Ministry of Environment and Water
“Wetlands Restoration and Pollution Reduction” GEF TF 050706
REPORT
Of the project areas of Persina Nature Park and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality prior to the restoration works
/Baseline monitoring
Stela Lyubenova Ivanova…………………………………………
technical consultant of the Project Coordination Unit GEF TF 050706
“Wetlands Restoration and Pollution Reduction”
Sofia, December 2005
1.Rationale
The monitoring system comprises a specific control and measurement, analytical, infomration and warning activity. It is one of the main elements of efficient wetland management.
Main goal – Establishing the baseline condition of the ecological status of surface water, ground water, sediments and soils, prior to the restoration of the flooding regime of the Danubian wetlands in Persina Nature Park and in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality by conducting hydrochemical local monitoring of water, sediments and soils. The hydrochemical monitoring at certain points is conducted alongside hydrobiological monitoring.
- The hydrobiological and hydrochemical monitoring are some of the main elements of surface-water enironmental monitoring, in accordance with the Water Framework Directive 2000/60/ЕС
- The carrying out of baseline local monitoring is consistent with Bulgaria’s current laws, regulations and other legislative documents harmonised with the European legislation (Regulation 5/08.11.2000 on the Procedure and Manner of Establishment of the Networks and for the Activities of the National Water Monitoring System /promulgated in the SG 95/21.11.2000 etc.)
ü The purpose of hydrochemical baseline monitoring is:
- Obtaining of information about the status of surface water , ground water, sediments and soils in the monitored areas.
- The obtaining of information about the main pollutants in the monitored areas.
- By means of analysis and evaluation of the available information from previous studies of water and soils in the areas and the results from the auditing of both monitored areas allow important conclusions about the quality of water and soils in the wetlands, and about the characteristics of sediments in the Brushlen marsh (Kalimok Burshlen Protected Locality) and the Martvo Blato and Peschensko Blato (Persina Nature Park).
- Determining of the potential predicted pollution of water in flooded areas prior to the implementation of the project.
- Determining the typical monitoring points that can be included in the system of operational hydrochemical monitoring of the restored wetlands.
- Recommendations for implementation of operational self monitoring in the wetlands. Proposed characteristic hydrochemical parameters for inclusion in the operational hydrochemical monitoring which is an important element of the system for management of processes in the future restored wetlands.
- Proposition of possibilities to determine the imported and reduced load of organic matter and nutrients into the wetlands.
- Proposals for program studies for implementation of certain programs for increased level of reduction of the organic matter and nutrient pollution in the area. Determination of the treatment capacity and the maximum capacity of the wetlands to minimize the pollution load entering the receiving waters.
ü Hydrobiological monitoring is one of the main elements of ecological monitoring.
- The analysis of the communities of benthic microorganisms (macrozoobenthos) in the waterbodies (the Danube, drainage canals, marshes) within the areas envisaged for restoration (flooding) is an important indicator of the baseline condition of the aquatic ecosystems and provides important information about the ecological status, water quality, oxygen-regime variations, etc. The condition of surface and groundwater and, mainly, the condition of benthic macroinvertebrates prior to and after the flooding of wetlands will be an indicator of the success of restoration.
- During the next years hydrobiological monitoring will oitline the trends in the ecological status of the floded areas and the areas adjacent to the Danube.
- The identified baseline monitoring points can be included in the future in the system for monitoring of the restored wetlands.
- Monitoring goals
The monitoring goal is that the foloowing activities should take lace within the defined period:
ü Inventory, analysis and evaluation of the existing information (information by the Client, from other studies, research, projects, plans, programs, regulations, the literature, etc.), related to the fulfilment of the objectives.
ü Review of the project documents related to the development of a program for monitoring of water, soils and sediments.
ü Proposal for a program for individual activities and their implementation, including:
- hydrochemical monitoring of surface and ground water prior to the restoration works in both project areas. Monitoring of surface and ground water levels.
- monitoring of sediments in the Brushlensko marh (Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality) and in the Martvo and Peschensko marshes (Persina NP).
- monitoring of soils in the restored wetlands.
- hydrobiological monitoring of water bodies prior to the restoration works in the two project areas.
- monitoring of typical pollutants in the two project areas (waste water from the households and industries in the town of Belene, pig farms in the area, other farms, etc.)
- monitoring of waste and manure in the two project areas. Monitoring of the use of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, insecticides and plant protection chemicals and of the compliance with the good farming practice management conditions, in order to prevent above-standard pollution of the surface and ground water, and of the water in the future restored wetlands.
3. Selection of points based on local monitoring. Field study.
- A field study by specialists was conducted to select baseline local monitoring points.
The main criteria for selection and justification of the points in the local monitoring network are as follows :
- existing ecological monitoring points.
- use of the existing facilities depending on their physical conditions.
- accessibility.
- expected specific characteristics of the region under consideration.
- linking to certain monitoring points in the system for operational monitoring of the restored wetlands in the Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality, after the specified areas are flooded.
Periodical studies to establish :
ü The quality of surface water The water levels.
ü The quality of ground water.
ü The quality of wastewater emitted from more significant sources in the wetland areas (the main sewer collector in Belene, the Nova Cherna pig farm)
ü The condition of soils in the areas of local monitoring;
ü The quality of sediments in the Peschensko and Martvo marshes in the Persina NP, and the Bruslen marsh in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality,.
ü Data about polluters in the region.
ü Analysis, processing and storage of the received information with a view to:
- its use in the operational monitoring and in the management of processes in the restored wetlands in the project areas.
- studies, required for efficient management of the restored wetlands in the Persina NP and in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality, as pilot projects for reduction of organic matter and nutrient pollution loads introduced into the receiving waters.
4. Duration of the local monitoring –
Consistent with the Agreement and its annexes, the baseline monitoring will take place between 2004 and 2005. The sampling follows an approved schedule. In two separate periods.
Spring-time period (April - May) aimed to establish the condition of the surface and ground water at high water level in the Danube (period of spring-time water).
Summer period (July, August and September) in order to establish the condition of the surface and ground water at low levels in the Danube
Stage І – June-September 2004
Period І – June 23 – July 20, 2004.
During this period and in accordance with the program, Hydrochemical monitoring of surface and ground water, and of the sediments in the marshes is carried out in the two areas – Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Period ІІ – August – September 2004 – summer period.
Hydrochemical monitoring of surface and ground water levels. A study of sediments from the marshes in the two project areas – Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Hydrobiological monitoring – during the period September 14 – September 21, 2004 some sampling for analysis of the communities of bottom-dwelling organisms (macrozoobenthos) was conducted in the Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Stage IІ – April-September 2005
The sampling follows an approved schedule. in two separate periods – spring time and summer time. The analysis and evaluation of the results from stage І was followed by identification of the points and parameters for continuation of studies in water, sediments and soils. Hydrobiological monitoring is conducted in parallel. The program, prepared and agreed with the Customer in advance, contains an updated baseline hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring.
Period І – April-May 2005, spring period
Hydrochemical monitoring of surface and ground water levels. Study of sediments from the marshes in the two areas – Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Hydrobiological monitoring – during the period April-May 2005 some sampling for analysis of the communities of bottom-dwelling organisms (macrozoobenthos) was conducted in the Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Period ІІ – July-August, 2005 – summer period
Hydrochemical monitoring of surface and ground water levels. Study of sediments from the marshes in the two areas – Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Based on an expert analysis and assessment of the results from the hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring (analysis and assessment of the results obtained during the first years of study in the two areas), use of up-to-date and archives information related to the issues at hand:
§ Evaluation of the quality of surface and ground water, and of the sediments in the areas in consideration.
§ Expected impact on the reduction of organic matter and nutrients in the restored project areas.
§ Expected reduced loads of organic pollution and of nutrients.
§ Condition of bottom dwelling macroinvertebrates prior to the flooding of the wetlands in the two areas: Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
§ Rational proposals for treatment of polluted waste water in the area.
§ Proposals for determining the expected self-treatment capacity of the restored wetlands.
§ Proposals for efficient management of the self-treatment processes in the areas under consideration for an optimal fulfilling of the main objectives, which are:
- maximum reduction of the loads of nutrient and organic pollution.
- protection of globally endangered species from the IUCN Red List followed by species of international/European significance for conservation (Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Bern Convention), and by the species of national significance (the Biodiversity Act), and increasing of biodiversity.
- ensuring of sustainable ecosystem development .
- proposals for siting of sampling points and determination of the typical parameters for inclusion in the operational hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring of the restored wetlands.
- proposal for studies for the use of wetlands to reduce the organic matter and nutrient pollution in the area.
5. Monitoring points
Hydrochemical monitoring; 26 surface water and 5 groundwater monitoring points have been identified and studied. Three sediment quality study points were studied in the project area marshes. Also, several monitoring points have been established in and outside the project areas for soil studies. Some of these points are proposed for inclusion in the Long-term program for monitoring of the ecological status of the restored wetlands and their adjacent areas.
Hydrobiological monitoring; There are 27 identified points – 10 in the Persina NP and 13 in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality. Some of these points are proposed for inclusion in the monitoring of the ecological status of the restored wetlands and the adjacent parts of the Danube.
Monitoring of soils. Several soil-study points have been identified around the marshes in several locations in the project areas and outside those, in their adjoining areas. Analyses have been made of 16 soil samples in the areas, which will be flooded during the restoration of the two wetlands (Annex 5 – 4 points in the Persina Nature Park and 6 points in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality).
The points are distributed as follows:
І The Persina NP
ü Monitoring points along the Danube
Five of the monitoring points are located on the Danube itself – upstream and downstream of the wetland, and on both sides of Persin (Belene) island, where the inlets and outlets will be constructed. Hydrochemical and Hydrobiological monitoring of the parameters determined in the program are conducted in these points in accordance with the schedule.
ü Monitoring points located on the drainage channels:
Hydrochemical monitoring – five of the monitoring points located in the drainage channels: four in the Persin island and one in the MDC (Main Drainage Channel) near its point of discharging into the Danube upstream of the town of Belene.
Hydrobiological monitoring – three of the monitoring points located in the drainage channels: twou in the Persin island and one in the MDC near its point of discharging into the Danube upstream of the town of Belene.
ü Monitoring points located in the existing marshes -
Two of the monitoring points are located in the two marshes in Persin island – the Pischensko and Martvo marshes. Hydrochemical monitoring and Hydrobiological monitoring have been conducted. Some sediment samples have been studied as well.
ü Monitoring points for wastewater from point sources in the studied areas.
One of the main sources of pollution in the future wetlands will be the main sewerage collector in the town of Belene. At present, the Danube receives untreated waste water from households and from the industries (food producing, machine building etc.) in the town and this waste water creates health risks for the population in the region. There is a need to establish waste water treatment facilities.
ü Groundwater Monitoring Points
A piesometer at the Pischensko marsh – hydrochemical monitoring of the parameters defined in the Baseline Monitoring Program. (Single samples have been taken from this point and the results are insufficient to characterise the ground water.)
ü Soil Monitoring Points – Soil samples from depths of 0-20 cm taken from a meadow (sandstone) near Martvoto marsh; from a meadow (sandstone) near the Peschensko marsh;, from meadows with maize within the flooded area; from meadows with maize outside the flooded areas
ІІ The Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
ü Monitoring points along the Danube
Four of the monitoring points are in the Danube itself – upstream and downstream of the wetland where the inlets and outlets will be constructed. Hydrochemical monitoring and Hydrobiological monitoring are envisaged for these points.
ü Monitoring points located on the drainage channels:
Hydrochemical monitoring – four of the monitoring points are located along the MDC and one point is located in the Tarchila river which is a regulated river, converted to a drainage channel for the adjacent area, entering the MDC. Hydrobiological monitoring is also conducted at this point.
ü Monitoring points located in the existing marshes
One Hydrochemical and Hydrobiological monitoring point is located in the Brushlen marsh. Some sediment samples have been studied as well.
ü Monitoring points in the former fisheries
Three of the monitoring points are in the former fish farms of Nova Cherna – East zone, in the basins with almost constant open water bodies. Hydrochemical monitoring and Hydrobiological monitoring are conducted in accordance with a schedule.
ü Monitoring points for wastewater from point sources in the studied areas.
One of the main point-sources of pollution in the future wetland is the Nova Cherna pig farm. Hydrochemical monitoring is carried out for the purpose of baseline monitoring. Water samples have been taken from the Russe RIEW for analysis and evaluation during the on-going monitoring of pollution in the area.
ü Groundwater Monitoring Points
Samples have been taken from a piesometer in the PS2 area. Single samples have been taken during September 2004, and from two boreholes along the Danube. Hydrochemical monitoring – parameters consistent with the adopted program were studied.
ü Soil Monitoring Points
soil samples from depths of 0-20 cm around the Bruslen marsh; around the Nova Cherna pig farm; around the fishponds in Nova Cherna; from the flooded area of the restored wetlands; from areas outside the ones to be flooded.
6. The laboratories of the analysis
Hydrochemical monitoring;
The hydrochemical monitoring of the surface water during the analysis stage comprised sampling, pre-processing and laboratory analysis of specialists from:
- The Pleven Regional Laboratory of the Executive Environmental Agency (MOEW) for the Persin NP
- The Ruse Regional Laboratory of the Executive Environmental Agency (MOEW) for the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
Hydrobiological monitoring;
The biological monitoring of surface water during the analysis of macroinvertebrate communities (macrozoobenthos) comprised sampling, pre-processing and laboratory analysis by specialists from the Veliko Tarnovo Regionual Laboratory of the Executive Environmental Agency (MOEW). This laboratory has a national-level accreditation consistent with ISO 17025 for hydrobiological analyses of surface water.
7. The methods of analysis
Baseline hydrochemical monitoring of the Persinal NP and the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
Sampling – Conducted using standard methods (consistent with the regulations of Bulgaria and the EU Water Framework Directive 2000/60/ЕС /
Methods of analysis – the analyses are consistent with the regulations (ISO, EN and BSS and, for certain types of analyses, the internal laboratory methods)
The sampling and studying of water (surface and ground) and of sediments is in accordance with a schedule prepared for the project.
Baseline hydrobiological monitoring of the Persinal NP and the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
The sampling was conducted using a manual hydrobiological network consistent with ISO 7828 in shallow water (maximum depths up to 1 m).
Methods for analysis – The laboratory microscopic analysis of the hydrobiological samples is consistent with the internal laboratory method, standardized and validated in accordance with the accreditation requirements.
The sampling and the study is in accordance with a confirmed schedule prepared for the Project.
8. Analysis of the results
8.1.Results from the hydrochemical analysis
І The Persina NP
ü Monitoring points along the Danube
Parameters studied:
Water level, temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation %, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity - permanganate, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, electrical conductivity, metal ions / (Cd, Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni), Mn and As, extractable substances, petrochemicals, pesticides.
The studied parameters of the water in the five points in the Danube within the future wetland meet all the receiving water Category III requirements, as per Regulation 7/08.08.1986 for the parameters and standards for determination of flowing surface-water quality. The level of pollution is relatively low. During the summer months, when the flow-rate in the Danube is lower, the values of the main parameters characteristic of organic pollution (BOD5, COD, permanganate oxidation capacity) and the content of nutrients (Nt and Pt) are insignificantly higher, but the values of the parameters under consideration are much lower than those required for Category III receiving water.
Also, hydrobiological monitoring was conducted in parallel during the two sampling seasons.
ü Monitoring points located in the existing marshes
Water parameters studied in the marshes: water level, temperature, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation in %, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue.
Studied parameters – sediments – metal ions (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni) AS, Mn, organic carbon.
The water in the monitoring points in Martvo and Pischensko marshes also exhibit high pollution levels. The marshes become dry during some summers. (sampling during September 2004).
The sediment samples exhibit low levels of the studied pollutants (metal ions, As, Mn).
Also, hydrobiological monitoring was conducted in parallel during the two sampling seasons.
ü Monitoring points located on the drainage channels:
Parameters studied:
Temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation in %, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, pesticides content.
The monitoring points are located in the drainage channels: four in the Persin island and one in the MDC (Main Drainage Channel) near its point of discharging into the Danube upstream of the town of Belene. The levels of all parameters of the study were low in the water and met most frequently the Category III requirements for surface flowing water.
In certain periods and during inefficient cleaning of certain sections, the content of organic matter is insignificantly higher than the ELV Category III.
Also, hydrobiological monitoring was conducted in parallel during the two sampling seasons.
ü Monitoring points for wastewater from point sources in the studied areas.
Parameters studied:
Temperature, рН, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue, extractable substances, petrochemicals, electrical conductivity.
The waste water from the main city sewerage collector in the town of Belene exhibit all characteristics, specific of urban wastewater. The waste water contained higher levels of organic matter (BOD5, COD, permanganate oxidation capacity), and nutrients (Nt и Pt).
ü Groundwater Monitoring Points
Parameters studied:
Water level, temperature, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, ammonia nitrogen, nitride nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, soluble phosphates, pesticides, electrical conductivity, alkalinity, Ca, Mg. Na, SO4, Cl.
The results from the physico-chemical analysis are limited at this stage and cannot be the basis for adequate evaluation. Single samples were studied. An operational monitoring system must be established in the future. A proposal was made to study the groundwater typical parameters (level, qualitative characteristic), in order to determine the impact of the restored wetlands.
ü Soil Monitoring Points
Parameters studied:
рН, metal ions (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni); water soluble SO4, Cl, НСО3, СО3, Ca, Mg, K; organic chloride pesticide.
The results from the physico-chemical analysis are limited at present. Singular samples only have been studied. There is a need for an operative monitoring system to enable soil characterization and determination of the influence of the restored wetlands on the adjacent areas.
ІІ The Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
ü Monitoring points along the Danube
Parameters studied:
Water level, temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation in %, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate) ,total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, electrical conductivity, metal ions (Cd, Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni), Mn and As, extractable substances, petrochemicals. Pesticide content determination.
The studied parameters of the water in the four points in the Danube within the future wetland meet all the receiving water Category III requirements, as per Regulation 7/08.08.1986 for the parameters and standards for determination of flowing surface-water quality.
ü Monitoring points located on the drainage channels:
Parameters studied:
Temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation in %, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, pesticides content.
Hydrochemical monitoring – four of the monitoring points are located along the MDC and one point is located in the Tarchila river which is a regulated river, converted to a drainage channel for the adjacent area, entering the MDC.
Hydrobiological monitoring is also conducted at this point.
The water from the drainage channel monitoring points exhibit low levels of the pollutants under consideration.
One of the points is in the Tarchila river which has been converted to a drainage channel for the adjacent area. It receives polluted water from point and non-point sources in the area. The levels of the parameters under consideration in the water samples are higher than those in the Danube, but meet the Category III requirements.
ü Monitoring points located in the existing marshes –
One Hydrochemical and Hydrobiological monitoring point is located in the Brushlen marsh. Some sediment samples have been studied as well.
Water parameters studied in the marshes: water level, temperature, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue.
Studied parameters – sediments – metal ions (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni) AS, Mn, organic carbon.
The water in the monitoring points in Brusliansko marshe also exhibit high pollution levels. The marsh becomes dry during some summers. (sampling during September 2004).
The sediment samples exhibit low levels of the studied pollutants (metal ions, As, Mn).
Also, hydrobiological monitoring was conducted in parallel during the two sampling seasons.
ü Monitoring points in the former fisheries
Three of the monitoring points are in the former fish farms of Nova Cherna – East zone, in the basins with almost constant open water bodies. The sampling follows a schedule.
Hydrochemical monitoring and Hydrobiological monitoring.
Parameters studied:
Temperature, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation in %, BOD5, COD, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue.
The water from the monitoring points exhibit low levels of the pollutants under consideration.
ü Monitoring points for wastewater from point sources in the studied areas.
Parameters studied:
Temperature, рН, BOD5, COD, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue, extractable substances.
One of the main point-sources of pollution in the future wetland is the Nova Cherna pig farm. At present, the waste water is not treated to the required level and the pollution loads are substantial. The waste water exhibits high levels of pollution such as organic matter (BOD5, COD, permanganate oxidation capacity), suspended solids and nutrients (Nt and Pt). The samples analysed by the Ruse RIEW during various periods of time yield similar results.
ü Groundwater Monitoring Points
Parameters studied
Water level, temperature, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, ammonia nitrogen, nitride nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, soluble phosphates, contents of 21 OCR (organochloric substances and N, P - pesticides) electrical conductivity, alkalinity, Ca, Mg, Na, SO4, Cl.
Samples have been taken from a piesometer in the PS2 area. and from two boreholes on the dikes.
The results from the physico-chemical analysis are limited at this stage and cannot be the basis for adequate evaluation. Single samples were studied. An operational monitoring system must be established in the future. A proposal was made to study the groundwater typical parameters (level, qualitative characteristic), in order to determine the impact of the restored wetlands.
ü Soil Monitoring Points
Parameters studied:
рН, metal ions (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni); water soluble SO4, Cl, НСО3, СО3, Ca, Mg, K; organic chloride pesticide.
The results from the physico-chemical analysis are limited at present. Singular samples only have been studied. There is a need for an operative monitoring system to enable soil characterization and determination of the influence of the restored wetlands on the adjacent areas.
8.2.Results from the hydrobiological analysis
І The Persina NP
No macroinvertebrates (macrozoobenthos) have been found in three of the monitored points. These are the drainage channels near the Persin 1 and 2 pumping stations where water is available throughout the year, and in the Martvoto marsh. Only two mollusc species (water snails Planorbarius/Coretus corneus and Lymnaea stagnalis) have been found in the Pischensko marsh, and these species are capable of surviving for some time buried in the humid mud.
The complete dying out of the benthic communities of microorganisms in the drainage channels in Belene island is caused by complete oxygen depletion in combination with the accumulation of significant quantities of rotting organic matter near the two pumping stations (perhaps hydrogen sulphide and others toxic gases). Perhaps cleaning up of the channels (if recently done) and the operations of the pumps are also a contribution.
The absence or poor composition of species in the benthic communities in the two main marshes of the Belene island (subject of restoration) is caused mainly by periods of drying during the last 20 years. In all cases, Peschinsko marsh retains water (and residual moisture) for longer periods than the larger Martvo marsh.
The remaining 6 points exhibit normally developed communities of benthic macroinvertebrates (macrozoobenthos). There is an interesting case of the MDC near the town of Belene which is not connected to the wetland restoration area but still is important for the long-term monitoring of surface water in the Persina Nature Park. Species capable of surviving periods of draught or with a very short lifecycle prevail in this MDC.
The five points in the Danube indicate typical communities of the benthic macroinvertebrates (macrozoobenthos) in this stretch of the river. No toxic effects or effects of serious organic pollution on the macroinvertebrate fauna have been registered. Species typical of muddy or sandy bottoms prevail, and usually the invasive species zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) prevails in all points.
ІІ The Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
No macroinvertebrates have been found in three of the monitoring points are in the former fish farms of Nova Cherna – East zone. This shows that the fisheries where open water is present at all times exhibit poor oxygen regimes with periods of complete depletion of dissolved oxygen during the summer, when processes of decay prevail. The aquatic ecosystems in these water bodies are completely degraded.
A similar situation exists also in the Brushlen marsh where the aquatic ecosystem has deteriorated and only two mussel species (mud snails) that are capable of surviving partial drying up if buried in wet mud are found. These are the same species found in the Peschinsko marsh on Belene island – Planorbarius/Coretus corneus and Lymnaea stagnalis.
Well developed communities of macroinvertebrates are found along the entire length of the MDC and also in the Tarchila river. Species that are indicators of heavy silting of the bottom (molluscs, oligochaetes) prevail. The rivers and channels with the highest organic pollution are the Tarchila river and the MDC point upstream of the East zone where the species Chironromus gr. thummii, an indicator of heavy organic pollution, prevails.
Concerning the studied section of the Danube within the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality, the communities of microinvertebrates inhabiting muddy or sandy bottoms have been registered as typical in this section. The point in the Danube upstream of the town of Tutrakan, near the drainage system outlet point, is different, dominated by species indicative of serious organic pollution such as Tubifex tubifex and Chironromus gr. thummii.
9. Analysis and evaluation of the baseline monitoring data compared with other research data.
ü Surface water condition data
The water in the Danube is the subject of many studies, monitoring and management.
Observation and measurement monitoring points have been set up along the Danube to control surface water quality, and are part of the national monitoring network. The monitored parameters may be used for evaluation of the condition of water, although there are no monitoring points near the project areas. The sampling frequency is 12 times each year, with 20 main physico-chemical water quality parameters being monitored in all points. The following parameters present the quality of water in a most general manner: dissolved oxygen (DO), BOD5, permanganate oxidizing capacity (COD-Mn), ammonia (NH4- N) and nitrate (NO3- N) nitrogen, phosphates (PO4). There is a clear trend toward improvement of the parameters dissolved oxygen and BOD5, and, to a lesser extent, ammonia nitrate and nitrate nitrogen. The parameters dissolved oxygen and phosphates do not change significantly. The water in the Danube conforms to its category for the studied parameters, and the parameters exhibit higher values after the discharging of untreated waste water from the settlements, but are still within the limits required for Category III receiving water.
All parameters exhibit a trend for improvement which is caused by the diminishing loads of industrial and farming pollution, and the main reason is also the increased control and efficient management of water.
The hydrobiological monitoring has also exhibited a downward trend for the points and for the length of polluted stretches, which is caused by the decreasing industrial (closing of production facilities, reduced production, increased control and efficient management of the environmental media).
A number of other studies have shown the same trend (studies in the project areas required for the environmental assessment of the project for restoration of the wetlands in Belene and Kalimok-Brushlen, studies under a number of programmes for the Danube, etc.).
There is a need in the future, when the wetlands are restored, to follow the information from water monitoring in the Danube.
The national groundwater monitoring network comprises hydrogeological points. The ground water is assessed based on information from the regional laboratories which are part of the Executive Environment Protection Agency. The samples have been analysed for the parameters specified in Article 33 of Regulation 5 on the Procedures and Method for Establishing the Network and on the Activities of the National Water Monitoring System (SG, issue 95, 08.11.2000): temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, oxidation-restoration potential, permanganate oxidizing capacity, electrical conductivity, content of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potash, total iron, manganese, carbohydrates, chlorides, sulphates, phosphates, ammonia ions, nitrite and nitrate ions, total dry residue. The ground water monitoring points are the subject of seasonal studies (four times each year) or at each half-year period (twice annually). Once each year – during the third quarter – analyses are carried out for heavy metals such as zinc, lead, copper, nickel, cadmium, chromium, and, in some points, arsenic and selenium. Analyses for pesticides are conducted once during the year, in some of the points. The results are compared with the parameters for protection of groundwater against pollution – ecological threshold (ET) and pollution threshold (PT) – recommended in Appendix 3 under Regulation 1 on the studying, using and protection of ground water (SG issue 58, 07.07.2000). Part of the National Groundwater Monitoring Network is located in groundwater bodies and is part of the European groundwater monitoring network – EUROWATERNET ground water. Presently, data about the content of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate ions, as well as dissolved oxygen in the ground water are processed and submitted. Data about hazardous substances in the ground water such as pesticides etc. have been required as of 2003. These data are presented once each year.
Much of Bulgaria’s groundwater is used for drinking water supplies. The groundwater monitoring data show local pollution in shallow aquifers with nitrates exceeding the pollution threshold, PT, at 30 mg/l. The data shows also that in approximately 25% of the studied points, nitrates had exceeded the limits for nitrate concentration in drinking water (50 mg/l) (attached Map of Nitrate Pollution of Groundwater in Bulgaria). No indications of pollution with nitrates, phosphates and pathogens have been found in the deep aquifers (used for abstraction of drinking water). The monitoring data for the entire country and, thus, for the Danube basin indicate a good general status of the groundwater. The most substantial excesses above the pollution threshold are those for nitrate ions, but a trend toward reduced concentrations has been observed during the recent years. Above-standard quantities of total iron and manganese have been established in certain areas, but this is related mainly to the nature of water hosting rocks and to the oxidation-reduction potential of the aquatic environment.
The measures for protection and improvement of groundwater are pre-defined by the established condition of the groundwater. The groundwater formation processes are complex and diverse and dependent on many factors determining the intensity and direction of the various processes and their occurrence in the aquifer structures.
Nitrates are the most frequently registered pollutants in Bulgaria’s groundwater.
The Danube basin – The most substantial excess of nitrate pollution occurs in the Danube basin, in the north-Bulgarian hydrogeological region. The highest levels have been registered in the Quaternary aquifers, including those in the village of Brushlen.
In all cases the source of above-standard concentrations in the groundwater is farming (including animal farms) which does not conform to good farming practices, and may, in individual cases, be caused by the lack of sewage systems in certain urban areas.
The content of phosphates in the groundwater – in almost all cases the measured levels of phosphates in groundwater is below the pollution threshold.
Content of heavy metals in the groundwater – Analysis have been made for total iron, manganese, total chromium, cadmium, lead, copper, zinc and nickel. The total iron and manganese have been analysed two to four times each year, while the remaining heavy metals have been analysed only once. In individual points the high iron and manganese concentrations had been caused by lithological features such as the presence of manganese concretions in the sandy layers of the aquifers.
Regarding the remaining heavy metals, water samples from the Danube basin area have been studied for total chromium and in 18.5% of the cases its concentration had exceeded the environmental threshold (0.005 mg/l) with values lower than the pollution threshold. Regarding the content of cadmium, samples have been analysed an only irregular and singular insignificant levels exceeding the environmental threshold (0.001 mg/l) have been observed. Studies of arsenic content in single samples have shown small excesses above the pollution threshold (0.003 mg/l) mainly in the north-western part of the basin. The analyses for content of lead, copper, zinc and nickel show only irregular and singular levels exceeding the ecological threshold. The higher levels of copper have probably been caused by plant protection chemicals.
Pesticides in the groundwater
The Danube river basin – Studies were made in this area for pesticides in 23 groundwater samples from 23 monitoring points. The following pesticides were analysed – gamma-hexachlorcyclohexane, aldrin, dieldrin, endrin, isodrin, heptachlor, cis-heptachlor-epoxy, trans-heptachlor epoxy, atrazine, propazine, simazine, ametrine, prometrine, terbutrine, prometron; metoxychlor, DDT isomers and metabolites (op-DDT, pp-DDT, op-DDD, pp-DDD, opDDE, pp-DDE), and, in some samples, - alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta- and epsilon-hexachlorcyclohexane, hexachlorbenzene, trans-, oxy-, and cis-chlordane, endosulphane I and II, and myrex. There have been points in which the environmental thresholds for atrazine, propazine and simazine had been exceeded but still had been far below the pollution threshold.
ü Data from studies in the project areas
A number of studies in the project areas allow the following conclusions
The Belene Island – the alluvial deposits here and in the Belene pan valley are represented by a two-layer complex built by underlying gravely-sandy and upper clayey-sandy layers. Unconfined porous water has formed in the gravely-sandy layer. Its level is directly dependent on the water level in the Danube due to the full hydraulic link through the gravely layer with the riverbed. This water is drained by the Danube and by the drainage channels. Chemical activity – 0.38-1.28 gr/l of mineralization. By type this water is carbohydrate-calcium-magnesium. It features higher content of Mn and Fe.
Kalimok-Brushlen – the alluvium in the low-lying floodplain of the Danube in the Brushlen lowland comprises gravel, sand and clay, with an aquifer of unconfined porous water existing in the gravel and sands. The groundwater table is 0-8 m from the surface. The underground flow is toward the Danube which comprises a drainage artery for the groundwater in the whole region. The groundwater is recharged by precipitation water seeping from the floodplain, from seepage during high-water levels in the Danube, and from the groundwater flow in the underlying Lower Cretaceous karst aquifer. The groundwater is fresh, with mineral content of 0.28-0.82 g/l, total hardness of 4.4-8.6 mgekv/l (medium hard and hard HCO3, CA and Mg). The natural dynamic reserve of the aquifer is very large here, since large quantities of water from the Lower Cretaceous aquifer flows through the alluvium.
The groundwater in the area is used for various purposes. There are drinking and production water supply facilities serving the urban areas in the region. The groundwater in the region of the village of Brushlen contains increased levels of nitrates.
o The inventory, analysis and evaluation of data from existing studies have served as the basis for preparation of the Baseline monitoring program and for determining of the parameters in the various points.
o The studies conducted during the baseline monitoring of groundwater in the two project areas have involved singular samples from non-maintained piesometers and the results cannot be used for proper assessment. There is a need for groundwater monitoring systems in both areas, and the data from these systems will allow efficient control and management of the two areas.
10. Conclusions, recommendations, proposals
Conclusions
ü The parameters of the water in the Danube reflect the organic pollution and the content of nutrients that meet the Category III receiving water requirements (in the studied sections, and lower). However, due to the larger water masses, the Danube deposits the limiting pollution load of organic matter and nutrients into the Black Sea. The non-point pollution is significant and the wetlands, if managed efficiently, can prove the main items for its reduction.
ü The present study was limited and its main purpose was to start the monitoring network for hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring in the Persina NP and Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality before the restoration of the wetlands and before the introduction of operative monitoring.
ü The start of hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring has been made in the wetland restoration areas under consideration.
ü The hydrobiological and hydrochemicl monitoring are the main elements of efficient management of the processes occurring there in order to achieve optimal conditions for reduction of organic and nutrient pollution loads.
ü The groundwater hydrochemical monitoring network must be implemented as well, because the present studies are rather limited.
ü The soil monitoring must reflect mainly the exchange of nutrients.
ü The two areas where wetland restoration is envisioned contain water bodies (except the Danube and the MDC in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality) with degraded ecosystems without any communities of macroinvertebrates or with a very poor composition of species.
ü The degradation of the aquatic ecosystems in the two areas envisaged for wetland restoration is caused by periodic drying out and/or disturbed oxygen regime.
ü The Tarchila river (presently corrected and transformed into a drainage channel) in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality is being polluted from the surrounding villages and farmlands.
ü The drainage system in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality is the source of local pollution (such as organic matter) of this sleeve of the Danube, at the point of discharge (near the Tutrakan Pumping Station), which shows that organic matter and nutrients are drawn from the drained areas.
ü A good indicator of successful flooding will be the change of the benthic macroinvertebrate communities in the points in the two marshes (Peschinsko and Martvoto) in Belene island, and in the three points in the former fisheries in Nova Cherna, East zone, in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality.
Recommendations
ü Inclusion in the operative monitoring of the restored wetlands of certain water and sediment monitoring points.
- Monitoring points in the Danube for water and sediment monitoring at the inlets and outlets of the wetlands in the Persina NP (2 points) and in the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality (2 points).
Parameters studied
Water level, temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, saturation with oxygen, BOD5, COD, capacity for oxidation, suspended solids, total nitrogen (ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates.
The information should include the values of the Danube water parameters into the National Monitoring data.
If information about specific types of pollution are received, no pollution of the wetlands must be allowed by means of inlet management. Metal ion sediments (Fe, Zn, Cu,Cd,Pb,Co, Cr,Ni) AS, Mn,
- Monitoring points in the wetlands.
Parameters studied in accordance with a schedule.
Water level, temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, saturation with oxygen, BOD5, COD, capacity for oxidation, organic carbon, suspended solids, total nitrogen (ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates.
Metal ion sediments (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Ni) AS, Mn, organic carbon.
Periodically, in accordance with an approved schedule.
- Water monitoring points in the drainage channels.
Parameters studied in accordance with a schedule.
Water quantities, temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, saturation with oxygen, BOD5, COD, capacity for oxidation, suspended solids, total nitrogen (ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates. The content of pesticides has been determined during the spring time period to provide information about pesticide use (types, quantities).
- Monitoring points for wastewater from point sources in the studied areas.
Annual monitoring at the point of discharge of waste water from the town of Belene.
Parameters studied :
Water quantity, temperature, рН, BOD5 COD, permanganate capacity for oxidation, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue, electrical conductivity, extractable substances, petrochemicals.
Monitoring point for waste water from the Nova Cherna pig farm, monitored once each year.
Parameters studied:
Water quantity, temperature, рН, BOD5, COD, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate), total phosphorus and soluble phosphates, total dry residue, extractable substances.
Monitoring point in the Tarchila river, which has been regulated and transformed into a channel draining the adjacent area and discharging into the MDC.
Parameters studied
Water level, temperature, opacity, рН, dissolved oxygen, saturation with oxygen, BOD5, COD, capacity for oxidation, suspended solids, total nitrogen (organic, ammonia, nitride, nitrate),total phosphorus and soluble phosphates during the spring and summer (low water periods). Determining the content of pesticides (once each year, if used in the region, and information about the type used)
ü Groundwater monitoring in the flooded areas.
The main objectives of implementation of an efficient monitoring network are :
- determination of the level and of the main parameters that define the quality of groundwater in the wetlands
- determination of the reduction effect for the pollution from point and non-point sources of pollution in the areas under consideration.
Proposal for groundwater study parameters.
Water level, temperature, рН, dissolved oxygen, oxidation capacity, suspended solids, ammonia nitrogen, nitride nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, soluble phosphates, electrical conductivity, alkalinity, Ca, Mg, Na, SO4, Cl.
Determination of pesticide levels only in the case of proven necessity to do so.
(Periodicity – spring season at high water levels in the Danube)
ü Monitoring of the soils in the flooded areas.
The main objectives of implementation of the efficient monitoring network are:
- determination of the main parameters of soil pollution in the wetlands.
- determination of the effect of reduction of the pollution from point and non-point sources of pollution in the areas under consideration.
Proposed study parameters for the soil samples
рН, nutrients (N,P,K), pesticide content following complete information about the use of pesticides in adjacent areas (by quantity and type) periodically, during the spring and during high water levels in the Danube. The content of metal ions must be studied in accordance with an approved schedule (once every 3 years).
ü The restored wetland monitoring should include also hydrobiological baseline monitoring points.
ü Monitoring of fertilizers in the region, quantities of applied fertilizers (type and parameters), plant protection chemicals (type and parameters), pesticides etc., mosquito control chemicals, (type and parameters), etc. The use of pesticides, herbicides, insecticides etc. should be subject to strict control and only substances with certificates, and with permits by the Ministry of Healthcare, should be used in strict compliance with the instructions.
ü Proposal for cooperation between the park organisations and the laboratories of the Executive Environment Protection Agency when operation monitoring of the restored wetlands is introduced.
- There is a need for a program of studies by the park administrations in the restored wetlands. The park administrations will be provided with the necessary portable equipment. Scheduled monitoring will be a secure guarantee for efficient wetland management and optimisation of processes, and for increased level of reduction of the introduced pollution loads (organic matter and nutrients) and for increasing of biodiversity in the area. The more frequent measurement of dissolved oxygen in certain areas of the wetlands (pH, opacity, N-NH4, N- NO2, N-NO3, P-PO4, COD) increases the amount of data and the possibility for proper prediction and efficient measures. The data from the groundwater monitoring network (water levels, pH, opacity, N-NH4, N- NO2, N-NO3, P-PO4, oxidizing capacity) and its maintenance in a good condition will ensure good cooperation with the laboratories of the Executive Environment Protection Agency. The laboratories of the park administrations will store the entire database.
- The laboratories of the Executive Environment Protection Agency will carry out operational monitoring of the main and specific parameters consistent with a programme and a schedule.
Proposals for optimal use of the wetlands to reduce the loads of organic and nutrient pollution
ü Proposals for optimal use of the restored wetlands to reduce the loads of organic and nutrient pollution discharged into the Danube.
- Proposals for optimal use of the restored wetland in the project area of Belene NP:
· Implementation of program studies to establish the self-purification effect of reduction in the wetlands of organic matter and nutrients from the loads deposited into the receiving water by diffuse sources.
· Implementation of program studies and treatment of the wastewater from the existing buildings of the Ministry of Internal Affairs on the Belene Island.
· Implementation of program studies and treatment of the wastewater from the industries and the population of the town of Belene.
- Proposals for optimal use of the restored wetland in the project area of the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality
· Implementation of program studies to establish the effect of reduction in the wetlands of organic matter and nutrients from the loads deposited into the receiving water by diffuse sources.
· Implementation of program studies and treatment of the wastewater from the existing Nova Cherna pig farm. Preparation of an action plan in consideration of the intentions of the owner of the pig farm to resolve one of the ecological problems in the area (treatment of wastewater in the pig farm). Proposal of alternative solutions and technical and economic justification of the level of treatment.
· The experimental studies may serve as the basis for obtaining of data for management of the treatment processes that achieve reduction of pollution (organic matter and nutrients) in the wetlands.
· Experimental studies for discharging of water from the Tarchila river into the wetlands in order to reduce the pollution load deposited into the Danube.
Conclusion
The restoration of the wetlands in the Persin NP and the Kalimok-Brushlen Protected Locality will contribute for:
- Preservation of globally endangered species from the IUCN Red List followed by species of international/European significance for conservation (Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Bern Convention), and by the species of national significance (the Biodiversity Act), and increasing of biodiversity.
- Following the conclusions, recommendations and proposals, the Program studies and implementation of sustainable project solutions (following a technical and economic justification) will prove the actual practical effect of the wetlands in reducing the loads of pollution discharged from an area into the Danube.
- The implementation of the two pilot projects will create a real possibility for studies related to pollution reduction and use of the experience in other wetlands.