PRESENTATION OF THE LIFE AMPHCON PROJECT AT THE EVENT COEXISTENCE OF MEN AND NATURE

On 26 April 2025, the Beličnik Association, an active environmental group in the municipality of Križevci near Ljutomer, known for its long-standing involvement in amphibian rescue efforts in Boreci, organised a local educational event at Gajševci Lake. Invited speakers Martina Vida from the Lutra Institute and Katja Poboljšaj from the Amphibian Information Centre of Slovenia (Centre for Cartography of Fauna and Flora) informed locals about the activities of the LIFE AMPHICON and LIFE BEAVER projects. The gathering aimed to showcase the results of this year’s amphibian rescue campaign, recognise volunteers with certificates of appreciation, and highlight ways to foster harmonious coexistence between humans, amphibians, and beavers.

Despite the rain, a local event took place at Lake Gajševci on 26th April 2025, where we presented the activities of the LIFE Amphicon project. The Beličnik Association presented the results of the amphibian rescue action in Boreci, planted an apple tree, and then Katja Poboljšaj from CKFF presented interesting facts about the world of amphibians and practical measures to support their conservation. While the lake’s murky water prevented live animal demonstrations, children enthusiastically interacted with lifelike amphibian models under Katja’s guidance.

Martina Vida from the Lutra Institute followed with a demonstration of tree protection techniques to prevent beaver damage. Drawing from her extensive fieldwork, she shared valuable knowledge about beaver behaviour, the importance of maintaining flowing watercourses, and enriched her talk with amusing and educational anecdotes from beaver habitats.

Although plans for a guided wildflower walk along the dam with Klavdija Šalamun were interrupted by the rain, the event maintained a spirited and educational atmosphere throughout.

We extend heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to the success of the event. Many participants have been involved in multiple amphibian rescue actions across Pomurje and continue to play a vital role in raising environmental awareness in the local community.

Photo: V. Kitthiya, K. Šalamun