Restoration of the Łupawa River – current results

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Currently, we are just before the completion of construction works as part of the investment called "Restoration of the bottom of the Łupawa valley [...]". The main goal of the works being carried out is to increase flood protection in the village of Smołdzino, while improving the condition of alder-ash riparian forests and oxbow lakes.
As we know, the Łupawa River was "straightened" for the construction of hydroelectric power plants, as a result of which the naturally meandering river was turned into a working canal. For this reason, 20 ha of alder and ash riparian forests were cut off from natural flooding. Moreover, the oxbow lakes cut off by the embankment were degraded.
We can now confidently say that the work is bringing the intended results. In the photos below this text we can see the renovated embankment, which has regained the appropriate parameters necessary for proper flood protection.

However, the biggest surprise and success we have observed is the first documented inflow of water into the riparian meadow and the supply of water to the oxbow lake through the connections made. This is a truly breakthrough moment due to the fact that such a phenomenon has not occurred naturally since the construction of hydroelectric power plants on the Łupawa River.

The result of water entering the riparian area and oxbow lakes is, of course, an improvement in the condition of habitats for wetland birds and fish species occurring in the Łupawa River. In addition, an important aspect is increasing water retention in this area, which, as we know, is very important in the era of climate change.

We are motivated by the fact that we can already see the planned results at this stage. Of course, we will report on an ongoing basis what positive effects we will be able to observe in the context of habitats and species.

We are slowly approaching the completion of construction works and the implementation of the entire project. We have planned to prepare a Layman's report and a Scientific report, which we will post for viewing on this website. This will allow for a comprehensive understanding of the results we have currently achieved and those we plan to achieve in the near future.

Below are photos of the work carried out.

 

  

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