Nestos

The flow of the Nestos River is used by both countries (Bulgaria and Greece) for municipal water supply, irrigation and hydroelectric power production. The past estimated mean runoff of the River is 20 to 30 m³/s and the annual discharge 1,120 mio. m³. The River is the most important water resource in its region and has been subject of bilateral negotiations for many years. The famous delta is a National Park but is in danger due to pollution caused by various human activities and to large-scale hydraulic works (dams) constructed along the river. Also extensive agricultural activities and no sustainable management of water resources in both sides of the river, especially around the Delta is another threat of the area. The main land uses include park land and protected fauna/flora areas, skiing, forestry, grazing, hydro-electricity, urban and scattered industry, fish farming and tourism.