Mapping of pressures in Vjosa Wild River National Park

The Mapping of pressures in Vjosa Wild River National Park report highlights the ongoing threats to the Vjosa River and its tributaries, mapping out the pressures that are severely impacting the park’s biodiversity and pristine environment. 

The report analyses pressures from the extractive industry, urban activity, irrigation, and tourism, but highlights three main categories of concern:

1. Water Extraction: Water extraction for irrigation, urban supply, and industrial use is a major issue. Irrigation practices, carried out through irrigation channels based on the data collected, cover at least an area of 47,266 hectares, reducing natural flow and negatively affecting aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
2. Gravel Extraction: Intensive gravel extraction, with 36 plants identified along the river, of which 17 are active, 5 inactive, 5 abandoned, and only 2 rehabilitated. These activities have damaged the river’s morphology, natural habitats, and water quality.
3. Extractive and Processing Industry: Industrial activities include the extraction of oil, bitumen, limestone, and other minerals. The most affected area is Selenica, with 13 active mines and over 150 oil wells impacting the quality of water and surrounding soils.

The report emphasises the importance of immediate measures to reduce the negative impacts of these activities on the Vjosa Wild River National Park, including:

• Calculating and controlling water use volume for agricultural, industrial, and household purposes without compromising the ecological integrity of the park.
• Stopping illegal deposits of inert materials, rehabilitating damaged areas, and creating a plan to protect riparian vegetation.
• Eliminating mineral dumps near riverbanks, establishing a modern laboratory for monitoring discharges, and developing rehabilitation plans for degraded areas.

Full report: Mapping of pressures in Vjosa Wild River National Park

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