Local partnership building key to success in Prespa

The PrespaNet network in the past three years implemented the project “Prespa: conservation of biological diversity in across the Prespa border”, which was financially supported by PONT and the Aage V. Jensen Charity Foundation. The project revolved around five programmes: wetlands, waterbirds and climate change, environmental education and outreach, species conservation, freshwater island conservation, local office management and transboundary co-ordination.

Key Achievements: Among the project’s notable achievements stands the successful restoration of 0.5 hectares of alder forests within Nature Park “Ezerani”. This remarkable feat was accomplished through a series of meticulously planned activities, including the cultivation and planting of alder seedlings, strategic reforestation efforts, and comprehensive capacity-building programs for local stakeholders.

Another important habitat in Prespa are the wet meadows. Over many years, humans have maintained these ecosystems through frequent and regular grazing and mowing. Macedonian Ecological Society (MES) continued this practice during the peak of the meadow’s biomass production, which allows removal of part of the accumulated nutrients. With this activity we are not only enhancing the biological diversity of the region and reducing the pressure on the lake, but also supporting the stockbreeders who receive the hay.

Furthermore, significant progress was made in environmental education, students were familiarised with conservation problems through the “Prespa” board game. By integrating indoor and outdoor learning activities and promoting cross-border collaboration, the project enhanced environmental awareness and education in the Prespa basin. Additionally, the project engaged international volunteers in conservation activities, yielding novel data on Hermann’s tortoise population dynamics. Notably, the population size of Hermann’s tortoises on Agios Achilleos Island was estimated for the first time, contributing valuable insights to conservation efforts.

For further details on conservation efforts, consider watching the short video Golem Grad – Nature’s Last Hideaway

Challenges and Learning: Throughout the project, the team encountered a range of challenges, from bureaucratic hurdles to engaging with conservative local communities.  However, each obstacle presented a valuable opportunity for growth and learning. The project team gained insights into the importance of adaptability in the face of adversity, the necessity of fostering genuine community engagement, and the pivotal role of centralized coordination in educational initiatives. These lessons, though hard-earned, have ultimately strengthened the project’s resilience and preparedness for future endeavors.

Impact: Despite the hurdles, by fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation, the project has empowered local residents to become active participants in safeguarding their natural surroundings.

Future Plans: Looking ahead, the project’s learnings will serve as guiding principles for future initiatives. MES will continue with the activities aimed at restoring wetlands, including the analysis of the dynamics of the habitats along the coast of Prespa Lake and the active management of the wetlands as well as the restoration of alder forests. Likewise, steps to fight wildlife crime in Prespa will be taken, working closely with stakeholders.

By: MES