After organizing clean-up actions along the Ina River in Goleniów (PL) and planting trees on its banks in Sowno, the Rewilding Oder Delta (ROD) team participated in another river clean-up combined with a kayaking trip. This event happened in the framework of the European Sustainable Development Week and was initiated by ROD’s partner Łukasz Sikora, who promotes nature-based recreation through his enterprise “Kayaking on the Ina”.
Efforts to rewild rivers, recreate their natural elements, and protect floodplains are crucial for flood prevention and drought mitigation. While large-scale projects require significant funding, Rewilding Oder Delta (ROD) and the local community also organize volunteer-based initiatives to contribute to this cause.
Kayakers for the river
The clean-up occurred on Sunday, September 22, close to World Rivers Day (September 24). Over 20 kayaks, filled with volunteers from Poland and Germany, set off from Lubowo (PL). Armed with bags and grabbers, participants navigated the 15-kilometre stretch, focusing on removing hidden waste from the shoreline vegetation.
The participants set off from Lubowo (PL)
Rewilding Oder Delta
The action required coordination and teamwork, as volunteers retrieved debris, including bottles, cans, plastic canisters, and even large objects like old appliances and tires. One of the most notable finds was a cow skull, which became a highlight at the waste collection point in Rogowo.
The power of natural regeneration
At the start of the trip, participants were concerned about the poor condition of the river. “We’ve been dealing with the problem of pollution in the Ina for years. Between Stargard and Goleniów, sewage discharges severely impact the river’s health. We aim to raise awareness of this issue and work with the local community to oppose such practices,” commented ornithologist Maciej Sobieraj from the Foundation for Climate and Biodiversity.
Fortunately, further downriver near Poczernin, the water quality improved. The river’s natural self-cleaning ability became apparent, with clearer water and a noticeable reduction in waste. The rest of the trip became more recreational, though the volunteers remained diligent in their clean-up efforts.
Satisfaction and positive impressions
While most participants cleaned the river from the kayaks, others scouted the riverbanks in Sowno, where organizer Łukasz and the ROD team prepared the picnic area and the bonfire. The tired but happy participants shared their experiences, with laughter and camaraderie filling the air. Dominika, a volunteer from Szczecin, expressed her enthusiasm: “I love nature, and I’m glad I could finally join this event. It’s satisfying to help clean such a beautiful river and enjoy the day with like-minded people.”
Satisfied participants at the picnic area in Sowno
Rewilding Oder Delta
Determination toward a common goal
Artur Furdyna, hydrobiologist at ROD and coordinator of Ina Valley rewilding efforts, praised the participants: “As a member of the Society of the Friends of the River Ina and Gowienica I’ve run many clean-ups, but I’ve never seen such dedication. This shows that people care about the river and understand its importance for their quality of life.” Łukasz Sikora, the owner of the “Kayaking on the Ina” echoed these sentiments, thanking the volunteers for their commitment and expressing surprise at the size and type of waste retrieved.
Special thanks were also given to the event’s sponsor, the Sowno Bakery, who provided bread to support the volunteers.
Translation and edit: Agnieszka Soboń
Based on the article: “Dla Iny z okazji Światowego Dnia Rzek” by Magdalena Urlich