Climate change and the associated flood risks are placing increasing demands on regions near the Bodrog and Tisa rivers. In response to these challenges, partners from Slovakia and Hungary have launched a new project called FloodBOTI – Sustainable Flood Risk Management on the Bodrog and Tisa Rivers. This cross-border project aims to promote sustainable flood protection solutions, restore natural ecosystems, and create space for the exchange of best practices in water management.
Objectives and Significance of the FloodBOTI Project
The FloodBOTI project is a response to the rising risk of floods caused by extreme rainfall, the frequency and intensity of which are increasing due to climate change. Through this project, Slovakia and Hungary aim not only to protect against floods but also to restore natural floodplains, which historically served as natural flood defense mechanisms. In addition to flood protection, the project aims to increase biodiversity, restore wetlands and watercourses, and strengthen the resilience of the landscape to droughts.
Main Benefits of the Project:
- Improved flood protection: The revitalization of natural floodplains will contribute to more effective water retention and a reduction in flood risks.
- Ecosystem restoration: The project focuses on improving water quality and increasing biodiversity through the restoration of wetlands and natural watercourses.
- Water retention support: The construction of new weirs and the revitalization of wetlands will help the landscape retain water, which is crucial during periods of drought.
- Education and awareness: Involving schools and local communities in educational activities will raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection and waste management.
Key Measures on the Slovak and Hungarian Sides
The FloodBOTI project has clearly defined steps for floodplain protection. On the Hungarian side, the restoration of pastures (60 ha), planting of native tree species (20 ha), and the revitalization of wetlands covering 10 ha will take place. These measures are coordinated by the Northern Hungarian Water Directorate (ÉMVIZIG), which is also removing invasive plant species from endangered areas.
In Slovakia, the Slovak Water Management Company (SVP, state enterprise) will clear a 20 km section of the Bodrog River’s dead arm from invasive plant species. Additionally, two new weirs will be constructed on the Old Bodrog River, and one existing weir will be reconstructed. These measures will allow better water regime management in the area between the villages of Klin nad Bodrogom and Streda nad Bodrogom.
Joint Environmental Education
The Agency for Regional Development Košice (ARR) will lead several educational activities focused on nature conservation, waste management, and climate change adaptation. ARR plans two public clean-ups of the Bodrog Riverbanks, 15 educational events for schools, 5 lectures for municipalities, and two public eco-days. These activities are designed to raise environmental awareness among the region’s residents.
Funding and Timeline
The FloodBOTI project is co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg Hungary-Slovakia Program 2021-2027, covering nearly €1.12 million. The project started on July 1, 2024, and will run until the end of 2026. Over 30 months, the partners will implement measures that will create an ecologically stable environment and enhance resilience to climate change.
Importance of Cross-border Cooperation
The FloodBOTI project is an example of international partnership offering sustainable, nature-based solutions for floodplain protection. Cooperation between Slovakia and Hungary will ensure the exchange of best practices, strengthen environmental infrastructure, and improve the quality of life for local residents.
