Improving Biodiversity Knowledge and Informing Management Practices for Lake Dojran

 

Organization: Macedonian Ecological Society (MES)
Award Amount: €34 000
Project Type: PROZHUM Small Project
Duration: January 2024 – December 2026
Project Contact: Danka Uzunova, uzunova@mes.org.mk 
Keywords: biodiversity status; management plan; local knowledge

Summary

The waterbirds of Lake Dojran have always been a symbol of the importance of the lake to local inhabitants, with people traditionally using birds in elaborate systems of underwater tunnels to fish. Today, the Monument of Nature Lake Dojran has been recognized as an Emerald site, a Ramsar site, an Important Bird Area, and an Important Plant Area due to its blend of climatic, ecological, and geographical characteristics that support a wide range of flora and fauna. However, the site’s biodiversity is actively changing due to ongoing variations in lake levels from human activity and climate change and critical biodiversity data, particularly regarding breeding waterbirds and habitat dynamics, is lacking. To prevent and mitigate changes, the municipality and local organizations are developing a management plan for the site and need biodiversity information of the site.

Since 2014, MES has implemented various educational and biodiversity-related initiatives in the region, including engaging with schools, local NGOs, and stakeholders. In this project, MES is filling biodiversity knowledge gaps by coordinating and conducting two years of field research. Educational staff are also organizing two education camps for local primary and high school students. To expand awareness about the value of the site and facilitate long-term communication efforts, the team is producing a comprehensive biodiversity handbook with wildlife photographers. In close collaboration with the Municipality of Dojran and other NGOs Milleukontakt Macedonia and Regional Environmental Centre, MES will ensure that the collected data directly informs the finalization and implementation of the Management Plan for the Monument of Nature Lake Dojran, contributing to long-term wetland protection and sustainable local development. With expertise in biodiversity monitoring and in raising awareness of the importance of wetland habitats, MES is well suited for this boundary-spanning role to support the protection of Lake Dojran.

Objectives

• Improve local and expert knowledge on the biodiversity features of Lake Dojran
• Inform and support sustainable management practices for the Monument of Nature Lake Dojran through science-based recommendations
• Enhance environmental education and public communication regarding the lake’s ecological values.

The anticipated impact includes the completion of over 20 field research days, two educational camps involving 50 local pupils, publication of a 3000-copy pocket biodiversity guide, and direct input into the lake’s official Management Plan. Through broad stakeholder engagement and a strong communication strategy, the project is expected to strengthen both local conservation efforts and the long-term protection of this unique wetland ecosystem.

Resources

• Learn more about the PROZHUM project

Funding

Agence Française de Développement (AFD) implements France’s policy on international development and solidarity. Through its financing of NGOs and the public sector, as well as its research and publications, AFD supports and accelerates transitions towards a fairer, more resilient world. It also provides training in sustainable development (at AFD Campus) and other awareness-raising activities in France.