Strengthening Conservation and Community Engagement in the Prespa–Ohrid–Shebenik Ecoregion

Throughout 2025, conservation work in the Prespa–Ohrid–Shebenik Ecoregion showed how scientific research, community involvement, and regional cooperation can jointly support the protection of one of the Balkans’ most important biodiversity areas. Through field monitoring, educational initiatives, and partnerships with local and regional actors, the project contributed to strengthening ecological knowledge, supporting local stakeholders, and promoting a more coordinated approach to nature conservation across the Prespa region.

A major milestone during this period was the organisation of the third Scientific Symposium for Prespa Lakes, held in February 2026. The symposium brought together around one hundred researchers, policymakers, and conservation practitioners from Albania, Greece, and North Macedonia. Participants shared research findings and discussed key challenges affecting the lakes, such as climate change, water management, and biodiversity conservation. The event strengthened regional cooperation and helped identify priorities for future research and joint conservation work.

Field monitoring remained a central part of the project’s activities throughout the year. The first water quality monitoring expedition of the second year, conducted in April in Lake Great Prespa, indicated a slight increase in certain parameters, particularly pH values, while the remaining measurements stayed within accepted environmental standards. Additional monitoring during the summer revealed seasonal variations in both lakes, including slightly elevated pH values and reduced dissolved oxygen concentrations. Despite these fluctuations, most parameters remained within acceptable limits defined by relevant environmental standards. These findings provide useful insight into natural seasonal dynamics and help identify potential ecological pressures.

During the autumn monitoring expedition in September, a noticeable decrease in the water level of Lake Great Prespa was observed. At the same time, some measured parameters showed values slightly above the thresholds set by EU environmental standards. These results offer important indications of ongoing changes in water quality and hydrological conditions.

Wildlife monitoring also continued across wetlands and surrounding habitats. This included winter bird censuses, spatial monitoring of waterbirds, and observations of breeding success for species such as the goosander, which holds particular conservation significance in the Prespa ecosystem.

Partnerships with regional organisations and academic institutions also played an important role in strengthening local capacity. Collaboration with the organisation Korça Alpin helped expand outreach and community engagement, while cooperation with the University of Korça enabled four students to participate in ongoing field activities, including water‑quality monitoring, roe‑deer density evaluation, and the study of medicinal plants Through these activities, students contribute to scientific research while gaining valuable practical experience in conservation.

Education and training activities further connected conservation efforts with local communities and young people. Environmental education initiatives reached more than 200 students and 20 teachers from 5 local schools. In addition, several field camps and training events provided hands-on learning opportunities. These included the Bird Ringing Camp, which brought together 17 students and three lecturers, the PrespaNet Summer School, attended by 16 students and 13 teachers from across the region, and the International Small Mammals Camp, where 50 students, experts, and staff participated. These activities encouraged youth engagement and strengthened interest in conservation among the next generation.

The project also highlighted several important lessons for future work. It confirmed the value of continued regional cooperation, as environmental challenges in the Prespa basin are shared across national borders. At the same time, the experience showed that the active involvement of local communities is essential for long-term conservation success. Supporting young researchers and strengthening local capacities also proved to be key elements. Unexpected events, such as wildfires and wildlife incidents, further emphasised the importance of fire prevention actions and close cooperation with local authorities.

Overall, the activities implemented during the reporting period strengthened scientific knowledge, expanded regional collaboration, and deepened engagement with local communities. Together, these efforts contributed to the ongoing protection of the unique ecosystems of the Prespa–Ohrid– Shebenik ecoregion.

By: “PPNEA”