Support Ukraine’s First-Ever Nominee for the Dam Removal Award 2024

The Danube-Carpathian Programme (natureexperts.org) has been nominated for the Dam Removal Award 2024, marking the first-ever nomination from Ukraine.

Their project, “Three dam removals in Ukraine amidst wartime” (AA002), represents far more than dismantling obsolete barriers. It is a story of resilience, hope, and determination to restore nature under the extraordinary circumstances of a full-scale military conflict.

Key achievements include:

  • Removal of three century-old dams on the Kvasnyi, Bilyi, and Bohdan Rivers in the Upper Tisza catchment

  • Restoration of 200 km of free-flowing rivers within the UNESCO-listed Carpathian Biosphere Reserve

  • Reopened migration routes for eight IUCN Red List fish species and revival of valuable habitats

  • Reduction of flood risks and safeguarding of critical road infrastructure

  • Support for local communities in adopting a green economy

  • Protection of UNESCO World Heritage sites, despite wartime challenges

This pioneering initiative demonstrates that nature restoration remains possible even in conflict zones. It stands as a powerful symbol of courage, long-term vision, and international cooperation across the Carpathian region and beyond.

How to vote:

  1. Visit 👉 Vote here

  2. Select project AA002 – “Three dam removals in Ukraine amidst wartime”

  3. Click “Like”, enter your email to receive a confirmation code, verify, and submit

  4. ✅ A green “Like” confirms your vote

By casting your vote, you can help highlight this landmark achievement and support the vision of free-flowing, resilient rivers for the future. 

 Photo by Lesya Loyko