. In spring 2020, 103 willows were pollarded in Bodíky village, and 20 on Apálsky ostrov island. In 2021, 80 willows were pollarded in Bodíky village and 39 willows on Veľkolélsky ostrov island. Inspired by the project 2 willows were also pollared by a local  in farmer Dobrohošť and 12 more in Bodíky in 2023.

The total area of restored meadow ecosystems is 83.7 ha. The traditional grazing now exists on 8.1 ha in Bodíky village, and on 21.1 ha on Veľkolélsky ostrov island. In 2023 grazing was restored also on Apálsky Island on 26 ha.

1. Monitoring of the impact of project activities

D.1: Hydromorphological and hydrobiological monitoring (WRI)

The initial hydromorphological and hydrobiological monitoring has been carried out. It is a base for the A1 Activity and for ecosystem conditions comparison needed prior to C Activities. The monitoring report has been completed.

Collection and processing of data from temporary limnigraph stations (for surface water, underground water, all weirs), regular probe check-ups and maintenance, levelling, installation of all probes in the spring (they must be removed for the winter to prevent freezing) are in progress. In connection with the simulated floods, the following works are in progress:

• creating the time schedule for simulated floods (flow rates rising and dropping, expected water levels)
• regular meetings of WRI, The State Nature Conservancy, BROZ, VVB, SWME representatives
• proposal of damper openings pre- and after flood setup based on models (the setup affects the water levels and flood extent, taking into consideration given limitations)
• monitoring of water levels in individual sections, for different flow rates up to max. 120 m3/s
• outlets and critical points field check-up due to concerns that water would leave the bed nearby the holiday houses (often illegal ones, or not built according to the rules applied in flood zones)
• stream load sampling (fine materials) from all sections – in order to determine the stream load concentration for different flow rates (60, 90, 120 m3/s) – the samples were analysed in WRI laboratories
• a report for VVB on flood progress on behalf of all parties involved (The State Nature Conservancy, BROZ, WRI, SWME)

 

D.2: Monitoring of biota (BROZ, DINPD)

Biota – birds – was monitored in Hungary.

In Slovakia, amphibians, land plants, aquatic plants and habitats were monitored in 2017, 2018, and 2019. In 2019, dragonflies, beetles, spiders and molluscs (Desmoulin’s whorl snail) were monitored, as well. On the top of that, pollinators have been monitored since 2020.

During 2021 and 2022, the monitoring of target species and populations continued (amphibians, beetles, dragonflies, pollinators, spiders, and molluscs). 

To this abovementioned survey in 2023 also an ichthyological monitoring was added and selected types of monitoring will be held also in the 2024 season (amphibians, insects, fish and botanical survey).

D.3: Monitoring of socio-economic impact of the project (BROZ)

In 2017, a questionnaire survey was carried out. The first report was submitted. The second report was submitted in 2019.

The final report was elaborated at the end of 2023. The socio-economic survey declared a highly positive attitude of the public towards the protection of the environment, nature and the landscape as such in connection with the implemented project activities in the municipalities in which the survey (and the project as a whole) was implemented.

D.4: Monitoring of impact of the project on ecosystem functions (BROZ)

The 2019 monitoring report was submitted in 2020.

D.5: Monitoring of impact of information activities under the project (BROZ)

This Activity is carried out via questionnaires, website traffic monitoring, FB page monitoring, radio broadcastings ratings, etc.

1. Activities to raise awareness and spread information about project goals

E.1: Project website (BROZ)

Project website exists in three languages – English, Slovak, Hungarian, and it is updated regularly.

E.2: Stakeholders meetings and study trips (BROZ)

From the beginning of the project, 33 official meetings were held with the stakeholders (incl. attendance lists; 233 participants in total) and multiple unofficial meetings.

E.3: Information publishing, educational and promo materials (BROZ, NFC, DINPD)

BROZ:

Project logo: Logo finalized in November 2015.

Stickers and magnets with the logo: June 2016. 

Stickers with historical pictures of flooded land and rare plants and animals – spring 2017.

Leaflet about project activities – October 2017. It is available on the project website.

Pens – ready. In three languages.

Mugs – ready. Handmade, with the project logo.

Equipment for the Visitor centre in Veľký Lél was purchased; it serves camps under E.7. Activity, too.

Gazebo for visitors built in Veľký Lél in August 2017.

Man, women and children T-shirts made of organic cotton, with mandala detail, are ready.

2019 and 2020 calendars were printed on recycled paper.

The leaflet on Veľkolélsky ostrov island was printed on recycled paper.

The storybook The Stories of meadows (SK: Príbehy z lúk a mokradí) and wetlands was published in November 2021.

In 2022, T-shirts in new colours were made, tank-tops were added.

In 2022, magnets in new designs were made (900 pcs in total).

2022 wall calendar was published, this time with the Veľkolélsky ostrov island theme.

Leaflet on project activities was translated and published in English (October 2021) and in Hungarian (spring 2022). 

In spring 2022, 5 new designs of project post cards were printed (10,000 pcs in total).

 

DINPD:

Project tote bags.

Cincér Newsletter was published in 2016 – 2017 – 2018 and 2019 for autumn and winter.

Chocolate bars with project logo are ready.

NFC:

Leaflet Autochthonous forest in Podunajsko region (SK: Autochtónne dreviny Podunajska)

 

E.4: Presentations and field trips for students, teachers and general public (BROZ, DINPD)

BROZ: Binoculars and magnifying glasses were purchased for the field trips. They serve for camps under E.7. Activity, too. We organized 16 field trips for schools (516 participants), and 8 field trips for general public (118 participants).

DINPD: 161 participants used bikes and canoes for the trips. 

E.5: Project presentation on conferences and in media (BROZ, WRI, NFC)

Until today, the project was presented:

• on 14 conferences
• in 7 press releases and on 3 press conferences
• in 57 articles in magazines and newspapers 
• in 13 radio appearances
• in 15 TV appearances

 

E.6: School and public presentations, interactive educational expositions (BROZ, DINPD)

We organized 19 school presentations (648 participants)
and 14 public presentations (1,400 participants).

Every year, BROZ organizes the national round of the international Danube Art Master contest.

Interactive exposition in Veľký Lél was seen by 782 visitors.

4,852 visitors saw the mobile exposition on Danube alluvial zones in Hungary.

E.7: Nature camps for children (BROZ)

Equipment for the camps was purchased in July 2017: 10 binoculars, a large binocular, magnifying glasses to observe insects, and a microscope. In 2016, sanitary facilities for camps were built.

Until today, camps were organized in every summer season since 2016. 506 children participated in total.

E.8: Final conference (BROZ)

On 6th of February 2023 a Final Conference was organized under the title We Restore the Heart of the Danube Floodplains. 56 people participated as guests, the lectures addressed the biggest achievements of the project and their impact on the target habitats and species. Also a terrain excursion was part of the program associated by a festive opening of the restored Vojčianske side arm. The output of this activity is represented by a proceedings from conference.

E.9: Networking: Other projects and institutions (BROZ)

Until today, 18 networking sessions were organized. Different nature conservancy organizations and associations participated (279 participants) in order to exchange knowledge.

E.10: The Family day (DINPD)

The event called the Dömös Green Day was held six times in Hungary (2016 – 2021), with a great attendance (3,197 participants in total).

E.11: Information panels (BROZ)

9 new information panels were prepared to join the existing two in the eco farm in Veľký Lél. The panels will provide information on natural values of the area and project activities on 4 locations (Veľkolélsky ostrov island, Apálsky ostrov island, Bodíky and Dunajské Kriviny). 

E.12: Layman report (BROZ)

Activity has not started yet.

1. Project management and progress monitoring

F.1: Project management (BROZ)

Activity in progress, BROZ regularly submits reports on partial project results to the European Commission.

Being the Coordinating Beneficiary, BROZ regularly organizes meetings of the project’s Managing Committee where project partners and representatives of relevant institutions participate.

The project duration was officially extended until September 30, 2024..

External monitoring of the project is carried out regularly (the last one took place in October 2022).

F.2: Project financial management (BROZ, DINPD)

Activity in progress.

F.3. Project audit (BROZ)

Ongoing.

F.4: Follow-up activities – after the LIFE project is completed (BROZ)

Activity has not started yet.

Television

29.9.2019 RTVS – Slovensko v obrazoch: Veľkolélsky ostrov (12:05 – 18:13 min.)

Print media

14.5.2019 Komárňanský regionálny týždenník DELTA: Pozvánka na žabiu operu

26.4.2018 Deň Zeme s Waldorfskou školou

12.10.2018 Článok o otvorení výstavy “Okná do prírody” od Barnabáša Kováča v Körkép.sk (SK verzia)

2.10.2018 Tlačová správa k otvoreniu výstavy “Okná do prírody” vo Veľkom Léli

14.9.2018 Bratislavské noviny: Mraky sľubujúce dážď pri horúčavách mesto často obchádzajú, podľa ochranárov sa to dá zmeniť

7.9.2018 Týždenník Život (O ochrane projektového územia Veľkolélsky ostrov návratom k  udržateľnému hospodáreniu formou pastvy)

3.2.2018 Pravda – Žurnál: Mokrade. Svedomie aj spása človeka

4.12.2016 Bratislavské noviny: Ochranári zachraňujú lužné lesy – začali v nich sadiť pôvodné dreviny

Časopis Cincér News letter – časopis maďarského partnera (Národný park Dunaj – Ipeľ)

Radio shows

29.6.2018 Rádio Regina – Príbeh Veľkolélskeho ostrova

24.2.2018 Rádio Regina – Apálsky ostrov

2.12.2017 Rádio Regina – Obrázky krajiny: Veľkolélsky ostrov

28.10.2017 Rádio Regina – Hosť Panorámy: Projektová manažérka Silvia Halková rozpráva o prírode a ochrane Dunajských luhov

Brochure – Reviving the Danube floodplains

BROZ – Mgr. Silvia Halková – project manager
halkova (at) broz.sk

DINPD – Gyula Kiss – project manager of partner organisation Národný park Dunaj Ipeľ
kissgy (at) dinpi.hu

NLC – Ing. Martin Bartko, PhD. – project manager of partner organisation Národné lesnícke centrum
bartko (at) nlcsk.org

VÚVH – Ing. Katarina Holubova, PhD., – project manager of partner organisation VÚVH
holubova (at) vuvh.sk