We Pass 2 Project Concludes: Restoring Migration Routes for the Danube’s Iconic Fish
The We Pass 2 project, an ambitious initiative to restore fish migration routes at the Iron Gate Dams on the Danube River, has reached a successful conclusion. Building on the achievements of the original We Pass project, We Pass 2 focused on creating preliminary designs and cost estimates for solutions to enable fish passage at Iron Gate 1 and 2, which sit on the border between Romania and Serbia.
Why the Iron Gate Dams Matter
Constructed in the 1960s and 1970s, the Iron Gate Dams are among the largest hydropower facilities in Europe, providing renewable energy and supporting navigation on the Danube; however, their construction disrupted river connectivity, blocking the natural migration routes of numerous fish species, including the critically endangered Danube sturgeons. These “living fossils” are an essential component of the biodiversity of the Danube River and its vast ecosystem. Restoring their migration routes has long been a priority for the Danube River Basin Management Plans.
The Iron Gate Dams present a unique challenge: as transboundary structures with complex operational and ecological considerations, any solutions must balance the needs of both nature and people.
Key Achievements of WePass2
WePass2 made significant progress toward reconnecting the Danube’s migratory pathways:
- Fish Monitoring: Advanced tracking techniques, including 3D acoustic telemetry, provided valuable insights into fish behaviour near the dams, helping shape the designs of effective passage solutions.
- Hydraulic Modeling: By using cutting-edge 2D and 3D modelling tools, the project assessed how proposed solutions would perform under real-world conditions.
- Preliminary Designs: The team developed initial designs for both upstream and downstream passage options, complete with cost estimates to guide future steps.
What’s Next?
The conclusion of WePass2 is not the end of the journey, but rather a vital milestone. The project’s findings will guide the development of detailed engineering plans and support efforts to secure funding for the implementation of fish passage structures. If successful, these solutions could reconnect nearly 800 kilometers of the Danube, offering hope for the sturgeons’ recovery and safeguarding the river’s biodiversity for generations to come.
The WePass2 project reflects the importance of international collaboration and innovative thinking in addressing complex ecological challenges. As we move forward, its legacy will inspire continued efforts to protect the Danube River.
To learn more about the WePass2 project and its outcomes, click to download the brochure at the link below.
