LIFE TRŠCA: Spring Event “From lake to garden”

On Saturday, April 11, Notranjski Park will host a spring event titled “From lake to garden” in the parking lot of the Visitor center Lake Cerknica at Dolenje Jezero, where visitors will be introduced to a new product—compost from Lake Cerknica.

The compost is made from unused reeds and grasses from the intermittent lake and serves as an example of the circular use of natural resources. The material found at the bottom of the intermittent lake when the water recedes has been transformed through innovative processing into a light, nutritious, and natural compost suitable for gardens, potted plants, and lawns.

Free distribution of the compost will take place between 9:00 and 14:00. Visitors will be able to take some home to try it out, and after a few months, they can help evaluate the project by filling out a short survey. The compost was produced as part of the LIFE TRŠCA project, in collaboration with the ROSA composting facility in Vrhnika. Pilot composting and analyses have confirmed that it is suitable for use in gardens, agricultural land, and other green spaces.

The official start of the event will be at 10:00. Visitors will be addressed by the Director of Notranjska Park, Leon Kebe, and the Mayor of the Municipality of Cerknica, Marko Rupar. This will be followed by presentations of the projects:

• LIFE FOR SEEDS – aimed at the conservation and restoration of endangered grassland and wetland habitats and their characteristic plant species. An important part of the project is the establishment of a seed bank of native plants, which enables long-term preservation of plant species and supports nature-friendly management of these areas.
• LIFE OrnamentalIAS – focuses on the prevention and management of invasive alien ornamental plants. At the stand, visitors will learn about the black, orange, and white lists of plants and find out more about native trees and shrubs as environmentally friendly alternatives.
• LIFE TRŠCA – the project contributes to improving the condition of the intermittent Lake Cerknica, with an emphasis on reed beds as habitats for endangered aquatic and marsh species. Measures include adapted mowing regimes, testing new ways of biomass use, and cooperation with local stakeholders.

The event will also feature a Seed and Seedling Bazaar, where visitors will be able to exchange seeds and seedlings. There will also be activities for children and a wheel of fortune, making the event suitable for the whole family. In addition, visitors will be able to purchase products for nature-friendly gardening at the Vrtnarija Najdi stand.

Notranjska Park promotes the local economy and supports the principles of the circular economy. The event From Lake to Garden thus brings together practical compost testing, learning about nature conservation projects, and the involvement of the local community in sustainable activities.