THE VJOSA DELTA

The Vjosa Delta is one of the last 4% of intact deltas in the Mediterranean region. Shaped by various factors resulting from the interaction of riverine processes, marine conditions, and sediment supply, deltas are susceptible to changes. Agriculture, industry, tourism and conditional changes in land use directly impact these ecosystems by influencing the key formation factors. This includes the construction of barriers and dams in the course of the river. These upstream modifications of the river flow entail the disruption of sediment discharge and flow patterns, leading to significant changes in river morphology and hydromorphological conditions, thus affecting the balance of the delta.

The Vjosa Delta comprises over 15 km of river and almost 30 km of coastline, including the Narta lagoon in the south. This area is one of Albania's most crucial wetlands, hosting over 220 bird species year-round and playing a vital role in the Adriatic migration route. By merging riparian and coastal landscapes, deltas create a variety of habitats reflected in high biodiversity and productivity.

Given the decline of deltas and river mouths in the Mediterranean, highlighted by Schwarz (2024) through a comprehensive analysis of 258 deltas in the area, it is essential to raise awareness of the ecological importance of still intact deltas. Despite the recent designation of the Vjosa as the first Wild River National Park, parts of its ecosystem remain under threat, primarily from the government's plans for large-scale tourism. The development of resorts within the Delta and Narta lagoon poses ongoing threats to the protection status of the Vjosa network. It is, therefore, all the more important to protect the Aoos/Vjosa river network as a whole and to integrate the Vjosa Delta as an equally important part of the protected status. 

SCIENCE WEEK

From April 22-27, over 50 scientists from Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Greece and Italy, along with 20 national and international journalists and activists, gathered to study and explore the Vjosa Delta. They aimed to advocate for the delta's protection and inclusion in the Vjosa Wild River National Park according to IUCN standards. This initiative emphasises the crucial importance of conserving this biodiversity hotspot. An interdisciplinary effort by international scientists from aquatic and terrestrial biology, forestry, coastal ecology, microplastics and more will lead to a better understanding and, thus, protection of this unique ecosystem.

Press release: Vjosa Delta Science Week 2024: Science Delegation Explores Intact Vjosa Delta