Safeguarding Central Europe's largest floodplain forest ecosystem

At the confluence of the Morava and Dyje Rivers, where Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia meet, lies Central Europe's largest floodplain forest ecosystem. This vast wetland landscape, protected under the Ramsar Convention, is characterised by riparian forests, meadows, and waterways which support a rich diversity of species. 

To strengthen conservation efforts, the Czech government approved the designation of the Soutok Protected Landscape Area on 15 January 2025. 

This newly protected area encompasses a significant portion of the floodplain forest, providing a vital habitat for 130 specially protected animal species and over 50 rare plant species. The Soutok Protected Landscape Area will support operations to restore the area’s water regime and balance conversation efforts and traditional uses of the area, such as fishing. The decision marks a significant step in safeguarding one of Central Europe’s most valuable ecosystems. 

This Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, acquired on 21 October 2024, shows the Soutok Protected Landscape Area at the Czech borders with Austria and Slovakia. 

Open data from the Copernicus Sentinel satellites enables the monitoring of essential ecosystems around the world, helping to ensure that their wildlife and unique environmental characteristics are well preserved.