The initiative is co-financed by the European Union European Union and aims to improve water quality and protect valuable ecosystems on both sides of the border.

The project includes a number of activities aimed at improving the condition of the lakes and water reservoirs. The first effects are already visible. At ul. Wyszyński, separators were installed to purify rainwater flowing into the Ełk Lake. As a result, less pollutants enter the lake coming from city streets.

The next important stage will be the revitalization of the pond in the estate North II, known to the locals as "Bajorko". The city has already signed an agreement for implementation of comprehensive corrective actions to improve both the condition of the environment as well as recreational values of this place.

As part of the works, a modern system will be installed microbubble aeration of water and seven biological islands floating plants planted with vegetation. In addition, for two years bioremediation of the tank with the use of specialized preparations microbiological processes supporting the natural processes of water purification.

The first application is planned for this week microbiological preparation. Before the start of the main activities, the there will also be detailed tests of the condition of the reservoir, including, m.in, measurement the amount of bottom sediment, water transparency and parameters such as the oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus. The results of this research will provide a reference for evaluation of the effectiveness of the activities carried out.

The project also assumes the preparation of a specialist report on the possibility of reclamation of Lake Ełk. It will allow to identify the directions for further action to protect one of the most important elements of the natural environment of our city.

All planned activities are to be completed by July 2027. Thanks to the implementation of the "Water is wealth" project, Ełk gains more tools to protect their water resources, and residents – cleaner, healthier and more attractive places to relax.

The project "Water is wealth: improvement of the condition of water reservoirs"  is co-financed by European Union from the European Regional Development Fund under the "European Territorial Cooperation 2021-2027" of the Cooperation Programme INTERREG VI-A Lithuania – Poland 2021-2027.

Project co-financing: 1,205,615.57 EUR.ERDF
co-financing amount: EUR 964,492.45 (80%).

Total the value of the project for the Municipality of the City of Ełk is: EUR 393,177.99 (EUR 1,694,597.13 PLN).
Amount of funding is EUR 314,542.39 (PLN 1,355,677.70)

Realization: 1 August 2025 – July 31, 2027.

The project partners are:

Administration Druskininkai Commune – Leader of the
Municipality of Miasto project Ełk - Project Partner

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