As part of the cross-border project “Restoration of Water Bodies through Cross-Border Cooperation” (“All about ponds”, project No. LL-00049), the municipalities of Šilutė (Lithuania) and Kuldīga (Latvia) have successfully completed significant stages in restoring the ecosystems of urban ponds in their respective regions. The project is co-financed by the Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027 and supported by both municipal administrations.
Ecological Restoration in H. Scheu Park, Šilutė
In Šilutė, one of the project’s key components – the restoration of the ponds in H. Scheu Park – has already been completed. After comprehensive cleaning works, fish stocking was carried out on April 25, 2025, with grass carp and bighead carp introduced to help control algae and aquatic plant overgrowth. These species were chosen for their ability to naturally balance the ecosystem and improve water quality.
Between June 19–26, the ecological improvement continued with aquatic plantings. A total of 50 water lilies, 200 three-leaf bean, and 200 irises were planted, enhancing biodiversity and the visual appeal of the park. Monitoring activities are scheduled for September–October 2025 to evaluate the ecological outcomes and long-term effectiveness of the restoration.
To protect the renewed ecosystem, fishing is strictly prohibited, and the area is monitored by video surveillance. Informational signs have been installed to raise public awareness.
Improvements in Māra Pond, Kuldīga
Similar efforts took place in Māra Pond in Kuldīga, where on May 12, 2025, grass carp and bighead carp were released into the waterbody. The introduction of these species was carried out by SIA “EKO ĢILEDE”, with the goal of reducing algae growth and improving water clarity and quality.
Further enhancements were made on June 3, 2025, when SIA “STĀDAUDZĒTAVA BLĪDENE” delivered and planted colorful water lilies in the cleaned areas of the pond. The lilies, in shades of white, pink, and yellow, not only add aesthetic value but also provide ecological functions such as shading the water, regulating temperature, and offering habitat for fish and other aquatic life.
A Shared Vision for Sustainable Urban Water Bodies
These coordinated restoration actions mark an important milestone in the “All about ponds” project. By combining biological, ecological, and community-focused approaches, the partner municipalities of Šilutė and Kuldīga are working together to achieve long-term ecological sustainability, improve urban green spaces, and enhance public well-being.
