CONA: ANALYSIS OF CURRENT STATE

Students of nature conservation technician from Nova Gorica School Center, Biotechnical School Šempeter pri Gorici, participated in the study of the biodiversity function of the water and riparian part of the Koren stream. Tasks included were limited to the upstream part to the dry Pikolud retainer and downstream part of the populated area. The students first determined the hydromorphological state of the stream, which included measuring the width and depth of the riverbed, the speed of the water course, the overgrowth of the banks with vegetation, the assessment of the organic and inorganic content of the substrate. A biological analysis of the stream was conducted to determine the presence of aquatic invertebrates and amphibians. In the upstream part, the diversity of animal species is higher, as evidenced by the presence of eight different species of amphibians, all of which are protected by the Decree on Protected Wildlife. The Laška frog, the big navel, Bombina variegata and the Rana Dalmatina are all of European importance, as they are listed in the Habitats Directive (Natura 2000). With the help of the Soča Nova Gorica Fishermen's Association and experts from Ljubljana, an electric fishing was carried out, which revealed the presence of five different species of fish. The students also caught a number of different species of butterflies and dragonflies and other insects using fishing nets. Birds were also observed and recorded. It was dominated by mallard ducks, with gray heron and other birds singing. The chemical - physical analysis of the stream included the work of students, where data on dissolved oxygen content in water, water temperature, electrical conductivity, pH, and the presence of phosphates, nitrates and nitrites were collected through various probes and interfaces. They also performed a chemical analysis of the soil and measured the noise. According to the data collected, which were computer-processed and analyzed, no significant deviations were observed, indicating good ecological status of the stream. Minor differences were found only in the individual locations of the downstream part. Through the monitoring, the students came to the conclusion that the existing habitat of the Koren stream should be maintained. If we want to preserve the diversity of the biodiversity function of the observed area, it would be reasonable to improve living conditions especially in the downstream part where the Koren creek is channeled.