From October 28-30, the meeting in Vielha brought together international specialists to share knowledge and experiences on the restoration of aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity conservation. These areas, including lakes, streams, torrents, peatlands, and wet meadows, face increasing pressure from climate change, hydrological alterations, land-use changes, and the introduction of invasive species.
The objective of the meeting was to advance the achievements in this field, including results from the LIFE RESQUE ALPYR project (2022-2026). This project has carried out ecological restoration actions in four Natura 2000 sites in the Pyrenees and Alps. Among these, notable actions include the pioneering removal of introduced fish from mountain lakes, the restoration of peatlands and wet meadows, improved livestock management, and the recovery of sensitive species like amphibians and aquatic invertebrates.
The conference featured international speakers such as Roland Knapp (University of California), Helge Bardal (Norwegian Veterinary Institute), Borja Jiménez-Alfaro (University of Oviedo), and Lucia Bello and Rocco Tiberti (University of Calabria). Representatives from project partner organizations and protected areas also participated.
The third day included a field trip to Montanheu d’Àrreu lake and the Clòts de Rialba peatlands, to see the results of the restoration interventions firsthand and exchange experiences on managing these unique and vulnerable European mountain ecosystems.
High mountain aquatic ecosystems are crucial for their specialized biodiversity and the essential ecosystem services they provide, such as water and carbon storage. The LIFE RESQUE ALPYR project aims to generate knowledge and management tools for their conservation across Europe.
