Restoring the Water Balance of Wetlands in Rivne Nature Reserve
Work has begun to rehabilitate the hydrological systems of two extensive wetlands, Syra Pohonia and Somyne, covering nearly 20,000 hectares within Ukraine’s Rivne Nature Reserve. This ambitious initiative marks the country’s first comprehensive project aimed at restoring the natural state of wetlands on such a large scale. Supported by the Frankfurt Zoological Society through the international "Wild Polissya" program, the project also involves legislative reforms to improve management of drainage infrastructure and incorporates scientific monitoring to track restoration success.
Current Progress and Future Plans
Efforts to reestablish the natural water flow are underway at Syra Pohonia and Somyne wetlands. So far, seven earthen dams have been constructed, and water passage structures are nearing completion at Somyne. Additionally, three wooden sluice gates are planned for installation on the same site. Following the transfer of the main canal’s oversight from the State Fisheries Agency to the Ministry of Economy, restoration will commence at Syra Pohonia. There, the project anticipates building:
- 2 water passage facilities;
- 10 earthen dams;
- 12 wooden sluice gates.
The full reconstruction of channels and dams across both wetlands aims to be completed by November 2026.
To ensure effective monitoring, 17 automatic sensors have been installed to measure groundwater levels, alongside 30 research plots established to observe changes in vegetation and hydrochemical conditions within the reserve. Recent legal updates—including Ukraine’s Law No. 4795-IX dated February 25, 2026, and government decree No. 1226 from October 7, 2026—have enhanced the management and decommissioning processes of drainage infrastructure, removing barriers to restoration efforts.
"Restoring wetlands is about more than preserving natural habitats. In the face of water scarcity and climate change, it’s vital for ecosystems to retain water, regulate its natural flow, and reduce drought and fire risks. Turning such projects into reality requires not only scientific research and international cooperation but also a solid regulatory framework. Legislative improvements help overcome practical obstacles to peatland restoration and create conditions where management decisions support water resource conservation,"
explained Iryna Ovcharenko, highlighting the project’s significance.
The restoration focuses on slowing water loss through drainage canals and reestablishing natural moisture levels, which are essential for maintaining the Rivne Nature Reserve’s delicate ecosystem.
This large-scale wetland rehabilitation represents a crucial step toward safeguarding biodiversity and water resources amid climate challenges. By combining international support, robust legislation, and advanced monitoring, the project sets a benchmark for similar conservation initiatives across Ukraine.