LIFE TRŠCA: Water – our wealth and responsibility

In Notranjski Park we can boast of unique aquatic ecosystems, among which Lake Cerknica plays a central role, as the largest intermittent lake in Europe. It provides habitat for numerous plant and animal species based on its natural dynamic. However this aquatic wealth is sensitive to the impacts of climate change, pollution and other human interventions, so it must be carefully protected. An important step in this direction is also the LIFE TRŠCA project, whose main aim is to improve the conservation status of the intermittent  Lake Cerknica.

Notranjski Park – a natural treasure trove of water resources

Notranjski Park is a unique area where underground and surface waters, karst phenomena, and rich biodiversity intertwine. In addition to Lake Cerknica there are numerous streams, karst springs and underground aquifers that are crucial for the ecosystem and local population. Because of the karst terrain, water quickly sinks from the surface, which means the water sources are especially sensitive to pollution. Since there are no plants and other primary consumers in underground systems, the water is not filtered or purified, which means that almost all nutrients and other substances from the surface remain in it. Therefore, preserving water quality in this area is of essential importance.

The sensitivity of Lake Cerknica and the importance of protecting it

Lake Cerknica is a natural phenomenon that, due to its drying nature, provides habitat for various ecosystems. In spring, when it fills with water, it becomes home to numerous species of birds, fish and amphibians. In summer, when the water recedes, meadows emerge on its bottom, offering grazing and food for many animals, in winter it provides a resting place for many migratory bird species.

But this balance is fragile. Climate change causes fluctuations in the amount of precipitation, which affects the duration and extent of the lake's inundation. An additional problem is human interventions, such as pollution, water regulation, and inappropriate land use. If we do not carefully protect this very special piece of the world, we could irreversibly lose one of Slovenia's greatest natural treasures.

Cerknica Lake is the largest intermittent lake in Europe.

How does the LIFE TRŠCA project contribute to better water quality?

The LIFE TRŠCA project, which we is being implemented in Notranjska Park, is aimed at improving the condition of wetland habitats, which are crucial for the ecological balance of Lake Cerknica  With tailored management of peatlands and wetlands, we want to improve water quality and enable a more stable and healthier environment for plants and animals.

Among the most important measures are:

1. Restoration and maintenance of peatlands, which act as natural filters or as plant-based purification systems and help remove excess nutrients from the water. Because of high biomass production, they are thus much more efficient than other plants.
    
2. Removal of dead biomass, which prevents excessive accumulation of organic substances and reduces the risk of eutrophication (excessive enrichment of water with nutrients that causes the ecosystem to degrade).
    
3. Adjustment of agricultural-environmental measures, which enable coexistence of humans and nature, by strengthening the lake's self-purifying capacity and thereby reducing negative impacts on water resources.

With these measures, the LIFE TRŠCA project not only improves the water condition in Lake Cerknica  but also contributes to the long-term protection of this exceptional natural pearl. Maintaining water quality is also important for the lower-lying sources of drinking water along the Ljubljanica.

Trstičje plays a key role in improving water quality at  Lake Cerknica.

What can we do to protect water in Notranjska Park?

Protecting Lake Cerknica  and other water sources in Notranjska Park is not only the task of conservationists, but the responsibility of everyone – local residents, visitors and the broader community. Each individual can contribute to preserving of  this very special piece of the world:

1.) Responsible water use:

• Conserve water in daily use.
• Use environmentally friendly cleaners and detergents to reduce groundwater pollution.
• During droughts do not wash cars and other machinery, especially not in water bodies.
• Collect rainwater for irrigation and other needs.

2.) Respect for natural habitats

• When visiting Lake Cerknica, do not leave waste and do not introduce non-native plant or animal species.
• Do not throw cigarette butts into the water.
• Do not dispose any waste in caves.
• Respect the natural cycles of the lake and do not undertake interventions that could disrupt ecological balance.
• Fertilization should be limited and carried out only during the growing season.
• Along the water, we leave at least 5 m of vegetation in the riparian belt, which contributes to better water purification and shading.

3.) Support for sustainable development

• Avoid single-use plastic, thereby preventing water and environmental pollution. Instead, use reusable bottles and environmentally friendly alternatives.
• Promote sustainable tourism. When visiting natural parks and lakes, choose ecologically responsible activities such as hiking, cycling, or birdwatching. Avoid unnecessary motorized transport, which can negatively affect delicate aquatic habitats.
• Through educating and raising awareness among children, youth, and the wider community about the importance of protecting water resources, we contribute to long-term sustainable development.
• Integrated planning of municipal connections, including sewerage and efficient water supply systems.
• Let's participate in conservation campaigns and workshops and spread good environmental protection practices.

Water - the foundation of life.

World Water Day – a reminder for the future

Every year on 22nd of March we celebrate World Water Day, which reminds us how precious clean water is. Slovenia is one of the few countries where we still have access to exceptionally high-quality drinking water, a public good, which is a true fortune and privilege. To keep it that way, we must treat water with respect, conserve it, and protect clean aquatic ecosystems such as Lake Cerknica. May this day serve as a reminder that water is the foundation of life and that we are all responsible for safeguarding it.