On 14th November an excursion to a part of Steirische Murauen (Gosdorf) was organized. Apart from our project partners from the Amt der Steiermärkischen Landesregierung, the fieldtrip participants included representatives from the local tourism association, Mayor of the Mureck Municipality, and other interested parties.

Guided by experts, the participants had the opportunity to observe kingfisher and sand martin nesting sites, and learn more about the rare little ringed plover (Charadrius dubius) and the importance of gravel bars for its nesting. Furthermore, the participants were informed about the non-native species in the area, ways of their introduction and reasons for their success in the new habitat, as well as negative effects they have.

Few days after the excursion, 19th November, our Styrian partners organized an information evening for the local population. They were introduced to the idea of the RIVER’SCOOL and its theme in the Steirische Murauen. The presentation was well- attended and the participants were given a new tourism folder, received information on river revitalization and the positive effects it has on nature and people. At the end of the presentation, a short promotional video was presented to the audience. The video can be seen here.

Photos are a courtesy of the Amt der Steiermärkischen Landesregierung.