Our conservation research team regularly works with students, graduates and post-graduates from universities all over Europe and beyond, in order to for them to carry out Prespa-based research or analyse the data the SPP’s work has generated, and has also supervised successful internships. And for budding citizen-scientists, we’ve developed an app to facilitate uploading data they’ve gathered on Prespa’s plant species, adding to a database on Prespa’s flora and aiming to support the effective protection, restoration and management of the plants and ecosystems of the area.
The SPP has hosted volunteers in many of its activities, from placements from the European Voluntary Service to volunteer camera-trapping surveys of large mammals, as well as an exciting new pilot programme for volunteers to work with all three PrespaNet partners in each of the countries sharing the Prespa lakes, as well as regular clean-up days along the lakeshore or streams and river. Our various volunteer activities aim to harness the enthusiasm and energy of those wanting to support Prespa’s biodiversity and landscapes, as well as to give opportunities for difficult-to-access practical experience to those considering conservation careers.
Lastly, the SPP’s groundbreaking PoliPrespa project, which saw a wealth of participatory activities carried out across the full spectrum of social, economic and environmental domains in Prespa, not only set up a Local Action Group as part of the project, in order to bring the whole community together to steer future initiatives, but has also established an innovative new digital platform for the area that will seek direct input from residents and visitors alike on key Prespa issues, aiming to act as a tool for facilitating and strengthening local co-governance, as well as an information portal for the region.
There are plenty of ways to get involved with the SPP’s work, learn more about Prespa or contribute to the effort to conserve the wonderful nature, biodiversity and landscapes of Prespa. Whatever your level of interest or ability you can find out more from our social media channels, where we regularly post updates and calls for participation, or sign up below to receive our newsletter every 4 months and occasional mailouts with news or points of interest.