Within the Pindos-Prespes Connectivity Conservation Area runs one of the lastwild rivers in Europe, the Aoos/Vjosa, shared between Greece and Albania. The Aoos basin’s extensive hydrographic network of rivers and streams is part of a crucial transboundary ecological corridor for numerous species, notably mammals such as the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) and the Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) as well as numerous freshwater fish species, e.g., the Critically Endangered European eel (Anguilla anguilla). Safeguarding the river’s free flow is essential for both nature and people.
The Ri-Connect II project, funded via the Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT) is the continuation of the Ri-Connect project implemented during the period 2023–2025. It aims to preserve the free flow of the Aoos river and its tributaries as a transboundary ecological corridor and a resource for community development.
To achieve its central goal/vision, Ri-Connect II focuses on the following actions:
- Strengthening the participation of local communities and expanding the ‘River Guardians’ network.
- Αverting and mitigating the threats and pressures affecting the Aoos River and its tributaries.
- Improving the conservation status of important fish species.
- Promoting and enhancing cross-border cooperation for the protection of the Aoos/Vjosa.
- Highlighting the river as a flagship for integrity regionally, nationally and internationally.