Optimal catch crop solutions to reduce pollution in the transboundary Venta and Lielupe river basins

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Venta and Lielupe are transboundary river basins shared by Lithuania and Latvia where many river water bodies still suffer from water pollution problems. Although significant efforts have been devoted to the water pollution reduction in both countries and substantial decrease in urban pollution has been achieved, diffuse pollution of agricultural origin has not yet been tackled sufficiently. Hence, strengthening cooperation and joining the efforts of Lithuanian and Latvian experts and stakeholders is needed to elaborate common methodologies and strategies to combat agricultural pollution, improve ecological status of water bodies and reduce pollution transport into the Baltic Sea. The overall objective of the Project is to increase efficiency in management of the transboundary Venta and Lielupe river basins by providing a joint concept for the reduction of agricultural pollution. The project will focus on the assessment of potentials and economic aspects of catch-crop solutions as one of the most promising and prominent agro-environmental measures. Growing of catch crops helps to protect the soil and catch the extra nutrients. However, due to insufficient knowledge about the benefits and missing effective strategies and tools for support, catch crop potentials to reduce agricultural pollution are still poorly utilised. In view of that, the project will elaborate efficient catch crop schemes for the Venta and Lielupe river basins and develop tools and action plans for their implementation. The concept and tools jointly elaborated by Lithuanian and Latvian experts will assist national authorities in efficient management of the Venta and Lielupe river basins, support effective decision making of farmers and facilitate achievement of the environmental goals set by the WFD, MSFD and HELCOM.

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