PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
The Drwęca river has a rich mosaic of habitats that are characteristic of a river valley and create favorable conditions for numerous species of fish, including the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), as well as water birds and other animals. Following the construction of a dam in Wloclawek, which has poorly functioning structures to facilitate fish migration (fish ladders), the spawning grounds of the salmon population in the upper part of the Vistula basin were cut off. Therefore, the restoration of ecosystem elements benefitting salmon (and other fish species) is needed.
OBJECTIVES
Project goals focused on improving habitat conditions for Atlantic salmon through: biological restoration of the Drwęca river and its tributary (river Wel), including habitat conditions in the area of the Drwęca Valley; improving the hydrology of the river by constructing fish ladders that will allow free migration of the species; limiting negative anthropogenic impacts in the Drwęca Basin by managing visitor pressures on relevant parts of the waterway; and raising local community awareness about protection within Nature 2000 areas, including the moderate use of the Drwęca river.
Expected results: Anticipated outcomes of the project included a significant increase in the Atlantic salmon population in the whole basin. This would also have a positive impact on other fish, including: European weatherfish (Misgurnus fossilis), European River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) and European Brook Lamprey (Lampetra planeri).
Other expected results included the creation of 11 new areas where public access would be restricted. This would reduce tourist pressure on the Natura 2000 site (PLH280001) and help to maintain the natural richness of this region, especially of marsh and water habitats, which are the main natural refuge for fish and amphibians.
RESULTS
The project did not start.
