BIOMURA - Conservation of the biodiversity of the Mura river in Slovenia

The main project aim was to ensure conservation of existing natural resources and biodiversity and to restore the ecological character of the Mura river corridor in Slovenia to meet the needs of the wetland ecology. The project is particularly focused on conservation of four habitat types, listed on the Annex I of the Habitats Directive, including priority habitat type (Alluvial forests with alder Alnus glutinosa and ash Fraxinus excelsior) and to the species from the Annex II (an amphibian, five types of fish, a dragonfly and a priority butterfly species Jersey tiger - Callimorpha quadripunctaria). There are also 10 targeted bird species, listed on the Annex I to the Birds Directive. The project area is included in the list of Natura 2000 sites (pSCI and SPA). The main actions include the removal of revetments to stimulate side erosion and widening the river profile, introduction of rock-fill riffle to raise water levels during low and average flows, reopening of the side-channels and introduction of a system of wooden sluices to raise groundwater tables. Moreover, standing water habitats are restored for amphibians and dragonflies, and wet grasslands are improved providing habitats for butterflies and birds. Information and awareness-raising materials including a film on the importance of restoration for biodiversity are produced.