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Project duration
01.04.2025 – 31.03.2027
Project ERDF co-financing
599 483,40 EUR
UrbUmbrella
LL-00232
Joint nature-based preservation of climate change/humans-threatened urban LV-LT cross-border wetlands umbrella biodiversity by innovative solutions, reintroduction and joint management
Common territorial challenge (s) that will be tackled by the project
The urban wetlands of Daugavpils (Latvia) and Zarasai (Lithuania) face common environmental challenges due to their connection by a 12-km waterway within the Daugava River catchment. Home to over 400 rare species, these wetlands are threatened by urbanisation, pollution, climate change, and invasive species. The annual movement of 20 000 cross-border tourists adds further pressure. Given these threats, joint protection and restoration of these wetlands are essential.Project objective
The project aims to preserve these wetlands by reducing pollution, emulating natural disturbances, and reintroducing key species. A Joint Sustainable Wetland-Management System will be established between the Daugavpils City and Zarasai municipalities, enhancing sustainable conservation and biodiversity protection.Planned activities
The project nature management activities will restore over 30 000 ha of wetland in Daugavpils, control invasive Red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta), and release 10 juvenile protected European pond turtles (Emys orbicularis). Also, visitor infrastructure will be developed in 132 ha to manage tourism impact. In Zarasai, 9,82 ha of urban wetland on Didžioji Island will be restored, with landscape and visitor infrastructure improvements. To ensure science-based management, experts will conduct research, oversee activities, and develop long-term conservation recommendations. Public engagement will be enhanced through an AI-supported e-learning tool on www.urbanwetland.eu and an awareness campaign. By cooperating accross the border Daugavpils and Zarasai will create an unique sustainable model for urban wetland conservation.Social media and contacts:
Phone: +37165476801
E-mail: attistiba@daugavpils.lv
Website: www.daugavpils.lv
Address: Krisjana Valdemara street 1, Daugavpils
