#wetworks

The main objective of the Wetworks project is to protect and restore wetlands. The SOP SR will create a small pond in the high priority Fenek marsh in the Cerová Vrchovina Landscape Protection Area in Slovakia, which will contribute to water retention and thus improve the habitat conditions for protected species in the area. In the area of the Bükk National Park Directorate, a wetland will be created around the Kácsi spring group. The aim of the project is to protect the 4 special snail species occurring in the area and to create a new habitat. Another important objective of the project is the survey of terrestrial invasive plant species occurring on the Hungarian (from Ipolytarnóc to Hont) and Slovak (from Malinec reservoir to Kalonda) sections of the river Ipiľ and the control of invasive species. Near Sátorosbánya, chemical eradication of myrtle birch is planned on an area of 2000 m2 , while 1.3 ha of silk worm will be eradicated on the outskirts of Ipolytarnóc. In order to achieve these common objectives, experts will carry out surveys on the current ecological status of wetlands and monitor changes through biomonitoring activities following the interventions. An important innovative element of the project is the acquisition of a mobile classroom on the Slovak side, which will help to provide a new experiential form of education. Equipped with a vehicle to demonstrate wetlands and their habitats, they will be able to carry out educational activities in nature – along lakes, rivers and streams. The project will organise workshops and forums, produce publications, multilingual leaflets and short films to raise awareness of the importance of wetlands and their protection. They will also promote the project and its achievements. The project will result in the survey and habitat restoration of a large area and a number of endangered species in the Slovak-Hungarian border area, providing them with the necessary ecosystem protection. These are also key to biodiversity conservation and to addressing societal challenges and climate change.