Ukraine Wins 2024 Dam Removal Award Despite Wartime Challenges
Bohdan Prots, Danube-Carpathian Programme and the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve
An inspiring river restoration project in Ukraine has been crowned the winner of the 2024 Dam Removal Award after successfully removing three dams and reconnecting 200km of rivers in the western Tiza catchment.
Led by the Danube-Carpathian Programme and the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, the Ukrainian project removed three obsolete dams on the Kvasnyi, Bilyi, and Bohdan Rivers in the Zakarpatska region, within the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve.
Despite the ongoing war, local authorities, civil society and communities united to restore these rivers that are vital for biodiversity, flood prevention, climate resilience and the livelihoods of mountain communities.
The project reestablished migration routes for fish species, reduced flood risks for over 2,000 people, restored critical road infrastructure, and reopened access to mineral springs, grazing lands, and tourist trails. It became a symbol of resilience and ecological recovery, demonstrating that environmental action can help communities rebuild both nature and trust during crisis.
Before and after removal. Kvasnyi river
The award is hosted by Dam Removal Europe, the Wetlands International and supported by the European Investment Bank, McMilen, ECOenergy.
