Advancing freshwater restoration

1. What’s most important:
   

   To have staying power and be resistant to frustration.

2. Do this, not that: 
   

   Communicate with everyone about the necessity of the projects. Do not make decisions over the heads of those affected.

3. Always start by:
   

   A well-thought-out project and concept that can be realised with the resources provided and within the time frame.

4. What to do when things get difficult…:
   

   Think flexibly and adapt the project to the new conditions if necessary.

5. 5 simple steps to:
   
   1. Think about it
   2. What is realistically possible
   3. Where can I get the money
   4. Who will implement it
   5. Let's do it
      
      
6. The biggest barrier and what I am trying to do about it:
   Convince the population and all stakeholders that the projects and funds are necessary and will bring long-term added value to everyone. This can significantly increase the acceptance required for implementing projects.

Being always fascinated by animals, plants and life itself, I decided to study biology and quickly detected my love for everything related to freshwater biology and ecology. After finishing my doctorate on freshwater fish parasitology and a research stay at the university Duisburg-Essen I got the opportunity to work for the NGO Fondation Hëllef fir d’Natur in the field of freshwater ecology and freshwater mussel protection. As most freshwater mussels use a fish species as a host to reproduce, this position really offered everything from my field of interest. Therefore, I did not hesitate at all to say yes. Meanwhile I work almost for 20 years in this field 

• Biology with a focus on aquatic ecology University of Karlsruhe -Germany
• Doctorate in fish parasitology / University of Karlsruhe – Germany

Almost 20 years ago, we started breeding highly endangered freshwater mussels with modest means to prevent local populations from becoming extinct. Exchanging ideas with colleagues from abroad has helped us make steady progress. Our breeding station is now known throughout Europe and beyond, and we have passed on our knowledge to many other environmentalists. This has led to the breeding of endangered freshwater mussel species throughout Europe. However, the most important aspect in my work is and remains the preservation and renaturation of our freshwater habitats. Without them, even the bred animals cannot survive in the long term.

Being in nature itself and seeing the condition of our waters live during monitoring. Passing on the necessity of freshwater protection to future generations.