ECOWAM – Eco-friendly water management against extreme weather conditions in the cross-border area – ECOWAM

1. Lower Tisza District Water Directorate, Hungary
2. PWMC “Vode Vojvodine” Novi Sad, Serbia
3. European Affairs Fund of Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, Serbia

To prevent the negative effects on the quality of water bodies by establishing a joint system of improvement of water management in AP Vojvodina and Csongrád County.

Specific objectives:

(1) To improve the water balance of the Jegrička River (44+015 km-46+673 km/29+588 km-37+892 km), and Kurca main channel (4+487 km-9+997 km) in the CBC region by sludge dredging, building works and overgrown vegetation removal from the riverbed;

(2) To develop a joint monitoring and analysis system to preserve the water

quality and biodiversity in CBC region;

(3) To define long-term solutions to prevent the quality degradation of water bodies.

Expected results:

1. Excess water prevention achieved by revitalization of the Jegrička River and Kurca main channel;

2. Hydro-biological analyses and monitoring of water quality and sludge of the Jegrička River and Kurca main channel in the selected locations before and after the dredging in compliance with Article 8 of the Water Framework Directive conducted;

3. Experience between Serbian and Hungarian partners exchanged in the field of sustainable water management and nature protection;

4. Adequate „Riverside path” constructed at the Jegrička Nature Park;

5. Study of Jegrička Nature Park against the impact of underground and surface water produced;

6. Joint database as a basis for experience exchange and future cooperation created.

Main activities:

(1)  Dredging of the Jegrička River and of the Kurca main channel;

(2) Reconstruction of one water retention facility („Bikaistálló-gate”);

(3) Works on the inspection and walking path on the Jegrička riverbank;

(4) Drafting and publishing of monograph;

(5) Development of study: general project with previous feasibility study;

(6) Construction of a monitoring station at 27+827 km cross-section;

(7)  Hydro-biological analysis and monitoring of water and sludge quality;

(8) Monitoring analysis and study of the Kurca habitat;

(9) Organisation of educational activities and roundtables;

(10) Development of project website with database;

(11) PR campaign;

(12) Project management.  

Target groups:

Institutions involved in water management, farmers, population endangered by excess water, children, regional/local stakeholders, tourism organizations.