Euro-Site-Member | Network news

A new initiative for future cooperation between visitor centres in 9 European countries –and beyond towards Western-Africa - aiming at raising awareness for the importance of wetlands along the flyways for migratory birds.

The RAMSAR / Natura 2000 wetland sites in Western-Europe fulfil an important role in the annual migration of birds from their breeding areas to their wintering areas and vice versa. At several RAMSAR sites there are already visitor centres providing the general public with information about their local site.

However there is a lack of information and educational material for visitors to make them aware of the importance of the chain of these wetlands (stepping-stones) along the flyways of migratory birds and about the important role these wetlands fulfil as a whole. The proposed project should fill this gap and connect the cooperating visitor centres in providing them with actual information.

The project is aimed at launching and establishing a network of visitor centres in or nearby an international important wetland (RAMSAR site as well as NATURA 2000 site) in the Western European countries (Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Belgium, France and Spain).This 'chain' of centres should be in regular contact (for example by internet) and exchange knowledge. They are also to share publications and information materials for exhibitions. (leaflets, posters, as well as e.g. virtual programs for following or tracking marked birds on there fly-ways along the wetlands of Western Europe). This will give the visitor more insight in the actual bird migration and the importance of wetlands for feeding and resting. The project will also lead to a better understanding and awareness of the general public about the relevance of economic, social and cultural aspects influencing bird populations in the wintering areas. (e.g. Africa)

Read all about this project in the attached document!