EU project LIFE Riverscape”: New habitat for the riparian forests!

EU project LIFE Riverscape”: New habitat for the riparian forests!

A lot is happening in the area of ​​nature conservation in the Bavarian district of Rottal-Inn. An EU-funded project called “LIFE Riverscape Lower Inn” is about to start. From the end of November 2023, nature conservation measures are planned in the valuable riparian forests that stretch between Kirchdorf am Inn and Ering. These forests are particularly important, not only because of the gray alder populations, but also as a habitat for insects, birds and amphibians. This is reported by the PNP, which emphasizes the central role of this project, which is intended to meet European requirements for the conservation of biological diversity.

With the Fauna-Flora-Habitat Directive, also known as the Habitats Directive, the EU has created a challenge for all member states. The aim of this directive is to conserve biological diversity by protecting natural habitats and wild animal and plant species. The Federal Agency for Nature Conservation has created clear guidelines to establish a connected network of protected areas, known as Natura 2000. This is an important part of the commitment to preserving our natural resources, which has been in place since 1992 and is now complemented by concrete projects such as “LIFE Riverscape Lower Inn”.

Implementation of nature conservation measures

The practical procedure is also well thought out. The landscape conservation association Rottal-Inn e.V. is responsible for implementing the planned measures that aim to significantly improve the quality of the floodplain forests. The initiators have designed the felling program in such a way that it works against the aging of the stands by planting fully grown trees on the stock every 20 years. With the help of these traditional management methods, new open areas are to be created that revitalize the habitat and greatly promote the rejuvenation of the stocks.

Numerous authorities and institutions are working together to plan and execute this project. These include the government of Lower Bavaria, various nature conservation authorities in the Passau and Rottal-Inn districts as well as various specialist departments that are committed to the goal of a healthy and protected ecosystem. This combined expertise is crucial in order to successfully implement the necessary measures and meet the legal requirements of the Habitats Directive for the preservation of biodiversity.

Protected areas and biodiversity

The Habitats Directive, which sets uniform criteria for the protection of habitats and species, obliges EU member states to designate special conservation areas. The system promotes favorable conservation status for species important to the preservation of our natural environment. The success of the measures is checked and documented with regular reports so that every step remains traceable. The next national report on this must be done every six years.

The upcoming measures in the riparian forests of Rottal-Inn are therefore more than just a local project. They are part of a major European plan to save and care for our precious nature, which should be preserved for future generations. Meanwhile, we can also find out about news and developments from the region via platforms such as WhatsApp Web in order to always keep our finger on the pulse of what is happening.