As part of Invasive Alien Species Awareness Week, a volunteer action to remove invasive alien plants was carried out at Lake Cerknica. The aim of the activity was to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and improve the condition of the natural environment. The event was attended by volunteers from Triglav Insurance Company in cooperation with the Slovenian Philanthropy.
The action began with an introduction to the Lake Cerknica area, the LIFE OrnamentalIAS project, the importance of nature conservation, and the impacts of invasive alien plant species on local ecosystems. Participants were also familiarised with the work plan and safety instructions.
Following the introduction, we rolled up our sleeves and headed into the field. Particular attention was given to the removal of Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) and giant goldenrod (Solidago gigantea), two invasive species that have been spreading rapidly in certain parts of the area and increasingly outcompeting native vegetation. These species have also begun encroaching on habitats of the yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus), further highlighting the importance of regular invasive species management.
Together, we removed approximately 100 m² of Himalayan balsam and 100 m² of giant goldenrod stands within a plot covering around 750 m². This work made an important contribution to reducing the spread of invasive alien species and improving conditions for the preservation of native vegetation at Lake Cerknica.
At the end of the action, we reviewed the completed work, shared our impressions, and thanked all participants for their valuable contribution. The volunteers also expressed their wish to return to the same location next year to assess the effectiveness of this year's measures, demonstrating their long-term commitment to nature conservation. We will continue to organise similar volunteer activities in the future, as they have proven to be an effective way of supporting nature conservation while also raising awareness about the challenges posed by invasive alien species.
The implementation of extensive nature conservation projects exceeds the financial capacity of the local community, therefore Notranjska Park regularly applies for projects with the possibility of co-financing by the European Union.
The implementation of large-scale conservation projects exceeds the financial capabilities of the local community, therefore Notranjska Park regularly applies for projects with the possibility of co-financing from the European Union.
