Fish Adventure
Set off on the Fish Adventure and, through play, discover the world of local waters, fish farming and fish cuisine.
Themed trails
The Added Value of Water
About
(opens in a new tab)LEADER – Community-Led Local Development
Fund: EAFRD – European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development
Project Duration: October 2025 – December 2027
Project Partners: LAG Gorenjska košarica za podeželje – BSC (Lead Partner), PP1 Zavod za turizem Preddvor, PP2 Zavod za turizem Cerklje, PP3 Feel Green
Total Project Value (net eligible costs + VAT): €86,679.60, of which €69,343.68 (80%) is co-financed by the EAFRD. This is a non-investment project.
Project Description
Four neighbouring Local Action Groups (LAGs) from Slovenia and Austria – LAG Srce Slovenije, LAG Gorenjska košarica, LAG Zgornje Savinjske in Šaleške doline, and Regionalkooperation Unterkärnten – have joined forces in this cooperation project. Together, they cover the entire geographical area of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps. All four groups previously collaborated on a joint project that resulted in the development of the long-distance Water Trail of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps, connecting the entire region. The current project will further strengthen and deepen their cooperation, particularly with the Austrian LAG.
A similar partnership has been established in the Italian region of Umbria, where two neighbouring Local Action Groups, GAL Valle Umbra e Sibillini and GAL Ternano, operate in the Umbrian and Apennine regions. These groups aim to develop water-related initiatives inspired by those already implemented in the Kamnik–Savinja Alps. The project will facilitate a mutual exchange of knowledge and experience between Slovenia, Austria and Italy.
The cooperation project The Added Value of Water addresses key challenges related to the sustainable management of water resources in rural communities, including pollution, climate change and inefficient water use. Drinking water is a strategic resource, and its protection and responsible use are essential for long-term quality of life, agriculture, tourism and economic development.
The project builds on the rich natural water resources found in two geographically similar mountain destinations spanning Slovenia, Austria and Italy. In Slovenia and Austria, the project focuses on the cross-border area of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps, while in Italy it encompasses part of the Apennines known as the Umbrian–Marche Apennines (Appennino Umbro-Marchigiano), which extend across Umbria.
Both mountain regions are characterised by exceptionally well-preserved natural environments. Their abundant water resources offer significant potential for the development of sustainable tourism. The Kamnik–Savinja Alps and the Umbrian–Marche Apennines are home to valuable natural areas where springs and rivers support diverse flora and fauna while providing essential resources for local communities.
Underground water reserves and numerous natural springs are particularly valuable, yet they remain vulnerable to environmental pressures that threaten their quality.
In addition to their outstanding natural heritage, both regions are renowned for their rich cultural heritage. Historic towns, churches and villages nestled in mountain valleys and along hillsides reflect centuries of interaction between people and nature. Both destinations offer unique opportunities for green tourism, hiking and exploring distinctive rural landscapes.
Through this project, we are introducing practical solutions for the development of sustainable tourism products based on aquatic ecosystems. We are bringing together local stakeholders, experts and educational institutions while encouraging community-based water management that delivers direct benefits to rural residents.
By combining environmental protection with development opportunities, the project introduces an innovative and comprehensive approach to more effective water management and contributes to the achievement of sustainable development goals.
The project will build upon existing initiatives and encourage the exchange of knowledge and experience among partners in developing both destinations.
The central focus will be on water – not only as a natural resource but also as a foundation for healthy lifestyles, sustainable entrepreneurship and environmentally responsible solutions that strengthen resilience to climate change.
As part of the project, we will develop a management plan for both destinations – the Kamnik–Savinja Alps and Umbria – based on cooperation and a bottom-up approach. The plan will provide a foundation for the future development of both regions and will be prepared in collaboration with local stakeholders, including municipalities, tourism organisations and associations.
We will develop and enhance sustainable tourism products connected to natural water resources, with a particular emphasis on slow tourism and innovation.
Joint promotional and marketing activities will be organised for both destinations, including the development of a shared visual identity and website content.
Drinking Water Festivals will be organised for local communities, including young people, to raise awareness of the importance of protecting water resources and maintaining water quality as a foundation for long-term sustainable tourism.
We will also organise international meetings and study visits to exchange knowledge and test water-themed hiking trails. These activities will involve project partners, tourist guides, journalists and local residents.
The project will contribute to the objectives and measures of the Local Development Strategy of LAG Gorenjska košarica za podeželje and is of strategic importance to the entire area covered by the LAG.
Project Objectives
- Sustainable Development of Both Destinations: Both regions are committed to sustainable development and aim to establish tourism destinations that respect their natural characteristics and ensure the long-term preservation of water resources, in line with the global Sustainable Development Goals set out in the 2030 Agenda.
- Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: By protecting natural water resources and raising awareness among local communities about the importance of clean drinking water, we aim to help preserve water quality and ensure access to safe drinking water for all.
- Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: By promoting sustainable tourism based on the conservation of natural heritage, we contribute to sustainable rural development and improve the quality of life in local communities.
- Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: By encouraging the responsible use of natural resources and introducing sustainable tourism products that respect the environment and local resources, we promote responsible consumption and production.
- Goal 13 – Climate Action: By developing sustainable tourism products and promoting environmentally friendly solutions that address the challenges of climate change, we contribute to climate change mitigation and greater resilience to climate-related challenges.
- Goal 15 – Life on Land: Through sustainable management of water resources and natural areas, we contribute to biodiversity conservation and the protection of ecosystems and natural habitats.
- Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Connecting regions across Austria, Italy and Slovenia and strengthening cooperation between Local Action Groups will empower partnerships and facilitate the exchange of knowledge to achieve sustainable development goals.
Useful Links
European Commission – European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) (opens in a new tab)
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