More and Better Habitats for Waterbirds – 2026 10th August 2026

More and Better Habitats for Waterbirds – 2026

As part of the Waterfowlers Network's ongoing conservation efforts, hunters have once again raised funds to improve breeding habitats for waterbirds in Finland. These initiatives help strengthen waterbird populations across Northern Europe and contribute to healthier, more resilient ecosystems.

Text: Claus Lind Christensen

Photo: Suomen Riistanhoiti- Säätio 

The latest project supported by the Waterfowlers Network is the restoration of an 86-hectare wetland at Kurjenneva in southwestern Finland. Once completed, the restored wetland will provide valuable breeding habitat for a wide range of waterbird species, including the Eurasian Wigeon, Eurasian Teal, and Northern Pintail.

The restoration is carried out by the Finnish Game Foundation, an independent foundation established by the Finnish Government and the Finnish Hunters' Association. The foundation works to conserve wildlife habitats, promote biodiversity, and support sustainable game management throughout Finland.

The Kurjenneva restoration forms part of the EPKA Project, an ambitious initiative to restore approximately 110 hectares of former peat extraction areas into functioning wetlands and peatland ecosystems.

In addition to creating high-quality breeding habitats for waterbirds, the project is designed to direct water through the restored wetlands, allowing natural filtration before it leaves the catchment area. This approach improves water quality while delivering a range of environmental benefits, including increased biodiversity, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, climate change mitigation, and enhanced water protection.

Although the project delivers broad environmental benefits, improving habitats for declining waterbird species remains one of the Finnish Game Foundation's primary objectives.

Thanks to the commitment of hunters across the Waterfowlers Network, €5,900 has been donated to support the Kurjenneva restoration. The contribution was generously provided by the National Association of Regional Game Councils and Jægernes Naturfond.

The Waterfowlers Network is proud to support practical conservation projects that create healthier wetlands and secure better breeding conditions for Europe's waterbirds.

Learn more about our work to restore and improve breeding habitats for waterbirds here: https://www.waterfowlersnetwork.com/new-breeding-sites/.