In the heart of Hortobágy and Nagykunság, a large-scale conservation project could bring new life to the drying wetlands. Supported by the European Union, this initiative aimed to restore the region’s ecosystem by ensuring a sustainable water supply, thus preserving the rich biodiversity of local flora and fauna.
Wetlands are not only stunning natural treasures but also play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and the natural water cycle. However, due to climate change and human intervention, many of these areas have dried up or significantly shrunk in recent decades.
The Hortobágy National Park Directorate’s project has improved water supply, creating a more stable environment for local wildlife, mitigating the effects of drying, and making the area’s ecological condition more sustainable. One of the key elements of this complex habitat restoration was increasing water retention—ensuring that rainwater remains in the area for a longer period. To achieve this, extensive water management developments were carried out across 21 project sites. These included the construction, renovation, or modification of 81 structures—such as sluices and culverts—as well as the creation and restoration of 5,500 meters of earthworks to support the natural movement of water. Additionally, 2,100 meters of earth channels were dredged to improve drainage and water retention while reducing obstacles to natural water flow. This process helped minimize damage to grassland surfaces caused by human activities.
These measures have affected more than 1,200 hectares of land, creating a 40-kilometer-long interconnected wetland network of significant conservation value. This restored habitat can ensure the long-term preservation of numerous protected and highly protected species. A fundamental ecological principle states that the most effective way to protect species is through habitat conservation.
The restoration benefits not only nature but also the local environment. The project is expected to help stabilize groundwater levels, reducing the negative impacts of drought periods. Additionally, by promoting sustainable land use, it can strengthen long-term cooperation between local farmers and conservation experts. This development offers hope that the wetlands of Hortobágy and Nagykunság will once again thrive with life, allowing future generations to witness and cherish this unique natural heritage.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project KEHOP-4.1.0-15-2016-00018 under the Environmental and Energy Efficiency Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder: Details
