Description
The project is needed to ensure migration opportunities for the European river and other species living in the coastal sea, that migrate upstream from the sea to spawning grounds in the Lõve River. Suitable spawning habitat decline is one of the most important problems concerning fish stocks. Laidevahe bay together with Lõve River have been one of the most important spawning areas in Saaremaa. Today, during the ebb period, migration opportunities from Oessaare bay to Lõve River are poor. The aim of this project is to dredge the watercourse between Laidevahe and Oessaare bay, partially clean the Oessaare bay(estuarine)and also the delta of Lõve river. Two spawning grounds and one rapid for river lamprey will be restored. As a result, habitats of threatenedfish population of the Baltic Sea will be restored. The quality of migration-and spawning areas will rise and reproduction of species increase. In overall –greater ecological potential of Lõve river and Oessaare and Laidevahe bays will be achieved. The project will have positive impacts on water tourism enthusiasts, fishermen, the Environmental Inspectorate and environmental organizations.
Summary of project results
The project was needed to ensure migration opportunities for The European river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) and other species living in the coastal sea, that migrate upstream from the sea to spawning grounds in the Lõve River. Suitable spawning habitat decline is one of the most important problems concerning fish stocks, it has also been pointed out in the Nature Conservation Plan 2020. Laidevahe bay together with Lõve River have been one of the most important spawning areas for fish in Saaremaa. During the project a lot of sediments were removed from ditches and partially from Oessaare bay. The objective of the project was to improve the ecological state of Lõve River and Oessaare Bay. As a result of the project, delta areas of rivers Lõve and Silma were cleaned from sediments, fish migration options was restored through Oessaare bay and heaps were established on Enimasilma and Mõrrasilma. Fish habitat potential and ecological status of Lõve river, Oessaare and Laidevahe bay has been improved. People`s awareness of Laidevahe Loodus MTÜ`s activities has risen and the Project has received a lot of positive feedback from the local community. The Project had following outcomes: 1) The streambed was restored in Oessaare bay; 2) Optimal water level was restored and is maintained be creating stone heaps on Oessaare outflow, those heaps also form valuable habitats for fish; 3) Sediments were removed from Lõve River delta and Silma River; 4) Habitat diversity was risen by reforming the riverbed of Silma River (delta area); 5) Restoring habitats by cleaning the ditch connected to Silma River. Restoring the connection between Silma River and Lõve River. There are numerous wider beneficiaries of the project - environmental supervision organizations, environmental organizations: these beneficiaries were involved and informed about the project activities through the project. A number on meetings and discussions were carried out with Environmental Board. Fishermen and water tourism sector is also an important beneficiaries, these local people were involved in decision making process and they were involved in practical activities. Project outcomes were introduced to all important groups during the finishing event. In addition, local municipalities were involved to the project throughout the agenda. The main benefit was a better ecological state of Lõve river and Oessaare bay. Improved and diverse habitats for fish and other species (eg birds).
Summary of bilateral results