Educational trail on the Oder Meanders

Because of its unique natural habitats and diversity of flora and fauna, the area of the meanders of the Oder River has been submitted for protection within the Natura 2000 network. In order to secure the continued development of the river and the protection of nature, the concept of Space for the River was created, which aims to combine nature conservation with the use of the river valley for utilitarian purposes. This project has been carried out by WWF Poland, the Green League Foundation, the Department of Botany at the University of Silesia and the Municipality of Krzyżanowice since 2005. In order for the space for the river to fulfil its function, it takes into account the needs for protection against erosion and flooding, as well as the need to protect bridges, roads and buildings. As part of the project, changes in riverfront land use, such as the exchange, purchase or lease of land exposed to lateral river erosion, are planned to help minimise economic losses in the future.