ReFresh Fish LIFE: activities have begun related to the preservation of endangered freshwater fish

U sklopu provedbe projekta ReFresh Fish LIFE (LIFE24-NAT-HR-Refresh-Fish-LIFE/101216203), čiji je nositelj Javna ustanova Nacionalni park Krka, održana je prva terenska projektna aktivnost s ciljem jačanja kapaciteta uključenih dionika i početka izlova invazivnih vrsta.

The project, worth a total of more than four million euros, 75% of which is co-financed by the European Union, is being implemented from 1 September 2025 and will continue until 31 August 2030. It is aimed at improving the preservation status of five endemic fish species in the Šibenik-Knin and Split-Dalmatia counties, which are facing numerous threats, such as invasive species, habitat degradation, and changes to water regimes.

The introductory educational and field activity brought together project partners and employees who will participate in the implementation of project activities. The education was conducted by experts from the Faculty of Science of the University of Zagreb, which is one of the project partners. The activities took place over two days at several locations within the Natura 2000 area: Visovac Lake, the Čikola River, and the Vrba area, as well as the Miloševo and Stipančevo Lakes.

On the first day, participants were introduced to the fieldwork methodology, with an emphasis on techniques for catching fish using nets and electric generators. After the theoretical part, practical work began in the field, where they were able to apply the methods they had learned in real-world conditions.

On the second day, the nets were removed and the collected samples were processed. The fish were weighed, measured, counted, and classified on site. The collected data was systematically entered into tables and recorded and will serve as the basis for the preparation of catch reports and further scientific analysis, as well as for monitoring the state of populations.

This activity marked the beginning of the implementation of concrete measures within the project, which aims to improve the longterm conservation status of endangered freshwater species. Regular harvesting and monitoring will continue to be carried out at defined locations, ensuring continuous data collection, and effective management of these valuable ecosystems.

Along with activities, such as invasive species control, habitat restoration, and education of the people involved, the ReFresh Fish LIFE project is an important step in preserving the unique freshwater biodiversity of the Dalmatian karst region, and strengthening the syetem of protecing nature in the Natura 2000 area.