Ljubljanica Connects

Description: Restoration of the Ljubljanica River corridor and upgrading of the river’s flow regime: The goal of the project is to enhance the transitivity and connectivity of Natura 2000 sites, by restoring the functionality of the Ljubljanica corridor linking two Natura 2000 sites, i.e. Ljubljansko barge (Ljubljana Marshes) and Sava–Medvode–Kresnice. The project aims will be reached through the removal of fish migration barriers, through the upgrading of the water regime, thus restoring habitats, through upgrading the water infrastructure, water management, and establishment of hydrological monitoring. The earmarked fish species whose habitats are to be ameliorated are Danube salmon (Hucho hucho L.), Danube roach (Rutilus pigus Heckel) and Striped chub (Leuciscus souffia Risso). (University of Ljubljana, 2015). At the outset, the river engineering measures will include the sealing of the weir situated before the railway bridge over the Ljubljanica in Zalog. Thus, during arid conditions, the water level shall not be diminished and the conditions in the oxbows of the Ljubljanica upstream will get better. The fishways at the dam at the Fužine Castle and the sluice gate at the Ambrose Square will be refurbished and repristinated. This will permit the migration of fish, which is now severely hindered. The sluice gate on the Ljubljanica near the Ambrose Square will be refurbished. The existing chain lift mechanism enables a rather rough control of the gate, and, therefore, of flows and water levels, resulting in the immediate emptying of the stream (water levels) upstream. Upgrading or improvement of the gate will enable a more precise degree of control of the Ljubljanica water levels, particularly during low flows and droughts. This is crucial, since maintaining the proper level of the Ljubljanica impacts the entire water regime of the Ljubljana Marshes.