Pilot sites

Key Focus Areas:

Revitalization of Ecosystems

• Szigetköz (DPS 1): This pilot site demonstrates the successful restoration of a natural water flow regime in a fragmented floodplain ecosystem. Through dam management, infrastructure adjustments, and stakeholder collaboration, the project has revitalized natural water levels, reconnected habitats, and improved conditions for aquatic life.
• Dynamization of the Danube Floodplains (DPS 2): This project implements strategic measures like weir construction and watercourse reconnection to restore ecological functions in a floodplain forest. By mimicking natural flood patterns, the project aims to rejuvenate the ecosystem and enhance biodiversity.

Water Scarcity and Management

• Thaya River Catchment (DPS 3): This initiative tackles water scarcity caused by historical dam construction and climate change. It focuses on wetland restoration, promoting natural water retention practices, and implementing new dam projects with features like water level control to benefit floodplain forests.
• Upper Váh River (DPS 4): This pilot site explores cost-effective solutions to address water scarcity in headwaters. By installing rain gauges and implementing natural water retention measures like small-scale reservoirs in mountain forests, the project aims to restore underground water sources, increase spring yields, and mitigate drought and flood risks.

Water Quality Improvement

• Begečka Jama (DPS 5): This project utilizes constructed wetlands, a natural biofiltration system, to treat wastewater and remove pollutants before it enters the Danube River. This approach aims to improve water quality and protect the surrounding ecosystem.

Aquatic Species Conservation

• Sturgeon Migration Bypass (DPS 6): This pilot site addresses the disruption of sturgeon migration routes caused by hydropower dams. The project explores innovative bypass solutions to ensure safe passage for these endangered fish species upstream for spawning.
• Danube Delta (DPS 7): This project closely monitors sediment flow, water quality, and biodiversity within the Danube Delta. By employing advanced analytical techniques and creating predictive models, the initiative strives to protect critical habitats for fish populations and support informed decision-making for sustainable delta management.

Combating Plastic Pollution

• Plastic Cup Society (DPS 8): This initiative tackles plastic pollution in the Bodrog River through a multi-pronged approach. It combines river cleanups with educational programs to raise awareness and empower communities. Additionally, research efforts involving online pollution maps and satellite imaging contribute to a deeper understanding of plastic dispersal patterns to inform future prevention strategies.
• Crișuri Water Basin Administration (DPS 9): This pilot site implements a large-scale solution to manage plastic waste in the Barcău, Crișul Repede, and Crișul Negru rivers. By strategically installing litter traps, the project aims to capture floating debris before it travels downstream, minimizing its impact on sensitive Natura 2000 protected areas.

Exploring Further:

For detailed information on each pilot site, please refer to the dedicated pilot site. Clicking the links or in the map above allows you to explore the specific solutions implemented at each DPS location.