River Functionality Index as planning instrument f.. (LIFE SILIFFE)
River Functionality Index as planning instrument for a good governance of Sile's ecosystem
(LIFE SILIFFE)
Start date: Aug 1, 2015,
End date: Dec 31, 2018
PROJECT
FINISHED
Background
The conservation status of three target habitats Molinia meadows, calcareous fens and alluvial forests found in the project area have been assessed as mostly poor or extremely poor, hence the need for restoration actions. Similarly, the 11 target aquatic species are all classified as endangered. The restoration of the functionality of the humid ecosystems is crucial to their improved conservation status.
Objectives
The SILIFFE project aims to:
Strengthen the ecological network of Sile River, creating some main points of nature preservation that will be included in the network;
Preserve the areas risking degradation, particularly those suffering from human pressures, such as agriculture. The abandonment of already wooded areas has caused degradation and loss of habitat, and the project aims to create some valuable areas that will be permanently reserved for nature conservation;
Promote the integration of agricultural activities with the needs of nature preservation. To avoid conflicts, it is advisable to integrate the development of agriculture and environment through the support of the Rural Development Plan (RDP) 2014-2020 of the Veneto Region;
Monitor the effectiveness of implemented actions, assessing also the value of ecosystem services and the socio-economic effects related to nature preservation in the area of the Sile River;
Raise awareness of the value of Natura 2000 network sites, involving citizens actively in the preservation of sites and their sustainable use;
Network and share project results across the EU, building a permanent network of projects that are focused on the management of floodplain areas in territories converted by human actions; and
Ensure efficient and effective project management to guarantee continued nature preservation after the end of the project.
Expected results:
Acquisition of 6.7 ha of land for the conservation of nature;
Hydrogeological works and recovery of superficial water supply network, with at least three springs reactivated;
Restoration of ecological function of 14 ha of habitats;
Interventions to consolidate the typical fauna habitat, including the re-naturalisation of a stretch of about 300 m of the Sile River, the release of 20 000 small trout and 6 000 small grayling every year for four years, and the creation of sites of care for crayfish, bullhead and lamprey;
Interventions to combat invasive alien species (catching catfish, Louisiana crayfish and exotic turtles);
Construction of a path for disabled people (270 m of footpath and two educational panels); and
Seven wood panels for the teaching and promotion of the project and 15 banners at the premises of the beneficiaries and in the municipalities of the Park.
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