The first Green Hatchery in Croatia has been opened in Jagodno, focusing on the restoration of the Danube floodplain ecosystems. This sustainable system for breeding native fish species is part of the EU project DaWetRest, which brings together 25 beneficiaries and 20 associated partners from 12 European countries. The project was presented by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture of the University of Zagreb and the Adriatic Innovation Center.
The Odra Sports Fishing Association from Velika Gorica, which manages 500 hectares of water in the area, is actively participating in the project. The association’s president, Ognjen Cahun, emphasized the importance of water protection and the creation of a sustainable ecosystem for the production of native fish species, in line with European Union recommendations.
The hatchery is located in Jagodno, near the Ires Institute, which oversees fish production and quantity. The project has received support from state institutions and the European Union, while association members, enthusiasts, and experts have invested significant effort in its realization.
The Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Zdenko Tonković, highlighted that the faculty is actively developing research to address the challenges of the 21st century. Participation in such projects allows students and scientists to experiment, research, and learn for a better future.
Member of the European Parliament, Željana Zovko, praised the efforts of the local community in attracting funding from European programs. She emphasized that such projects create new expertise, support the local community, and attract scientific innovation that transforms Croatia on the ground.
The opening of the Green Hatchery in Jagodno represents a significant step towards the conservation and restoration of the Danube floodplain ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and the sustainable development of the region.