Srebarna Nature Reserve
Country
Bulgaria
Inscribed in
1983
Criterion
(x)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "good with some concerns" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
The Srebarna Nature Reserve is a freshwater lake adjacent to the Danube and extending over 600 ha. It is the breeding ground of almost 100 species of birds, many of which are rare or endangered. Some 80 other bird species migrate and seek refuge there every winter. Among the most interesting bird species are the Dalmatian pelican, great egret, night heron, purple heron, glossy ibis and white spoonbill. © UNESCO
Summary
2020 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
02 Dec 2020
Good with some concerns
Current state and trend of VALUES
Low Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
An important wetland on the Western Palaearctic bird migratory flyway
Criterion
(x)
Srebarna Nature Reserve is an important wetland on the Western Palaearctic bird migratory flyway. It provides nesting grounds for 99 species of birds and seasonal habitat to around 80 species of migratory birds. The rich bird life supported by Srebarna Nature Reserve is the basis for its international significance. The property holds populations of some birds that are considered critical to species survival (World Heritage Committee, 2009).
Dalmatian Pelican, Pelecanus crispus
Criterion
(x)
The property hosts the only breeding colony of the Dalmatian Pelican in Bulgaria (WHC 1983a, WHC 1983b, WHC 2009, Michev and Simeonov 2011, Michev and Kamburova 2012). The Dalmatian Pelican is classified globally Vulnerable, with a decreasing population trend (IUCN 2017). The population of this species in Bulgaria is classified in the category Critically Endangered (Michev and Simeonov 2011). The property hosts 100 % of the national breeding population: at the average, in the property there were 67 breeding pairs for the period 1954-2005 (Michev and Simeonov 2011) and 108 breeding pairs for the period 2007-2011 (Michev and Kamburova 2012). During the breeding season the colony forages in the adjacent wetlands along the Danube river in Romania: Lacul Mostiştea, Lacul Gălățui, Iezerul Călăraşi and Ciocăneşti Dunăre (Michev and Kamburova 2012). Some 200 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (Michev and Kamburova 2012).
Pygmy Cormorant, Phalacrocorax pygmeus
Criterion
(x)
The property hosts the largest and most stable breeding colony of the Pygmy Cormorant in Bulgaria (WHC 2009, Nikolov et al. 2011). Globally, the Pygmy Cormorant is Least Concerned (IUCN 2017) whereas the population in Bulgaria is classified in the category Endangered (Nikolov et al. 2011). The property hosts 180/60-300 breeding pairs, 37/3-70 wintering individuals and 9/2-17 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (EEA 2013). The bottom-growing reedbeds microhabitat, found in all littoral parts of the Srebarna Lake, is the breeding habitat for the Pygmy Cormorant (Kambourova 2012).
Ferruginous Duck, Aythya nyroca
Criterion
(x)
The property hosts the largest and most stable breeding colony of the Ferruginous Duck in Bulgaria (World Heritage Committee, 2009, Cheshmedziev 2012). Globally, the Ferruginous Duck is classified as Near Threatened, with a decreasing population trend (IUCN 2017), whereas the population in Bulgaria is classified in the category Vulnerable (Petkov 2011). The property hosts 25-40 breeding pairs (>15% of the breeding population in Bulgaria; Cheshmedziev 2012); the number of wintering individuals is small (2). Data on number of individuals that stage in the property during the migration season vary.
Eurasian Spoonbill, Platalea leucorodia
Criterion
(x)
The Eurasian Spoonbill is a species of pan-European conservation importance - rare (BirdLife International 2004, WHC 2009). The population of this species is concentrated in Europe and has unfavourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Eurasian Spoonbill is Least Concern (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Critically Endangered (Boev and Michev 2011). There are 20-24 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (100 -15% of the national population), and 18/7-30 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (EEA 2013).
Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus
Criterion
(x)
The Glossy Ibis is a species of pan-European conservation concern - rare (BirdLife International 2004, WHC 2009). The population of the Glossy Ibis is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Glossy Ibis is Least Concern; the population is decreasing (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Critically Endangered (Michev et al. 2011a). There are 19/10-28 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone and 100 wintering individuals (EEA 2013).
Purple Heron, Ardea purpurea
Criterion
(x)
The Purple Heron is a species of European conservation concern (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The population of the Purple Heron is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Purple Heron is Least Concern; the population is decreasing (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Endangered (Boev et al. 2011). There are 8-50 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone.
Ruddy Shelduck, Tadorna ferruginea
Criterion
(x)
The Ruddy Shelduck is a species of pan-European conservation concern (BirdLife International 2004, WHC 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Ruddy Shelduck is Least Concern (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Critically Endangered (Zehtindjiev et al. 2011). According to the EEA (2013), there are 2/0-4 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone, and 9/1-17 individuals stage at the property during the migration season. However, according to Zehtindjiev et al. (2011), about half of the national breeding population inhabits the open terrains of Northeastern Bulgaria and the largest densities of breeding habitats are around the town of Glavinitsa, Silistra region. This species also breeds in the region around Burgas and in the microreservoirs near Karnobat and Aytos; the property is not mentioned as a current breeding site (Zehtindjiev et al. 2011).
Little Bittern, Ixobrychus minutus
Criterion
(x)
The Little Bittern is a species of pan-European conservation concern (BirdLife International 2004, WHC 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Little Bittern is classified by IUCN in the category Least Concern; the population is decreasing (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Endangered (Boev 2011a). There are 50/30-70 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone, which represents a small share of the national population (EEA 2013).
Squacco Heron, Ardeola ralloides
Criterion
(x)
The Squacco Heron is a species of pan-European conservation concern - rare (BirdLife International 2004, WHC 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Squacco Heron is classified as Least Concern; the population trend is unknown (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Endangered (Michev 2011a). There are 115/30-200 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (15-2 % of the national population; EEA 2013).
Little Egret, Egretta garzetta
Criterion
(x)
The Little Egret is a species of European conservation concern (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe, and has otherwise favourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Little Egret is Least Concern; the population is increasing (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified as Vulnerable (Michev 2011b). There are 130/60-200 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (EEA 2013).
Great White Egret, Casmerodius albus
Criterion
(x)
The Great White Egret is a species of European conservation concern (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe and has otherwise favourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Great White Egret is Least Concern (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified as Critically Endangered (Michev 2011d). There are 7/2-12 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (the only breeding population in Bulgaria), 2/0-5 wintering individuals, and 10 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (Kambourova 2005; EEA 2013).
Whiskered Tern, Chlidonias hybridus
Criterion
(x)
The Whiskered Tern is a species of European conservation concern (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). In Bulgaria this species is classified as Vulnerable (Vasilev and Ivanov 2011), while it is considered Least Concern globally (IUCN, 2017). There are 120/40-200 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone, and 9/1-17 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (EEA 2013).
Black Tern, Chlidonias niger
Criterion
(x)
The Black Tern is a species of European conservation concern (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The population of this species is not concentrated in Europe, but has unfavourable conservation status at pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Black Tern is classified by IUCN in the category Least Concern; the population is decreasing (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is Critically Endangered (Ivanov 2011). There are 5/0-9 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone, and 1,100 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (EEA 2013).
White-tailed Eagle, Haliaeetus albicilla
Criterion
(x)
The property was considered as a site of the largest breeding population of the White-tailed Eagle in Bulgaria (World Heritage Committee, 2009). Globally, the White-tailed Eagle is classified by IUCN in the category Least Concern (IUCN 2017), whereas the population in Bulgaria is classified in the category Vulnerable (Ivanov et al. 2011). According to EEA (2013), there is one breeding pair in the property and its buffer zone. However, other sources on the occurrence of this species on the territory of the property and its vicinity do not support this claim. For instance, Kambourova (2012) has not observed this species in the property or its vicinity during her ornithological study from 2004-2006. According to Ivanov (2007), a pair bred in the nearby islands of Vetren/Bialata (Romania) and Devnja (Bulgaria) in the Danube until 1967. Since the late 1980s, some individuals regularly rest in the island of Vetren and hunt in Lake Srebarna, indicating the presence of a breeding pair in the island of Vetren, that is, in the vicinity of the property, outside its buffer zone (Ivanov 2007).
Corncrake, Crex crex
Criterion
(x)
The property was considered as a site of the largest breeding population of the Corncrake in Bulgaria (World Heritage Committee, 2009). Globally, the Corncrake is classified by IUCN as Least Concern (IUCN 2017), whereas the population in Bulgaria is classified as Vulnerable (Delov 2011). According to the EEA (2013) there are 3 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone. However, other sources on the occurrence of this species on the territory of the property and its vicinity do not support this claim. For instance, Kambourova (2012) has not observed this species in the property or its vicinity during her ornithological study from 2004-2006. According to Delov (2011), the more significant habitats of this species are found in the Sofia region, the Western and the Central Balkan range, Ponor Mountain, and along the Tran-Breznik line to the state border. The species has comparatively low numbers along the Danube banks and the Black Sea coast, in Dobrudzha and the Eastern Rhodopes (Delov 2011).
Greylag Goose, Anser anser
Criterion
(x)
The wintering population of the Greylag Goose has a notable presence in the property (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The population of the Greylag Goose is not concentrated in Europe and has otherwise favourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Greylag Goose is classified by IUCN in the category Least Concern; the population is increasing (IUCN 2012). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Endangered (Ivanov and Dereliev 2011). There are 3/2-5 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone, 43/20-800 wintering individuals, and some 500 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (EEA 2013).
Red-breasted Goose, Branta ruficollis
Criterion
(x)
The property is a wintering site for the globally threatened Red-breasted Goose (WHC 2009). Globally, the species is classified by IUCN in the category Vulnerable (IUCN 2017). The population of this species in Bulgaria is also classified in the category Vulnerable (Dereliev and Simeonov 2011). The property hosts less than 2% of the national wintering population (4/0-60 individuals; EEA 2013).
Fieldfare, Turdus pilaris
Criterion
(x)
The wintering population of the Fieldfare has a notable presence in the property (World Heritage Committee, 2009). The wintering population of the Fieldfare is concentrated in Europe and has favourable conservation status at the pan-European level (BirdLife International 2004). Globally, the Fieldfare is classified by IUCN in the category Least Concern; the population is stable (IUCN 2017). The property hosts less than 2% of the national wintering population – 7,500 individuals (EEA 2013).
Other bird species
The Saker Falcon is a species of global conservation concern. It is classified by IUCN as globally threatened in the category Endangered (IUCN 2012). The population of this species in Bulgaria is classified in the category Critically Endangered (Domuschiev et al. 2011). There are 0-1 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (2-0 % of the national population; EEA 2013). The White Stork is classified in Bulgaria in the category Vulnerable (Petrov et al. 2011a). There are 2/1-3 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (2-0 % of the national population), and 1000 individuals stage at the property during the migration season (EEA 2013). Black Stork is classified in the category Critically Endangered (Petrov et al. 2011b). There are 30 individuals in the property and its buffer zone during the migration season (between 2 and 0 % of the national population; EEA 2013). There are 15/10-20 breeding pairs of Lesser Grey Shrike in the property and its buffer zone (2-0 % of the national population; EEA 2013) and 1-2 breeding pairs of Wood Lark. Night Heron is classified in Bulgaria in the category Vulnerable (Michev et al. 2011b). There are 75/50-100 breeding pairs in the property and its buffer zone (15-2 % of the national population; EEA 2013). Eurasian Eagle Owl is a species of pan-European conservation importance. Globally, the Eurasian Eagle Owl is classified by IUCN in the category Least Concern; but the population is decreasing (IUCN 2012). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Endangered (Boev et al. 2011b). There is a pair which resides in the property and its buffer zone throughout the year (EEA 2013).
Mammal species
The Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) is a species of European conservation concern, classified as Near Threatened globally (Temple and Terry 2007, IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Vulnerable (Spiridonov and Spassov 2011a). There are 6/7 resident individuals in the property and its buffer zone (EEA 2013). The Marbled Polecat (Vormela peregusna) is a species of European conservation concern, globally Vulnerable; the population trend is decreasing (Temple and Terry 2007, IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria, the Marbled Polecat is also classified in the category Vulnerable (Spiridonov and Spassov 2011b). The property and its buffer zone host between 2-0 % of the national population (EEA 2013).
Amphibians and reptiles
The Hermann's Tortoise and the Spur-thighed Tortoise are both species of European conservation concern, classified in the category Near Threatened amd Vulnerable, respectively (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria, these species are classified in the category Endangered (Beschkov 2011a). Both species are resident species in the property and its buffer zone (EEA 2013). The Danube Crested Newt (Triturus dobrogicus) is a species of European conservation concern, classified as Near Threatened; the population has a decreasing trend (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified in the category Vulnerable (Beschkov 2011d). The Danube Crested Newt is a resident species in the property and its buffer zone (EEA 2013).
Fish species
The Ukranian Stickleback (Pungitius platygaster) is a species of European conservation concern, and globally Least Concern (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria this species is classified as Endangered (Stefanov and Trichkova 2011c). It has recently become extremely rare there, showing a continuous decline of its range; the property hosts a significant share of the national population (Stefanov and Trichkova 2011c). The European Mudminnow (Umbra krameri) is globally Vulnerable (IUCN 2017) and nationally Critically Endangered (Stefanov and Trichkova 2011b). It is a resident species; its population in the property and buffer zone accounts for 15-2% of the national population (EEA 2013).
Waterwheel, Aldrovanda vesiculosa
The Waterwheel is globally Endangered, with a decreasing population trend (IUCN 2017). In Bulgaria, this species is classified as Critically Endangered (Meshinev 2011).The property hosts the only population of the species in Bulgaria (EEA 2013, Meshinev 2011, Valchev et al. 2012).
Assessment information
A number of current threats to the values of the World Heritage site are related to the on-going active management of the hydrological conditions in and around the site. Existing dikes between Lake Srebarna and the River Danube, along with hydropower dams on the Danube, disturb the natural hydrological connectivity between the two water bodies. The altered water circulation has triggered significant ecosystem change with substantial expansion of Grey Willow and the build-up of biomass and accumulation of organic matter, affecting the lifecycle of many species. Decreased seasonal flooding has turned the Srebarna wetlands into a sediment and nutrient trap. Nutrient influx from domestic wastewater and agriculture in the catchment is contributing to an accelerating eutrophication, posing a very high threat to the World Heritage site. It is hoped that the construction of an additional canal linking the site with the River Danube will help to alleviate these issues.
Another set of clear threats is related to poaching. Commercial as well as illegal fishing in particular persists as a threat to the values of the World Heritage site, affecting both nesting and wintering birds, food availability for fish-feeding birds and results in entanglement and drowning of many species. Invasive aliens species and pressure from predators pose minor threat to the nesting colonies of some birds, most notably the Dalmatian Pelican and Pygmy Cormorant. The threats in the area beyond the site and the surrounding buffer zone pose additional risks to its values and the integrity, but currently their impacts are moderate and reversible.
Since the threats related to the hydrological regime of Srebarna Nature Reserve itself - including the related eutrophication problem - and to the hydrological regime of the Danube River on which it depends, as well as threats from illegal fishing, have been assessed as "High", the overall assessment of current threats is "High".
Another set of clear threats is related to poaching. Commercial as well as illegal fishing in particular persists as a threat to the values of the World Heritage site, affecting both nesting and wintering birds, food availability for fish-feeding birds and results in entanglement and drowning of many species. Invasive aliens species and pressure from predators pose minor threat to the nesting colonies of some birds, most notably the Dalmatian Pelican and Pygmy Cormorant. The threats in the area beyond the site and the surrounding buffer zone pose additional risks to its values and the integrity, but currently their impacts are moderate and reversible.
Since the threats related to the hydrological regime of Srebarna Nature Reserve itself - including the related eutrophication problem - and to the hydrological regime of the Danube River on which it depends, as well as threats from illegal fishing, have been assessed as "High", the overall assessment of current threats is "High".
Recreational Activities
(Walking and cycling)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Recreation and tourism activities disturb the nesting population of the Spoonbill (Triplet et al. 2008). According to EEA (2013) walking and cycling have low and negative influence in small parts of the property and its buffer zone.
Residential Areas
(Continuous urbanization of villages and other types of human habitation)
Outside site
The area around the property covered by human settlements with houses and yards has increased by 156% since 1948; the trend continues (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). These changes have had significant impact on habitats size and quality in the area around the property and its buffer zone (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). The current urbanized area is not habitable by many mammals, reptiles and amphibians (Biserkov 2012, Biserkov and Naumov 2012). These developments also affect the ecological connectivity of ecosystems in the property with those in the surrounding area. According to EEA (2013) urbanised areas and human habitation (including such effects as disturbance, resource use, noise and pollution which are threated here in other threat categories) have high, but neutral influence on the area around the property and its buffer zone.
Crops
(Wheat/maize/sunflower farms)
Outside site
Since 1948, the area around the property covered by non-irrigated farmland has increased by 919%; the trend continues (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). Those modifications and the consolidation of areas under cultivation have created marginally suitable or unsuitable habitats for the mammal, reptilian and amphibian populations around the property and its buffer zone (Biserkov 2012, Biserkov and Naumov 2012). Agricultural expansion affects the quality of habitat suitable for the Eurasian Spoonbill around the property and its buffer zone (Triplet et al. 2008). According to EEA (2013) agricultural cultivation (in general) has medium negative level of influence on some 5% of territory of the buffer zone of the property.
Crops
(Vineyards/apricot orchards)
Outside site
Since 1948, the area around the property covered by Vineyards has increased by 157%; the current trend is unknown (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). Those modifications have created marginally suitable or unsuitable habitats for the mammal, reptilian and amphibian populations around the property and its buffer zone (Biserkov 2012, Biserkov and Naumov 2012). Agricultural expansion affects the quality of habitat suitable for the Eurasian Spoonbill around the property and its buffer zone (Triplet et al. 2008). According to EEA (2013) agricultural cultivation (in general) has medium negative level of influence on some 5% of territory of the buffer zone of the property.
Hunting and trapping
(Illegal hunting)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Goose- and duck hunters often shoot from a pier or a boat on the Danube (CLGE 2001). The Greylag Goose and other species are disturbed by hunters (Ivanov and Dereliev 2011). In the recent years, threats posed by hunting have increased due to lack of control, surveillance and law enforcement (IUCN Consultation, 2020; Management Plan, 2016).
Forestry/ Wood production
(Timber species plantations, particularly conifers)
Outside site
The area under coniferous plantations around the property and its buffer zone has expanded significantly in the past (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). This has created marginally suitable or unsuitable habitats for the mammal, reptilian and amphibian populations around the property and its buffer zone (Biserkov 2012, Biserkov and Naumov 2012).
Roads, Trails & Railroads
(Road and highway network development)
Outside site
Since 1948, the area covered by the road and highway network (1st to 4th grade) in the area around the property has increased by 240%; the trend continues (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). This area is certainly no suitable as a habitat for all mammal, reptile and amphibian species present in the property and its surrounding area (Biserkov 2012, Biserkov and Naumov 2012). The gravel road around the property contributes to wildlife disturbance by noise, cars, recreationists and poachers (IUCN Consultation 2013). Concerning the measures for the protection of the Great Bittern in Bulgaria, Shurulinkov (2012) recommends speed reduction and control along the road from Silistra to Ruse, in the section close to the property. Infrastructure in general is mentioned as a threat to Eurasian Spoonbill (Triplet et al. 2008) and EEA (2013) reports high influence from transport networks in the area outside the property and its buffer zone, although this is classified as neutral.
The construction of roads and the long delay in constructing roadside ditches has led to erosion and runoff of large amounts of sediments into the lake (Management Plan, 2016).
The construction of roads and the long delay in constructing roadside ditches has led to erosion and runoff of large amounts of sediments into the lake (Management Plan, 2016).
Fishing, Harvesting & Controlling Aquatic Species
(Commercial fishing)
Outside site
Many individuals of the Ferruginous Duck get entangled and drowned in fishnets while diving/foraging in the Danube or the neighbouring wetlands and fishponds in Romania (Cheshmedziev 2012). Due to commercial fishing in the area surrounding the property and its buffer zone, the quantity of fish available to waterfowl is reduced. This forces the birds to forage in other areas (e.g. in Romania) which is more energy demanding (IUCN Consultation 2013). According to EEA (2013) commercial fishing has high negative influence in the area around the property and its buffer zone.
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Dams in Lake Srebarna watershed)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The natural hydrology in the watershed of the property has been significantly modified through construction of nine dams (Nikolova et al. 2010), as well as the draining of the Aydemir Lowland (EU 2015). Surface runoff in the catchment does not form even temporary flows and as the dams capture much of the water generated by the catchment, the supply to the lake has been significantly reduced compared to 60 years ago (Management Plan, 2016).
According to EEA (2013) the modifying structures of inland water courses have medium negative influence on the area surrounding the property and its buffer zone.
According to EEA (2013) the modifying structures of inland water courses have medium negative influence on the area surrounding the property and its buffer zone.
Water-borne & other effluent Pollution
(Increased nutrient and sediment influx and retention due to changed hydrological regime)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Siltation and eutrophication resulting from increased sediment and nutrient input and retention are very serious threats, which
compromises ecosystem function and accelerates the process of succession of the lake ecosystem to swamp to mire to wet meadow (LT Konsult Ltd. 2012, Kamburova 2012, EU 2015). The construction of dykes between the River Danube and Lake Srebarna has reduced the connectivity with the river and decelerated the flushing out of sediment and organic matter from the lake. Excessive development of reeds, caused by the decreased water circulation, risk to overload the ecosystem with organic matter and cause oxygen deficits when decomposing. Nutrient inputs have increased from wastewater deriving from the village of Srebarna and runoff from surrounding agriculture, leading to the siltation and fast eutrophication of the lake. In addition, large quantities of excavated soil from road constructions are flushed into the lake with surface water runoff during flooding (Management Plan, 2016). According to EEA (2013) eutrophication has high negative influence on 50% of the territory of the property and its buffer zone.
compromises ecosystem function and accelerates the process of succession of the lake ecosystem to swamp to mire to wet meadow (LT Konsult Ltd. 2012, Kamburova 2012, EU 2015). The construction of dykes between the River Danube and Lake Srebarna has reduced the connectivity with the river and decelerated the flushing out of sediment and organic matter from the lake. Excessive development of reeds, caused by the decreased water circulation, risk to overload the ecosystem with organic matter and cause oxygen deficits when decomposing. Nutrient inputs have increased from wastewater deriving from the village of Srebarna and runoff from surrounding agriculture, leading to the siltation and fast eutrophication of the lake. In addition, large quantities of excavated soil from road constructions are flushed into the lake with surface water runoff during flooding (Management Plan, 2016). According to EEA (2013) eutrophication has high negative influence on 50% of the territory of the property and its buffer zone.
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Hydropower and water level management of Danube)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The construction of Iron Gates I and II hydropower dams on the River Danube lowered the river erosion basis and the frequency of (seasonal) flooding of the property which, in effect, disturbs the natural hydrological connectivity of the property with the river. In practice, the regulated water regime and deepening of the river bed has created a one-way connection between the Danube and Lake Srebarn, triggering significant changes in its ecosystem, including nutrient and sediment accumulation (Christensen and Rossler, 1998, Vasilev et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013, EU 2015).
Household Sewage/ Urban Waste Water
(Household wastewater from Srebarna)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
In 2003 began the construction of a treatment plant for the wastewater from Srebarna village. However, due to the small number of households in the village the volume of wastewater was not sufficient to effectively operate the sewage system, leading to formation of compacted effluent in the sewers. Over the years, the sewage started to fill up and during heavy rains the collector shafts overflow, discharging untreated water into Lake Srebarna and thus contributing to its fast eutrophication (IUCN Consultation 2013; Management Plan, 2016). Monitoring results have shown a significant load of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds in the lake water. There is no data on the volume of wastewater flowing into the lake, but it is urgent to put the treatment plant into full operation, to protect the collectors against overflow and stop the discharge of untreated wastewater into Srebarna (Management Plan, 2016).
Agricultural effluents
(Wastewater from Kalnezha pig farm)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Nutrients from the pig farm near Kalnezha reach Lake Srebarna via the River Kalnezha and groundwater, and thus contribute to the eutrophication of the lake (RIS 2002, Kraleva et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013).
Utility & Service Lines
(Power Lines)
Outside site
EEA (2013) reports high influence from electricity lines on the area outside the property and its buffer zone, although this is classified as neutral. The 2017 status report for the Dalmatin Pelican also ranks collision with power lines as a high threat to these birds in Bulgaria (Catsadorakis and Portolou, 2017). However, no specific information is available on the effects of the values of the property.
Hunting and trapping
(Recreational (illegal) hunting)
Outside site
The principal game species around the property and its buffer zone are the Wild Boar, Hare, Ring-necked Pheasant, Greylag Goose, and Quail (CLGE 2001). According to Ivanov and Dereliev (2011) hunting disturbs the Greylag Goose wintering population; poaching (including both illegal hunting and illegal fishing) as an important source of disturbance for all wildlife (IUCN Consultation, 2013). In the recent years, threats posed by hunting have increased due to lack of control, surveillance and law enforcement. A new scheme is needed to protect and combat poaching in the property (IUCN Consultation, 2020; Management Plan, 2016).
Unknown Threats
(Poisoning of rodents)
Outside site
In the past, one of the reasons for the decrease of bird species composition and abundance in the property were the direct and indirect toxic effects of rodenticides applied in 1989 (Michev et al. 1998). In 2003, three Lesser White-fronted Geese were found dead at Srebarna among 123 dead Greater White-fronted Geese; it is thought the birds had been poisoned by rodenticides, either in Bulgaria or Romania (Jones et al. 2008).
Problematic Native Species
(Significant predator pressure)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
The pressure from predators (wild boars in particular, but also jackals, crows, foxes) account (partly) for the low success of the chicks of the Dalmatian Pelican at the property (destroying nests with eggs or killing chicks; Crivelli 1996, Triplet et al. 2008, Michev and Kamburova 2012). If there is a long-term drought in the area and no measures are taken to improve the water balance of the lake, many of the floating reed islands take root, making the nests accessible to predators (Management Plan, 2016). This has been (partly) resolved with the construction of artificial (wooden) platforms for nesting and fences around the colonies (Simeonov 2011).
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Management of riparian vegetation)
Outside site
Valuable habitats are lost due to the removal of riparian vegetation around the farms in the vicinity of the property and its buffer zone (MoEW et al. 2012, Biserkov 2012). According to EEA (2013) management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage purposes have medium negative influence in the area surrounding the property and its buffer zone.
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Groundwater extraction in Lake Srebarna watershed)
Outside site
Groundwater plays an important role in the maintenance of the water level in the property (Nikolova et al. 2010). For the restoration of the water balance in the lake it is necessary to limit the groundwater consumption in the catchment of the lake (Vasilev et al. 2012).
Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Invasive and other problematic plant species)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Forest formation of the Grey Willow combined with hydrophyte formations are key factor for the degradation of the lake (closing off of water body, increasing of bottom substrate etc.; Zhelezov 2010, Kamburova 2012).
The fast spread of the Grey Willow is a consequence of deteriorated water circulation in the property and accumulation of sediments. Over the last 20 years, the percentage of Grey Willow has grown from 5% to more than 55%. In addition, most of the willows are over 10 years old and their biomass is significantly higher than that of the reeds they have replaced (Management Plan, 2016).
The Silver berry outcompetes the local and typical species and causes fragmentation of the reed bed where Dalmatian Pelicans and other fish-feeding birds breed (MoEW et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013). The ecological change in the property is also brought about by the forestation and afforestation of extensive areas in the vicinity of the property using alien tree species, such as Austrian Pine, Hybrid Poplar, Black Locust, Common Gloxinia, and Oleaster (IUCN Consultation 2013). According to EEA (2013) invasion by exotic species has medium negative influence on the property and its buffer zone.
The fast spread of the Grey Willow is a consequence of deteriorated water circulation in the property and accumulation of sediments. Over the last 20 years, the percentage of Grey Willow has grown from 5% to more than 55%. In addition, most of the willows are over 10 years old and their biomass is significantly higher than that of the reeds they have replaced (Management Plan, 2016).
The Silver berry outcompetes the local and typical species and causes fragmentation of the reed bed where Dalmatian Pelicans and other fish-feeding birds breed (MoEW et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013). The ecological change in the property is also brought about by the forestation and afforestation of extensive areas in the vicinity of the property using alien tree species, such as Austrian Pine, Hybrid Poplar, Black Locust, Common Gloxinia, and Oleaster (IUCN Consultation 2013). According to EEA (2013) invasion by exotic species has medium negative influence on the property and its buffer zone.
Solid Waste
(Household waste from Srebarna and floating waste from the Danube)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
The illegal dumping of household waste form the village of Srebarna is a source of organic pollution of the property, and thus contributes to its fast eutrophication (RIS 2002, MoEW et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013, Birds in Bulgaria 2013). It also introduces many alien plant species in the property and its buffer zone (Birds in Bulgaria 2013). Some household waste is also washed into the property by heavy rains from an old landfill site outside the village of Srebarna. Floating waste, mainly plastics, brought in with high waters from the Danube can be limited by periodic collection and removal (Management Plan, 2016).
Identity/social cohesion/ changes in local population and community that result in negative impact
(Poverty)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
Increased illegal fishing is related to poverty among the local residents (CLGE 2001). The decline of traditional activities in recent decades and the lack of alternative employment are at the root causes of low incomes. Low incomes and lack of local capital are serious constraints to achieving both conservation goals and sustainable development (Management Plan, 2016).
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Structures controlling the seasonal flooding of Srebarna from the Danube river)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
The existing dams along the Danube disturb the natural hydrological connectivity of the property with the river. This has triggered significant changes in the ecosystem (Triplet et al. 2008, Kalchev et al. 2010, IUCN Consultation 2013), and has turned the Srebarna wetlands into a nutrient trap (EU 2015). In the long-term, the disturbance of the water regime could lead to deterioration and even loss of valuable habitats in the property (Kalchev et al. 2012, BSPB 2013). According to EEA (2013) dams have high negative influence on some 60% of the property and its buffer zone.
The construction of dikes in 1979 and 1994 practically interrupted the possibility of water flowing from the lake to the Danube. This seasonal flooding used to remove sediments and nutrients from the lake and maintained the riverine forests on the island (BSPB 2013). The bottom changed from hard and sandy to become muddy and unstable. As biomass builds up and water circulation decreases, many of the floating reed islands take root, making the nests of waterfowl and wading birds accessible to predators. Demolition of the dikes would be an important measure to address these threats and partly restore the natural hydrological regime. However, due to socio-economic factors it is only feasible to remove a short section of the 1979 dike (Management Plan, 2016).
The construction of dikes in 1979 and 1994 practically interrupted the possibility of water flowing from the lake to the Danube. This seasonal flooding used to remove sediments and nutrients from the lake and maintained the riverine forests on the island (BSPB 2013). The bottom changed from hard and sandy to become muddy and unstable. As biomass builds up and water circulation decreases, many of the floating reed islands take root, making the nests of waterfowl and wading birds accessible to predators. Demolition of the dikes would be an important measure to address these threats and partly restore the natural hydrological regime. However, due to socio-economic factors it is only feasible to remove a short section of the 1979 dike (Management Plan, 2016).
Agricultural effluents
(Run-off from agricultural fields in the Lake Srebarna watershed)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Nutrients and pesticides from the farms throughout the watershed reach Lake Srebarna via surface water (e.g. the River Kalnezha) and groundwater, and thus contribute to its fast eutrophication (RIS 2002, Kraleva et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013). According to EEA (2013) water pollution has low negative influence on some 50% of the territory of the property and its buffer zone and medium negative influence in their surrounding areas.
Soil erosion and heavy rainfall led to the uprooting of some vineyards in 2014, followed by sediment runoff into the lake. Extracted biomass, detritus and sludge from the lake could be used to restore soil fertility of eroded lands (Management Plan, 2016).
Soil erosion and heavy rainfall led to the uprooting of some vineyards in 2014, followed by sediment runoff into the lake. Extracted biomass, detritus and sludge from the lake could be used to restore soil fertility of eroded lands (Management Plan, 2016).
Fishing, Harvesting & Controlling Aquatic Species
(Illegal fishing (subsistence/recreational))
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Birds, otters and terrapins get entangled and drowned in fishnets while diving (Robinson and Hughes 2005, Cheshmedziev 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013, Birds in Bulgaria 2013).
Due to the lack of direct data on the quantities of fish caught by poachers, as well as the lack of data on catches of legal sport fishing in designated areas, the extent of overfishing in the lake is difficult to estimate (Management Plan, 2016). However, it is assumed that illegal fishing in the property and its buffer zone, has contributed to a decrease in the quantity of fish available to waterfowl, forcing some birds to forage in other areas (e.g. in Romania) which is more energy demanding (IUCN Consultation 2013). Illegal fishing is a source of disturbance to the Greylag Goose (Ivanov and Dereliev 2011), Spoongbill (Triplet et al. 2008), other waterfowl (MoEW et al. 2012) and wildlife in general (IUCN Consultation 2013). The impact to waterfowl is particularly high during the nesting period (Cheshmedziev 2012). According to EEA (2013), trapping, poisoning, and poaching (including illegal fishing) have medium negative influence on 80% of the territory of the property and its buffer zone.
Due to the lack of direct data on the quantities of fish caught by poachers, as well as the lack of data on catches of legal sport fishing in designated areas, the extent of overfishing in the lake is difficult to estimate (Management Plan, 2016). However, it is assumed that illegal fishing in the property and its buffer zone, has contributed to a decrease in the quantity of fish available to waterfowl, forcing some birds to forage in other areas (e.g. in Romania) which is more energy demanding (IUCN Consultation 2013). Illegal fishing is a source of disturbance to the Greylag Goose (Ivanov and Dereliev 2011), Spoongbill (Triplet et al. 2008), other waterfowl (MoEW et al. 2012) and wildlife in general (IUCN Consultation 2013). The impact to waterfowl is particularly high during the nesting period (Cheshmedziev 2012). According to EEA (2013), trapping, poisoning, and poaching (including illegal fishing) have medium negative influence on 80% of the territory of the property and its buffer zone.
Air Pollution
(Industrial air-borne pollutants)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The property is situated in the sphere of influence of industrial zones of Silistra, Calarash and Ruse (Ivanceva et. al. 2006, Hiebaum et al. 2012). According to EEA (2013) industrial pollution has low negative influence on the property and its buffer zone.
Solid Waste
(Garbage from visitors, particularly fisherfolk)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
Fishermen often improperly dispose plastic bags and other kinds of waste in the property, adding to the nutrient load of the lake (IUCN Consultation 2013). Reportedly decreasing trend (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Efforts are made to remove the accumulated waste, but without the participation of the users themselves (locals, tourists, fishermen) pollution cannot be completely prevented (Management Plan, 2016).
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Water level management of Lake Srebarna)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Water level management is necessary but at the same time means that the hydrological system of Srebarna is not functioning naturally (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). There are conflicting arguments - and a lack of an agreed vision (LT Consult Ltd. 2012) - for the current water level management. The maintenance of the water level of the Lake “in a state closest to the maximum level” (CLGE 2001), negatively affects the lifecycle of amphibians, water snakes and terrapins (Biserkov and Naumov 2012). Also it negatively affects the lifecycle of rodents which in turn affects the mammalophagous predators, such as the marbled polecat, the eastern fourlined ratsnake and the owls (Biserkov 2012). However, the significant fluctuation of the water level in the property enables the expansion of the willow and the reed at the expense of open water areas (MoEW et al. 2012). Also, low water level negatively affects the heronry, in particular the populations of the Glossy Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill and terns (Kamburova 2012). Furthermore, the maintenance of a high water level helped the Dalmatian Pelican recover and expand its population compared to the period when the levels were low. Yet, according to Michev and Simeonov (2011), the unusually high water level violates the integrity of the breeding places for the Dalmatian Pelican in the property.
In the 1990s a canal (Dragayka) was constructed connecting Lake Srebarna with the Danube. This slowed down the negative trends, but did not solve the main hydrological problem and the subsequent increase in siltation, eutrophication, and biomass accumulation, which are still posing serious threats to the conservation of Lake Srebarna. In 2012, maintenance of the sluice gates at the Dragaika canal led to improved annual operation of the water level conditions (IUCN Consultation, 2020). However, to address the problem of the broken connection with the Danube and, at least partially, restore the natural process of periodic flooding of water from the Danube and its withdrawal together with mobilized sediments and biomass, the construction of an additional canal ensuring optimal frequency and volume of flooding is being planned (Management Plan, 2016).
In the 1990s a canal (Dragayka) was constructed connecting Lake Srebarna with the Danube. This slowed down the negative trends, but did not solve the main hydrological problem and the subsequent increase in siltation, eutrophication, and biomass accumulation, which are still posing serious threats to the conservation of Lake Srebarna. In 2012, maintenance of the sluice gates at the Dragaika canal led to improved annual operation of the water level conditions (IUCN Consultation, 2020). However, to address the problem of the broken connection with the Danube and, at least partially, restore the natural process of periodic flooding of water from the Danube and its withdrawal together with mobilized sediments and biomass, the construction of an additional canal ensuring optimal frequency and volume of flooding is being planned (Management Plan, 2016).
Extreme weather conditions due to climate change, such as drought, storms and floods are likely to have localized, but reversible, negative impacts on the values and integrity of the World Heritage site. On the other hand, the expected lowering of the water level in the Danube would further interrupt the seasonal flooding of the site and potentially trigger significant ecological change. The possible construction of two transboundary hydro-technical complexes on the River Danube, might add to the already depleted hydrological system of the World Heritage site. However, since most of these potential threats have been assessed as "Data Deficient", the overall assessment is also "Data Deficient".
Fire & Fire Management
(Human induced fires)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
There is a risk of fires in the property during the winter months due to the accumulation of significant amounts of dried old reeds. Due to the difficulty to access the large internal parts of the reed massifs, in case of fire possibilities for counteraction are very limited. Stopping burning of dry reed in winter also helps to slow succession processes (Management Plan, 2016).
Another potential threat for the area is the burning of the floating reedbeds in spring or summer that may destroy the Pelican colony, or the mixed heron colony (RIS 2002, Michev and Simeonov 2011, MoEW et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013, Birds in Bulgaria 2013). According to EEA (2013) human induced fires have medium negative influence in the surrounding areas of the property and its buffer zone.
Another potential threat for the area is the burning of the floating reedbeds in spring or summer that may destroy the Pelican colony, or the mixed heron colony (RIS 2002, Michev and Simeonov 2011, MoEW et al. 2012, IUCN Consultation 2013, Birds in Bulgaria 2013). According to EEA (2013) human induced fires have medium negative influence in the surrounding areas of the property and its buffer zone.
Dams & Water Management/Use
(Dredging of Danube shipping lanes)
Outside site
Deepening the bottom of the Danube, planned by the Government with EU funds, will cause further disturbance of the water regime and deterioration of the wetland habitats (Birds in Bulgaria 2013). No details were available on the project.
Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Invasive fish species)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
The reconnection of the lake with the Danube in 1994 heightens the risks from the introduction of new alien species, such as: Silver Carp, Grass Carp, Round Gobby, Stone Moroko, and Chinese Sleeper (Pehlivanov and Pavlova 2012). This reconnection could also have enhanced eutrophication, compromised ecosystem functioning, and hence affect all biota of the property.
The appearance of invasive species change the structure of the local fish population. The most invasive fish species registered is the Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), whose population has been steadily growing in the lake (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Fish in Lake Srebarna have also been shown to be affected by new types of parasites and heavy metals (Chunchukova et al., 2016; Shukerova et al., 2017). However, more data is needed to assess the threat of invasive fish species to the OUV of the property.
The appearance of invasive species change the structure of the local fish population. The most invasive fish species registered is the Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), whose population has been steadily growing in the lake (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Fish in Lake Srebarna have also been shown to be affected by new types of parasites and heavy metals (Chunchukova et al., 2016; Shukerova et al., 2017). However, more data is needed to assess the threat of invasive fish species to the OUV of the property.
Droughts
(Lack of periodical flooding from the Danube)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Climate change is expected to lead to lower water level in the Danube and thus further reduce the frequency of flooding of the property (Nikolova et al. 2010). This will cause radical lowering of the water level and intensification of the already fast eutrophication (Hiebaum et al. 2012). It is hoped that the construction of an additional canal linking Srebarna Lake with the Danube would ensure the functioning of the hydrological processes and seasonal flooding in future scenarios of rainfall reduction (Management Plan, 2016). Currently there are no models predicting the drought-related effects of climate change on the property. However, studies have shown that the northern boundaries of nesting areas in continental Europe could shift north by up to several thousand kilometres due to climate change (Management Plan, 2016).
Storms/Flooding
(Extreme storms)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The high water level and extreme storms can detach some reed islets in which the Dalmatian Pelican colony nests (IUCN Consultation 2013). This has been (partly) resolved with the construction of artificial (wooden) platforms (Simeonov 2011). No models currently predict the exact extent of future storm exposure of the area.
Storms/Flooding
(Flooding)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
There are potential threats to the colonies of the Dalmatian Pelican and Eurasian Spoonbill due to event of extreme flooding triggered by climate change (Triplet et al. 2008, Michev and Simeonov 2011, Hiebaum et al. 2012). According to EEA (2013) flooding has medium and neutral influence on some 50% of the territory of the property and its buffer zone.
Renewable Energy
(Planned transboundary hydro-technical complex)
Outside site
Two transboundary hydro-technical complexes are being planned on the River Danube at Nikopol-Turnu Măgurele and at Silistra. These aim to utilize the river for hydropower production and improve conditions for navigation (http://legislatie.just.ro/Public/DetaliiDocument/204308).
The Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water – Ruse (RIEW-Ruse) is the Management Authority of the property; the staff includes one site manager (office in Ruse), one field expert and three rangers. RIEW-Ruse is also responsible for the management of the territory of the property and its vicinity covered by other national and international designations. The Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research (formerly Central Laboratory of General Ecology - CLGE) of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences is responsible for research and monitoring activities (IBER-BAS 2013). A new management plan was adopted in 2016 (IUCN Consultation, 2020). The existing national legal framework provides opportunity for public participation in the preparation and adoption of the management plan. However, there are no specific mechanism and procedures providing for participation of local stakeholders in the management of the property. The inclusion of the territory of the property and its buffer zone in the NATURA 2000 ecological network is likely to contribute to an improved capacity for addressing threats outside the property both at national and transboundary context.
A new management plan came into force in 2016, but the effectiveness of its work and action plans are currently unknown. Although some important actions prescribed in the 2001 management plan seem to still be pending, work is currently planned to remove accumulated sediment and expanding reed beds, as well as improving the hydrological regime by constructing an additional canal between the property and the River Danube (IUCN Consultation, 2020; Management Plan, 2016). The effectiveness of these actions remains to be assessed.
The reserve is staffed by three rangers active from 8:00-17:00, which is only partly effective in the control of illegal activities in the property and its buffer zone (IUCN Consultation 2013). No formal management effectiveness assessment is documented from the site, and the State Party stated in 2014 that monitoring the status of indicators of the OUV could be improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Based on the above, overall management effectiveness is of "Some Concern".
The reserve is staffed by three rangers active from 8:00-17:00, which is only partly effective in the control of illegal activities in the property and its buffer zone (IUCN Consultation 2013). No formal management effectiveness assessment is documented from the site, and the State Party stated in 2014 that monitoring the status of indicators of the OUV could be improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Based on the above, overall management effectiveness is of "Some Concern".
The boundaries of the property and its buffer zone are mostly effective in relation to the management and protection of its values, as also stated by the State Party in 2014 (WHC 2014). The property is included in other legal protection regimes which cover areas beyond its buffer zone and which are managed in ways that enhance property protection. The management and protection of its values can be improved through cooperation and coordination of activities in other adjacent protected areas along the Danube in Bulgaria and Romania. Progress has been made in this area under the Danubeparks initiative (Danubeparks 2013). However, the State Party considered in 2014 that the borders of the buffer zone are not sufficiently known by locals (State Party of Bulgaria 2014).
The property was formally Integrated into the Silistra Municipal Development Plan 2007-2013 (MCS 2008), Tourism Development Strategy for Silistra Municipality 2008-2013 (Municipality of Silistra 2013b), and Regional Development Plan of the North-East Planning Region 2007-2013 (BG-CoM 2005). The State Party considered in 2014 that coordination of management (not only planning) with other relevant State authorities exists, but that it could be improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Therefore, the overall assessment is "Effective".
The existing legal framework provides opportunity for public participation in the preparation and adoption of the management plan (RBNA 2002). However, there are no formal mechanism and procedures providing for participation of local stakeholders in the management of the property (WHC 2001, RBNA 2002). The State party described cooperation with local people as "fair" in 2014, with only some input of locals in management decisions (State Party of Bulgaria 2014).
Land of the property and its buffer zone is entirely state owned. As of April 2013, the territory of property and its buffer zone have been included, partly or entirely in several legal designation: (1) Managed Nature Reserve Srebarna (892.05 ha), designated in 1948 (ordinance No.11931), increased in area in 1993 (ordinance No.581), and re-categorized in 1999 (ordinance No.367); (2) Protected Site Pelikanite (542.8 ha), buffer zone of Nature Reserve Srebarna established in 1983 (decree No ДВ-3), designated as a Protected Site in 2007 (ordinance No.527). The territory of property and its buffer zone have been recognized, partly or entirely under several international treaties: (1) Wetland of International Importance Srebarna – 1975 (under the Ramsar Convention; Ramsar Site proper – 600 ha; Ramsar Site buffer zone – 542.8 ha); (2) UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – 1977 (under the UNESCO MAB Programme); (3) World Heritage of Srebarna Nature Reserve – 1983 (under the World Heritage Convention; 219bis; property - 638 ha; buffer zone – 673 ha); (4) Special Protected Area Srebarna – 2007 (under the EC Birds Directive; ordinance - No.РД-564; Id BG0000241; 1448.2177 ha); (5) Special Area of Conservation Srebarna - 2008 ( under the EC Habitats Directive; ordinance - No.РД-564; Id BG0000241; 1448.2177 ha). The State Party considered in 2014 that the legal framework is adequate or better to maintain the OUV of the site, but that it could be strengthened for the areas surrounding the buffer zone (but affecting the property) (State Party of Bulgaria 2014).
Enforcement capacity was considered acceptable with some deficiencies by the State Party (2014). At the same time, ranger numbers are considered relatively low, and some illegal activities, in particular fishing and hunting, reportedly continue at the property, which leads to an overall assessment of "Some Concern".
The State Party has implemented most of the decisions and recommendations of the World Heritage Committee related to the property. However, no information is available on the progress concerning the WHC recommendation that State Party explores the ways and means to collaborate with other States Parties sharing resident and migratory bird species and populations to collectively consider the merits of a “serial-like” or composite transboundary “Danube Wetland World Heritage Site” (WHC 2001). Additional data is needed for a reliable assessment of this topic.
The State Party considered in 2014 that there was some flow of economic benefits to locals (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Recreational fishing and tourism are the primary types of resource use that do not jeopardize property values. Due to the illegal fishing, however, the cumulative use of fish resources is unsubstantial and affects food availability for fish-feeding birds. A fish stock assessment is needed to ensure adequate food for birds and estimate the quantity available for recreational fishermen (IUCN Consultation 2013).
Financial resources from the Ministry of Environment and Water have not been available for the implementation of some priority actions envisaged in the the previous (2001) management plan. In order to achieve the goals set in the 2016 management plan, it is necessary for the responsible institutions and partners indicated in the work plan for each project to study the possibilities for securing funding, especially for the projects with high and medium priority. A procurement procedure is currently underway for construction works aimed at improving the hydrological regime and removing accumulated sediments and reed/willow growth, one of the highest priority projects in the new Management Plan (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
The funding provided by international organizations has narrowed the financial gap in the implementation of the management plan (e.g. Simenonov 2011). The State Party considered in 2014 that the financial resources for the property were acceptable, but could be further improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014).
The funding provided by international organizations has narrowed the financial gap in the implementation of the management plan (e.g. Simenonov 2011). The State Party considered in 2014 that the financial resources for the property were acceptable, but could be further improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014).
The number of staff of one site manager, one field expert and three rangers (IUCN Consultation, 2020) appears small for an area of this size. Capacity building and training has been provided for the staff through projects and networking (Danubeparks 2013). Training needs previously identified include: fundraising, use of GIS in decision-making; development of tourism; and participatory conservation management (WHC 2006). Current training needs are unknown. The availability of training opportunities was considered "medium" by the State Party for most training areas in 2014; only in "conservation" and "administration" it was considered "high". There is no special capacity development plan, and a high reliance on external contractors to conduct management activities (State Party of Bulgaria 2014).
In 1983 the Municipality of Silistra opened the Natural History Museum of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna (Municipality of Silistra 2013). This was renovated in 2014, with EU funds (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). In period 2005-2016 the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research (IBER-BAS) had an Information and Education Centre in the building of the Field Ecological Station (Laboratory, Education Centre and Field Station of IBER-BAS). The State Party considered in 2014 that the education and awareness programme of the site partly met its needs, that the World Heritage status could be used more effectively in this regard, and that overall awareness of the World Heritage status of the site ranged from "poor" to "excellent" among the various stakeholder groups (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). There were also excellent trails and information materials, according to the State Party. This suggests that the education and interpretation programmes at the site are "Effective" overall.
In 1983 the Municipality of Silistra opened the Natural History Museum of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna. In the period 2004-2007, 22.324 people visited the Museum (MCS 2008, Municipality of Silistra 2013). In 2000 there were five staff members, including a biologist, in the Museum (UNEP-WCMC and IUCN 2013). The museum organises contests and games for children about the wetland, and there is access to eco trails with information boards (Bancheva-Preslavska and Bezlova, 2018). The wetland is a hotspot for bird watching and recreation, mainly by foreign tourists and the existing panoramic roads around the borders of the property provide good opportunities for hiking. The Danube riverbank, part of which is within the buffer zone of the property is a popular destination for anglers. According to the State Party, there was a minor increase in visitation in 2012-13 (State Party 2014), with no more recent data available. The visitor management appears to be effective overall, also in light of the low overall visitor numbers, but it could be improved, according to the State Party (2014). The development of tourism requires a comprehensive approach providing the remoteness of the area and isolation from other tourist designations. Improving road infrastructure, modernising the ports in the village of Vetren and the town of Silistra including the provision of transport from there, as well as renewal of the airport in the town of Silistra would significantly improve the conditions for tourism development (Management Plan, 2016).
The Central Laboratory of General Ecology (CLGE-BAS, at present IBER-BAS) dispose of a permanent field Station at the Srebarna Lake Biosphere Reserve (established in 1961). Permanent staff members working in the field station are involved in a routine long-term monitoring program of the reserve, measuring the following parameters: nutrients, phytoplankton and zooplankton composition, water level and temperature, quantitative estimations of bird populations and the nesting colony (dates of arrival and departure and the number of nesting sites, pairs, eggs and hatched chicks) (CLGE 2013; Management Plan, 2016). Unfortunately, since 2006 IBER-BAS does not have a contract with the Ministry of Environment and Waters for annual ecological monitoring of Lake Srebarna. For this reason, the data on the main environmental parameters, plants and animals are no longer monitored annually, but when the Institute has the necessary financial resources. Visiting researchers from the CLGE-BAS headquarters collect samples to assess the trophic status, monitor fish and bird populations and assess the effect of anthropogenic impact (not every year). In addition, NGOs and volunteers regularly assist in this monitoring program for the property and its buffer zone. The foundation “Le Balkan” regularly monitors Dalmatian Pelican breeding pairs and young at Srebarna (Catsadorakis and Portolou, 2017). The State Party stated in 2014 that monitoring the status of indicators of the existing comprehensive programme could be improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Therefore, the monitoring of Srebarna is assessed as "Effective" overall. Since 2007, there is also regular monitoring of Srebarna Lake using satellite data. Ivanova et al. (2018) have, for example, studied the state and seasonal dynamics of floating reed islands in the lake, which can help the management of this specific type of wetland ecosystem. The State Party stated in 2014 that monitoring the status of indicators of the existing comprehensive programme could be improved (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Therefore, the monitoring of Srebarna is assessed as "Mostly Effective" overall.
The Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences conducts regular ecological research which is relevant for the conservation of property values (CLGE 2013). The research is conducted with the support from the permanent Ecological Station at Srebarna Biosphere Reserve (established in 1961). NGOs and volunteers regularly assist in the on-going research program for the property and its buffer zone. However, not many peer-reviewed articles in international scientific journals have been produced as a result of these activities, and there are knowledge gaps regarding the property, according to the State Party (State Party of Bulgaria 2014). Research is assessed as "Effective" overall.
Assessment of the effectiveness of protection and management in addressing threats outside the site
Mostly Effective
The active participation of the management authority in transboundary and international initiatives and projects has contributed to an improved cooperation and coordination of activities with adjacent protected areas along the Danube River in Bulgaria and Romania. Furthermore, the inclusion of the territory of the property and its buffer zone in the NATURA 2000 ecological network is likely to contribute to an improved capacity for addressing threats outside the property both at national and transboundary context. At the same time, there are some deficiencies in the implementation of the legal framework outside the property's and buffer zone's boundaries, according to the State Party (2014).
Outside threats are mainly related to the on-going management of the hydrological conditions around the property, as well as the changed hydrological regime of the Danube caused by a series of hydropower dams, leading to a deterioration of water circulation, siltation and eutrophication. Some work is currently being planned, although the effectiveness remains to be assessed. Drainage of wetlands or their conversion into fishponds and fish farms also threatens fish-eating bird species.
Outside threats are mainly related to the on-going management of the hydrological conditions around the property, as well as the changed hydrological regime of the Danube caused by a series of hydropower dams, leading to a deterioration of water circulation, siltation and eutrophication. Some work is currently being planned, although the effectiveness remains to be assessed. Drainage of wetlands or their conversion into fishponds and fish farms also threatens fish-eating bird species.
Good practice examples
The on-going research and monitoring activities represent a good example of sound scientific work at a World Heritage property.
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Data Deficient
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important biodiversity values
Low Concern
Data Deficient
According to the information concerning the NATURA 2000 site Srebarna (EEA 2013), the vast majority of the other important values of the World Heritage site enjoy good conservation status. The Water-Fan (Aldrovanda vesiculosa) is a notable exemption from the overall good conservation state. This species has low reproductive potential and also low competition potential and can be replaced by widely distributed floating water plants in the site. However, there are some concerns for the conservation status of the following species: Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug), Black Stork (Ciconia nigra), Romanian Hamster (Mesocricetus newtoni), European Mudminnow (Umbra krameri). The concerns about overall ecosystem health for the World Heritage values, particularly in terms of hydrological regime, eutrophication and siltation, also affect the other important biodiversity values of the site.
Additional information
The property provides three job positions, directly related to management, and additional eight jobs related to research and monitoring (indirectly to management) and education, interpretation and tourism (indirectly related to management). Tourism is a source for additional household income (e.g. Pelican Lake Guesthouse, Srebarna Guesthouse, etc.).
Outdoor recreation and tourism
In the period 2004-2007, 22,324 people visited the Natural History Museum. The wetland is a hotspot for bird watching and recreation, mainly by foreign tourists. The property is also popular with recreational anglers.
Based on information on current threats, it is considered likely that the benefits depending on the values that are affected by these threats are also impacted.
Importance for research,
Contribution to education
In 1961 the biological station ‘Srebarna’ was established by the Institute of Zoology of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. In 1978 the station was transferred to Central Laboratory of General Ecology. It has conducted continuous monitoring of breeding colony of Dalmatian Pelican since 1955. From 1998 to 2006 the ecological monitoring has being carried out by the former Institute of Ecology (later Central Laboratory of General Ecology, now Institute of Biodiversity & Ecosystem Research) in Srebarna. The on-going research projects and monitoring activities (not every year) represent a good example of scientific research at a natural World Heritage site. The research in the site has contributed to knowledge building on wetland ecology in general, even if few peer-reviewed articles in international scientific journals have been produced as a result.
Based on information on current threats, it is considered likely that the benefits depending on the values that are affected by these threats are also impacted.
Access to drinking water
Sourse of freshwater
Based on information on current threats, it is considered likely that the benefits depending on the values that are affected by these threats are also impacted.
The site provides a number of benefits that are compatible with the long-term conservation of the values and the integrity of the property. Direct benefits for the local community include jobs and income from tourism and recreation activities. Nature conservation in the property is recognized and valued among conservationists and environmentalists in Bulgaria and internationally. The field station located at the property serves as a base for research and monitoring of biodiversity and ecosystem processes in the reserve and adjacent wetlands and also for training of MSc and PhD students from Bulgaria and other countries. The provision of these important services is affected by the same threats that also affect the ecosystem functioning and biodiversity values on which they depend, in particular the degraded hydrological regime, eutrophication and siltation.
| № | Organization | Brief description of Active Projects | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Waters – Ruse | Project Title: Activities for sustainable management of the Managed Reserve Srebarna and Reserve Beli Lom. |
http://www.riosv.ruse.bg/
|
| 2 | Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Waters – Ruse | Project Title: Improvement of Structure and Functions of Habitats with Codes 91E0* and 91F0 within the Territory of “Srebarna” Managed Reserve Start Date: 2018 | |
| 3 | Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Waters – Ruse | Project Title: Management of Succession Processes and Improvement of The Quality of The Habitats and Protected Wetland Species in “Srebarna” Managed Reserve Wetland Start Date: 17.12.2019 |
References
| № | References |
|---|---|
| 1 |
<http://legislatie.just.ro/Public/DetaliiDocument/204308>; [Accessed 29.05.2020]
|
| 2 |
BG-CoM (Bulgarian Government, Council of Ministers) 2005. Regional Development Plan of the North-East Planning Region for the Period 2007-2013. Sofia: Bulgarian Government, Council of Ministers. http://www.strategy.bg/FileHandler.ashx?fileId=532. Accessed: 30 March 2013.
|
| 3 |
BSPB (The Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds) 2013. Srebarna. In: Areas Protection Activities. http://bspb.org/ovm.php?id=33&menu_id=65. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 4 |
Beschkov, V. 2011a. Hermann's Tortoise. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Teherman.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 5 |
Beschkov, V. 2011b. Spur-thighed tortoise. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Tegraeca.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 6 |
Beschkov, V. 2011c. Four-lined Snake. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Elquatuo.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 7 |
Beschkov, V. 2011d. Danube Crested Newt. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Trdobrog.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 8 |
Bilz, M., Kell, S. P., Maxted, N. and Lansdown, R. V. 2011. European Red List of Vascular Plants. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union. Available online at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/species….
|
| 9 |
BirdLife International 2004. Birds in the European Union: a status assessment. Wageningen, The Netherlands: BirdLife International. Available online at: http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/birds_in_eur….
|
| 10 |
Birds in Bulgaria. Important Bird Areas. http://www.birdsinbulgaria.org/ovm.php?l=en&pageNum_Ovm_All…. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 11 |
Biserkov, V. 2012. Changes after 1948 in the habitats of mammals in the area. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 155-162. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 12 |
Biserkov, V. and Naumov, B. 2012. Changes after 1948 in the habitats of amphibians and reptiles in the area of the Srebarna Lake Biosphere Reserve In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 163-183. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/species….
|
| 13 |
Boev, Z. 2011a. Little Bittern. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Ixminutu.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 14 |
Boev, Z. 2011b. Crane. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Grgrus.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 15 |
Boev, Z., Hristov, Y. and Domuschiev, D. 2011b. Eurasian Eagle Owl. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Bububo.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 16 |
Boev, Z., Michev, T., and Kambourova, N. 2011a. Purple Heron. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Arpurpur.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 17 |
Boev, Z., and Michev, T. 2011. Spoonbill. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Plleucor.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 18 |
CLGE (Central Laboratory of General Ecology) 2001. Management plan for the Srebarna Managed Reserve. Sofia: Central Laboratory of General Ecology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.
|
| 19 |
CLGE (Central Laboratory of General Ecology) 2007. Presentation of annual report of CLGE for 2007. http://www.ecolab.bas.bg/main/reports/2007/Presentation_Rep…. Accessed: 30 March 2013.
|
| 20 |
CLGE (Central Laboratory of General Ecology) 2013. Details about the organization. http://www.ciemat.es/CIEMATportal/recursos/doc/Redes_Cienti…. Accessed: 30 March 2013.
|
| 21 |
Catsadorakis, G. and Portolou, D. (2017). Status report for the Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus). [online] Report of Action A6 under the framework of Project LIFE EuroSAP (LIFE14 PRE/UK/002). Hellenic Ornithological Society and Society for the Protection of Prespa (unpublished report). February 2017. Available at: http://www.trackingactionplans.org/SAPTT/downloadDocuments/… [Accessed: 20052020]
|
| 22 |
Cheshmedziev, S. (compiler). 2012. National action plan for the protection of the Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca) in Bulgaria for the period 2012-2022. Sofia: The Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds.
|
| 23 |
Christensen, V., and Rossler, M. 1998. Assessment mission to Srebarna Nature Reserve (Bulgaria) – September/October 1998. Paris: UNESCO – WHC.
|
| 24 |
Cox, N. A. and Temple, H. J. 2009. European Red List of Reptiles. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities.
|
| 25 |
Crivelli, A. J. (compiler) 1996. Action plan for the Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus) in Europe. http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/wildbir…. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 26 |
Danubeparks 2013. In: Danubeparks: The Danube River Network of Protected Areas. Step 2.0. http://www.danubeparks.org/?story=1. Accessed: 10 April 2013
|
| 27 |
Delov, V. 2011. Corncrake. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Crcrex.html.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 28 |
Dereliev, S., and Simeonov, P. 2011. Red-breasted Goose. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Brrufico.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 29 |
Domuschiev, D., Michev, T., Stoyanov, G., Vatev, I., Petrov, T., and Ruskov, K. 2011. Saker Falcon. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Facherru.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 30 |
EEA (European Environment Agency) 2013. In: Natura 2000. NATURA 2000 - Standard Data Form: Site BG0000241/Srebarna (Last update: end of 2011). http://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/Natura2000/SDFPublic.aspx?s…. Accessed: 14 March 2013.
|
| 31 |
European Commission 2015. Life proposal LIFE15 NAT/BG/000740 LIFE FOR LAKE SREBARNA. https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/cas/login?loginRequestId=ECAS_…. Accessed on 22 August 2017.
|
| 32 |
Freyhof, J. and Brooks, E. 2011. European Red List of Freshwater Fishes. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union. Available online at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/species….
|
| 33 |
Hiebaum, G., Tsavkova, V., Christova, R., and Vassilev, V. 2012. Hydrochemistry and water quality. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 197-212. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 34 |
IBER-BAS (The Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Science) 2013. In: About IBER. http://www.iber.bas.bg/?q=en/node/2. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 35 |
IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) 2017. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2017.1. . Downloaded on 22 August 2017.
|
| 36 |
IUCN World Heritage Consultation Form. Consulted on March 6, 2013.
|
| 37 |
Iankov P., G. Stoyanov, D. Ragyov. 2013. Action Plan for the Protection of Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug Gray, 1834) in Bulgaria. MEW, Sofia, 91 p. (in Bulgarian).
|
| 38 |
Ivancheva, J., Tzenkova, A., Koleva, E., and Krastev, L. 2006. Climate Conditions in the Biosphere Reserve “Srebarna” Region. Paper presented at the International Scientific Conference on Water, Climate and Environment BALWOIS), May 23-26, Ohrid, Republic of Macedonia.
|
| 39 |
Ivanov, B. 2007. Population development of the White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla in Bulgaria in the period from 1977 to 2005. Acrocephalus 28 (132): 17−21.
|
| 40 |
Ivanov, B. 2011. Black Tern. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Chniger.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 41 |
Ivanov, B., Georgiev, D., Dimitrov, M., and Barov, B. 2011. White-tailed Eagle. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Haalbici.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 42 |
Ivanov, B., and Dereliev, S. 2011. Greylag Goose. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Ananser.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 43 |
Jones, T., Martin, K., Barov, B., and Nagy, S. (Compilers). 2008. International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Western Palearctic Population of the Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus. AEWA Technical Series No.36. Bonn: Germany.
|
| 44 |
Kalchev, R., Beshkova, M., and Pehlivanov, L. 2010. First records on effect of renewed flooding of three wetlands from Belene Island (Lower Danube, Bulgarian stretch). Paper presented at the 38th IAD Conference, June 2010, Dresden, Germany.
|
| 45 |
Kalchev, R., Vasilev, V., Tzavkova, V., and Beshkova, M. 2012. Water transparency, chlorophyll-a and plankton primary production in the course of Srebarna Lake recovery. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 57-68. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 46 |
Kalkman, V. J., Boudot, J.-P., Bernard, R., Conze, K.-J., Knijf, G. De, Dyatlova, E., Ferreira, S., Jović, M., Ott, J., Riservato, E. and Sahlén, G.. 2010. European Red List of Dragonflies. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union. Available online at: http://cmsdata.iucn.org/downloads/european_red_list_of_drag….
|
| 47 |
Kambourova, N. 2005. The recent status of breeding bird communities of Srebarna Biosphere Reserve (NE Bulgaria). Acrocephalus, 26 (125): 81-97.
|
| 48 |
Kamburova, N. 2012. Ornithofauna of the Biosphere Reserve Srebrana. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 129-154. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 49 |
Kamburova, N., and Michev, T. 2003. Habitat distribution of breeding waterbirds of Srebarna Managed Reserve, NE Bulgaria. Journal of Balkan Ecology, 6 (2): 191-199.
|
| 50 |
Kraleva, E., Pavlova, M.m Mazo Bedia, E., Borisova, P., Pehlivanov, L. 2012. Water quality of springs alongside Srebarna lake: preliminary chemical analysis. Ecological Chemistry and Engineering, Vol. 19, (4): 639—647.
|
| 51 |
LT Konsult Ltd. 2012. Analysis of the possibilities for improvement of the water regime of Srebarna Maintained Reserve. http://www.danubeparks.org/files/873_RLNP_HydrologyStudy_Sr…. Accessed: 23 August 2017.
|
| 52 |
MCS (Municipal Council of Silistra) 2008. Municipal Development Plan 2007-2013: 2008 update. http://silistra.bg/file/Municipal%20plan%20for%20developmen…. Accessed: 30 March 2013.
|
| 53 |
Management Plan (2016). Management Plan for the Srebarna Managed Nature Reserve [in Bulgarian]. Ministry of Environment and Water, Sofia, Bulgaria.
|
| 54 |
Meshinev, T. 2011. Aldrovanda vesiculosa In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 1. Plants & Fungi. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol1/Aldvesic.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 55 |
Michev T., Georgiev B. B., Petrova A. V., and Stoyneva M. P. (Eds.) (1998) Biodiversity of the Srebarna Biosphere Reserve. Checklist and bibliography. Sofia: Context and Pensoft.
|
| 56 |
Michev, T. 2011a. Squacco Heron. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Arralloi.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 57 |
Michev, T. 2011b. Little Egret. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Eggarzet.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 58 |
Michev, T. 2011c. Great White Pelican. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Peonocro.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 59 |
Michev, T. 2011d. Great White Egret. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Egalba.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 60 |
Michev, T., Boev, Z., Delov, V., and Nikolov, H. 2011b. Night Heron. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Nynyctic.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 61 |
Michev, T., Kambourova, N. and Michev, B. 2011a. Glossy Ibis. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Plfalcin.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 62 |
Michev, T., and Kamburova, N. 2012. Action plan for the protection of the Dalmatian Pelican in Bulgaria (2013-2022). Sofia: Ministry of Environment and Water.
|
| 63 |
Michev, T., and Simeonov, P. 2011. Dalmatian Pelican. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Pecrispu.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 64 |
MoEW (Ministry of Environment and Waters), BSPB (The Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds), BBF (Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation), and IBER (The Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research) 2012. National Plan for the Protection of the Most Important Wetlands in Bulgaria (2013-2022). Sofia.
|
| 65 |
Municipality of Silistra 2013a. Natural history museum of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna. http://silistra.bg/files/17.09.2012-27ac1c54c3d6db499e8488c…. Accessed: 30 March 2013.
|
| 66 |
Municipality of Silistra 2013b. Tourism Development Strategy for Silistra Municipality 2008-2013. http://www.silistra.bg/readarticle.php?article_id=129. Accessed: 30 March 2013.
|
| 67 |
Nikolov, H., Marin, S., Kambourova, N., and Demerdjiev, D. 2011. Pygmy Cormorant. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Phpygmeu.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 68 |
Nikolova, M., Vatseva, R., and Nikolov, V. 2010. GIS assessment of global change impacts on the dynamics of the Srebarna lake ecosystem. Paper presented at the 3rd International Conference on Cartography and GIS, June 15-20, Nessebar, Bulgaria.
|
| 69 |
Pehlivanov, L., and Pavlova, M. 2012. Ichthyofauna and fish communities. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 115-128. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 70 |
Petkov, N. 2011. Ferruginous Duck. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Aynyroca.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 71 |
Petrov, T., Gradimir, G., Kmetova, E., Hristov, Y., and Michev, T. 2011a. White Stork. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Ciciconi.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 72 |
Petrov, T., Nikolov, H., and Darakchiev, A. 2011b. Black Stork. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Cinigra.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 73 |
Popov, A. 2011a. Yellow-spotted white-faced darter. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Lepector.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 74 |
Popov, A. 2011b. Romanian Hamster. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Menewton.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 75 |
RBNA (Republic of Bulgaria National Assembly) 2002. Biological Diversity Act. State Gazette 77.
|
| 76 |
RIS (Regional Inspectorate Silistra) 2002. Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands. http://www.wetlands.org/reports/ris/3BG001en_RIS_2002.pdf. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 77 |
Robinson, J. A., and Hughes, B. (Compilers). 2006. International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca. CMS Technical Series No. 12 & AEWA Technical Series No. 7. Bonn, Germany.
|
| 78 |
Shurulinkov, P. 2012. National action plan for the protection of the Great Bittern (Botaurus stellaris) in Bulgaria (2012-2021). Sofia: The Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds.
|
| 79 |
Simeonov, P. 2011. Srebarna Dalmatian Pelican Colony: a successful example of international partnership for Nature Conservation. Regulus 8.
|
| 80 |
Simeonov, P., and Dereliev, S. 2011. Lesser White-fronted Goose. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Anerythr.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 81 |
Spiridonov, G., and Spassov, N. 2011a. Eurasian Otter. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Lulutra.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 82 |
Spiridonov, G., and Spassov, N. 2011b. Marbled polecat. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Voperegu.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 83 |
State Party of Bulgaria 2014. Periodic Report - Second Cycle. Section II: Srebarna Nature Reserve. http://whc.unesco.org/archive/periodicreporting/EUR/cycle02…. Accessed 22 August 2017.
|
| 84 |
Stefanov, T, and Trichkova, T. 2011a. Weatherfish. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Mifossil.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 85 |
Stefanov, T, and Trichkova, T. 2011b. European Mud-minnow. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Umkramer.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 86 |
Stefanov, T, and Trichkova, T. 2011c. Southern Ninespine Stickleback. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Puplatyg.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 87 |
Temple, H. J., and Terry, A. (Compilers). 2007. The Status and Distribution of European Mammals. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. Available online at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/species….
|
| 88 |
Triplet, P., Overdijk, O., Smart, M., Nagy, S., Schneider-Jacoby, M., Karauz, E. S., Pigniczki, Cs., Baha El Din, S., Kralj, J., Sandor, A., and Navedo, J. G. (Compilers). 2008. International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia. AEWA Technical Series No. 35. Bonn, Germany. Available online at: http://www.unep-aewa.org/publications/ssap/eurasian_spoonbi….
|
| 89 |
UNEP-WCMC (United Nations Environment Programme, World Conservation Monitoring Centre) and IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) 2013. World Heritage Information Sheets. http://www.unep-wcmc.org/medialibrary/2013/04/09/b32c3378/W…. Accessed: 13 April 2013.
|
| 90 |
Valchev, V., Tsonev, R., Georgiev, V., Tsoneva, S. 2012. Aquatic macrophytes: species composition and syntaxonomy. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 69-76. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 91 |
Vasilev, V. P., Kalchev, R. K., Diadovski, I. K., Kalcheva, H., Ivanova, I. B., and Fikova, R. P. 2012. Spatial and temporal morphometric changes. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 185-196. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 92 |
Vasilev, V., Fikova, R., Benderev, A., Shishkov, T., Koutev, V., Tsenkova, A., Koleva, E., Ivancheva, J., Krustev, L., and Dyadovski, I. 2012a. Physiographic features. In: Y. Uzunov, B. B. Georgiev, E. Varadinoiva, N. Ivanova, L. Pehlivanov, and V. Vasilev (eds.) Ecosystems of the Biosphere Reserve Srebarna Lake, pp. 3-11. Sofia: Professor Marin Drinov Academic Publishing House. Available online at: http://www.wetlanet.org/documents/books/ecosystems-of-the-b….
|
| 93 |
Vasilev, V., and Ivanov, B. 2011. Whiskered Tern. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Chhybrid.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 94 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 1983b. Nomination Documentation (file name: 219.pdf). http://whc.unesco.org/uploads/nominations/219bis.pdf.
|
| 95 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 1991. In: State of Conservation: Srebarna Nature Reserve (1991). http://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/1662. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 96 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 1992. In: State of Conservation: Srebarna Nature Reserve (1992). http://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/1681. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 97 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 1993. In: State of Conservation: Srebarna Nature Reserve (1993). http://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/1742. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 98 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 1994. In: State of Conservation: Srebarna Nature Reserve (1994). http://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/1783. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 99 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 2001.Mission Report. Srebarna Nature Reserve World Heritage Site, Bulgaria. 1-4 October 2001 (WHC-01/CONF.208/INF.5). Paris: WHC. Available online at: http://whc.unesco.org/archive/2001/whc-01-conf208-inf5e.pdf.
|
| 100 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 2004. In: State of Conservation: Srebarna Nature Reserve (2004). http://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/1415. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 101 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 2006. State of Conservation of World Heritage Properties in Europe, Bulgaria: Srebarna Nature Reserve. Available online at: http://whc.unesco.org/archive/periodicreporting/EUR/cycle01….
|
| 102 |
WHC (World Heritage Centre) 2009. Item 8 of the Provisional Agenda: Establishment of the World Heritage List and of the List of World Heritage in Danger. 8E: Adoption of retrospective Statements of Significance and of Outstanding Universal Value (WHC-09/33.COM/8E). Paris: World Heritage Committee.
|
| 103 |
WHC (World Heritage Committee) 1983a. World Heritage Nomination: IUCN Technical Review (Srebarna Nature and Biosphere Reserve; No 219). http://whc.unesco.org/archive/advisory_body_evaluation/219b….
|
| 104 |
Zehtindjiev, P., Bogdanova, M., and Bedev, K. 2011. Ruddy Shelduck. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Plfalcin.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 105 |
Zehtindjiev, P., Bogdanova, M., and Bedev, K. 2011. Ruddy Shelduck. In: V. Golemanski (Editor-in-Chief). Red Data book of the Republic of Bulgaria. Volume 2. Animals. Sofia: IBER-BAS & MOEW (electronic edition). http://e-ecodb.bas.bg/rdb/en/vol2/Taferrug.html. Accessed: 15 March 2013.
|
| 106 |
Zhelezov, G. 2010. Evaluation of the ecosystem service in the forest formations of Biosphere Reserve “Srebarna”, Northeastern Bulgaria. In: J. C. Azevedo, M. Feliciano, J. Castro and M.A. Pinto (eds.) Forest Landscapes and Global Change-New Frontiers in Management, Conservation and Restoration. Proceedings of the IUFRO Landscape Ecology. Working Group International Conference, September 21-27, 2010, Bragança, Portugal. 107-112. Bragança, Portugal: Instituto Politécnico de Bragança.
|