This study, conducted under the Horizon Europe Restore4Life project, evaluates the economic and ecological feasibility of operating natural floodplain spawning grounds for fishery management along the Middle Tisza River, focusing on the Fokorúpuszta site. Building on previous findings from the Interreg Danube Floodplain project, it provides a detailed financial analysis, institutional recommendations, and operational guidelines. The research shows that natural reproduction at the spawning ground can be significantly more cost-effective than artificial fish stocking, even with infrequent success. While Hungarian law still mandates annual stocking, natural spawning could reduce supplemental costs. The study highlights the ecological value of floodplain habitats, which support biodiversity, flood mitigation, and local climate regulation. It recommends formalising a cooperation agreement among key stakeholders to ensure long-term, cost-efficient site operation. The findings support redirecting some fishery funds toward spawning ground management and emphasise the importance of monitoring, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptive management strategies for successful implementation and conservation outcomes.

The Fokorúpuszta fish spawning site

Source: KÖTIHESZ Report