Restoration Of Damaged Ecosystem Services On Wetlands In Northern Part Of The Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain (Russia)

Abstract

Due to the regulation of the river Volga flow, expanding of the territories intended for construction and development of agriculture wetlands Volga-Akhtuba floodplain are being significantly transformed and are losing many of their qualities. Non-regulated loads lead to the break of natural physical and chemical characteristics of water bodies, loss of biodiversity, degradation of structure and functions of biological communities and, as a result, to decreasing of potential ecosystem services. Restoration of the lost qualities of water ecosystems is a key factor in increasing sustainability of reclaimed landscapes and creating comfortable conditions for living of locals and their economic activity. On the territory of the biosphere reserve “Nature park” “Volga-Akhtuba floodplain” a number of model sites were defined in order for research projects and practical work on restoration of degraded landscapes to be executed. The widest range of the lost ecosystem qualities is being restored during work on Lake Zapornoye. Restoration of ecosystem functions is being implemented according to the main economic activities carried out in this area. Ecosystem services of the area are specified in accordance with its functional purpose. The existing landscape and ecology conditions have been studied and estimated to see if the planned ecosystem services can be provided. The project suggests the following activities: restoration of hydro- morphological characteristics, reconstruction of habitats for biodiversity and their ecosystem services, improvement to restore and preserve recreational qualities of landscape. The project includes the monitoring the effectiveness of restoration. Monitoring program is based on indices of environmental assessment.