Israel - SMARR

Guidelines for restoration planning of reservoirs

Local Authority

Name: Israel Nature and Parks Authority
Website: www.parks.org.il
Contact information of site coordinator: Ariel Cohen, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Sister site: DPS 1: Szigetköz (Hungary)

Photos: SMARR

Site description

The DPS1 Szigetköz region ecological system revitalization (Hungary) will be replicated in order to develop inclusive and applicable guidelines for reservoir restoration planning. The aim is to ensure that restoration efforts both conserve and enhance the role of reservoirs as aquatic habitats, while preserving their designated functions.

Ecosystem

Israel lies within a climatic transition zone, ranging from near-temperate conditions in the north to arid conditions in the south. Consequently, aquatic habitats such as reservoirs play a vital role in supporting diverse wildlife, including waterfowl, otters, gazelles, foxes, wolves, and many other species.

In addition, Israel is situated along a major migratory corridor, making reservoirs essential as resting and watering sites for migratory species such as storks and birds of prey.

Facts & Figures

322

Reservoirs in Israel

95

95% wastewater recycling

180,580

wintering waterfowl population estimation

Location

Israel, Central region. General centroid coordinates (Pilot specific location to be determined): 31°50'29.4"N 34°53'21.5"E

Size

Approximately 200-300 dunams; as the pilot site is yet to be determined, the area is estimated.

SMARR will address an existing need to improve methods for the preservation of aquatic habitats in Israel.

Existing projects

None.

DALIA Implementation Plan

Stakeholders from diverse sectors will be brought together to collaborate on the integrated planning of reservoir rehabilitation in Israel, building on and replicating the approach developed in the DALIA project. This process will promote a synergistic framework that considers a wide range of needs and perspectives, while aligning them with the ecological requirements of aquatic habitats to achieve balanced and mutually beneficial outcomes.

Involvement of the Community

SMARR will aim to engage a broad range of stakeholders, with particular emphasis on the involvement of local communities. As many reservoirs are situated within agricultural landscapes, the active participation and cooperation of local farming communities will be essential to the project’s success.

Moreover, reservoirs that serve as nesting and resting sites for birds often attract birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This form of recreational and educational tourism can provide added value to local communities by supporting livelihoods and enhancing the range of services they can offer.

Expected Impact

To develop a comprehensive, up-to-date, and evidence-based handbook for the ecological planning of reservoirs, with a focus on long-term applicability and impact. The guidelines will be demonstrated and refined through their implementation in selected pilot reservoirs, to be identified as the project progresses.