In order to formulate and implement the best practices of lagoon management, Yialova Lagoon has taken the initiative to implement the “Yialova Project”: a programme that focuses on the gradual restoration of the lagoon.
We considered it necessary to establish a three-year cooperative programme entitled “Interactions between Science – State – Society for Water Management in the Yialova Lagoon wetland”. It is implemented in collaboration with the following agencies: Navarino Environmental Observatory (NEO), Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), University of Ioannina, Captain Vassilis & Carmen Constantakopoulos Foundation, Management Unit of the Southern Peloponnese & Kythira Protected Areas and Yialova Lagoon.
Scientists, technology experts, fishermen, environmental administrators and local authorities are working together to achieve sustainable fisheries, nature conservation and ecotourism in the coming years.
The general idea behind the programme is to use scientific knowledge to support the gradual restoration and management of the wetland in collaboration with other users affected by water management.
Briefly, the programme will examine the hydrological status of the wetland in relation to the conservation status of the fish, fauna and rare, endangered and protected species and habitats, as well as the needs of other wetland users.
In addition, it will also define the main objectives for water management and propose projects aimed at:
- Boosting fish production,
- Maintaining and improving (to a reasonable extent) the ecosystem services provided by the wetland, and
- Meeting the needs of anthropogenic activities being developed in the wetland in view of Climate Change.
