The LIFE programme of WWF Hungary can go a long way towards the conservation of the biological diversity of the Carpathian-basin by preserving traditional forms of floodplain management. The publication titled "New life for the Tisza River" introduce the tradition of "fok"-management, the flora and fauna of the Middle-Tisza and the restoration works too.
The preface was written by Csaba Aradi, Director of the Hortobágy National Park.
The Tisza River, an ancient force shaping and sustaining the land, has become a symbol of the characteristic plains region of Hungary. This publication presents the possibility for and necessity of a largescale landscape rehabilitation programme, along with the diversity of tools it would involve.
It presents well-reasoned proposals for activities which, when implemented, will serve as models for the people along the Tisza. It seeks solutions for the conservation of the river’s biological diversity, as well as its role as an ecological corridor, making use of the opportunities offered by the preservation of traditional land-use methods and taking into account the well-being of the local population.
People of the Great Plains Region of Hungary used to wish for ”two Gods for this land: one to bring floods and one to dry them up”. This dichotomy has supported the mosaic-like landscape along the Tisza, defined spatial linkages and maintained the dynamics of its natural systems.
The regulation of the water table and the revival of the connections between the river and its former wetlands will unleash the power of the ecological processes that maintain the abundance of nature.
This approach looks way beyond the narrow boundaries of the current floodplain defined by the dykes, it considers the natural systems of the original floodplain, projecting into the future the possibility for the continuation of the work. It already re-creates, at least in thought, the ancient inter-dependence and harmony of freshwater and terrestrial systems - he writes.
In the terminology of the European Union, LIFE is an acronym that stands for “L’Instrument Financier pour l’environment” (Financial Instrument for the Environment). The LIFE instrument provides funding in three major areas of action: Environment, Nature and Third Countries.
Although all three areas aim at the protection and improvement of the environment, they each have their specific priorities. LIFE Nature provides funding for the conservation of wild flora and fauna and the protection of habitats of EU interest.
LIFE dates back to 1992 and it has made possible the implementation of nearly 300 projects in 20 countries. Between 1996 and 1999, EUR450 million was spent on LIFE programmes. LIFE funding was opened to accession countries in 1999, with the first seven projects funded in Romania.
In 2001, two projects were started in Hungary with the help of the LIFE instrument. One of them is the Tisza LIFE Project, which is presented in detail in this study.
The booklet can be downloaded from the website.
Information & Contact:
WWF Hungary
Németvölgyi út 78/b
H-1124 Budapest
Phone: +36 1 214-5554
Fax: +36 1 212-9353
