GroundEco

The transboundary Gauja-Koiva river basin has a joint water cycle, including its subterranean part - the groundwater. In this project, the issues related to the Groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDEs) were considered. 

Project partners developed the joint methodology for the identification and assessment of groundwater-dependent terrestrial ecosystems in the Gauja-Koiva river basin. It was verified in two pilot areas - one in Latvia, Gauja river basin area, Kazu leja valley, and one in Estonia, Koiva river basin area, Matsi spring fen. The joint methodology will serve as a basis for further identification and assessment of ecosystems in whole Estonia and Latvia. The results of a project will be used in the development of 3^rd cycle river basin management plans and reported to the European Commission. This will allow for success with the implementation of the binding Water Framework Directive’s requirements.

Project partners also developed recommendations for future transboundary groundwater monitoring development and connection with the protection of groundwater-dependent terrestrial ecosystems.

During the project, the first cooperation between institutions directly responsible for transboundary groundwater resources management in the Gauja-Koiva river basin was initiated and increased during the project lifetime. Also, the awareness of groundwater resources and connected nature was raised to the target audience resulting in the new EstLat project "Joint actions for more efficient management of common groundwater resources” or WaterAct.  Project partners produced 4 newsletters and brochures, which they disseminated during project events. 

Project materials

GroundEco newsletter #1 - EE, LV
GroundEco newsletter #2 - EE, LV

GroundEco newsletter #3 - EE, LV

GroundEco newsletter #4 - EE, LV

GroundEco brochure - EE, LV, ENG

Project materials from meetings

Posters

1. Survey results of awareness of sustainable management of common groundwater resources and associated ecosystems in the transboundary Gauja-Koiva river basin.
2. Sustainable management of common groundwater resources and associated ecosystems (in Latvian)
3. Hydrochemical monitoring and preliminary results from the Matsi spring fen in the transboundary Gauja-Koiva river basin, SE Estonia