Afforestation of disposal sites and land along the canals, as well as forest management, represents an integral part of the project for constructing the primary canal network. These activities have two main objectives:
- Establishing protective forest belts to safeguard the canals and associated structures from wind, waves, and erosion.
- Afforestation and forest management aimed at generating economic benefits.
The most intensive afforestation was carried out up to 1966, immediately after the excavation of the canals. Once the primary canal network was formed, a period of more intensive afforestation and timber harvesting began. However, large areas still remain unplanted, and further afforestation should be expanded in the coming years.
In our section of the primary canal network, black locust was predominantly planted, but the results have been modest.
Tourism and Recreation
Even during construction, some completed sections of the canals began to be used for sports, recreation, and tourism. After 1978, when the primary canal network was completed, the canals were increasingly used for:
- sport fishing
- motor boating
- rowing
- swimming
- hiking and excursions
Weekend settlements and several recreational centers with restaurants were built near the canals. However, many of these facilities lack water-related amenities such as competitive events or specialized sports activities.
In recent years, spending time along the canals has become increasingly popular, and further growth in recreational use is expected. The canal surroundings offer valuable opportunities not only for nature-based activities but also for developing historical, cultural, and protected areas of interest.
In our area, sport fishing, hunting, recreational visits, swimming, walking, and excursions are especially common.
Use of Hydropower Potential
The hydropower potential of the Danube–Tisa–Danube (DTD) Hydrosystem was not included in the original project plans. This was understandable given the circumstances at the time — low energy prices and high required investments. However, the energy crisis in later decades prompted reconsideration of these resources.
In the mid-1980s, preliminary analyses were carried out for constructing hydropower plants on several major hydraulic structures, including the dam near Novi Bečej. Studies showed that the hydropower potential could be utilized within the existing water regime or with minor adjustments. Nevertheless, no further steps were taken in this direction.
Organization and Personnel (1978–1995)
Directors of the water management organization “Primary Canal Network” in Novi Sad during the period 1978–1995 were:
- Ljubomir Milić, B.Sc. Eng.
- Emil Čikić, B.Sc. Eng.
- Nikola Bugarski, B.Sc. Eng.
The Novi Bečej Operations Unit was headed by Vasa Popović, civil engineer.
Technicians included:
- Radak Dušan
- Erdman Ferenc (senior)
- Kiurski Maksim
- Radin Dušanka
- Lalić Petar
- Erdman Ferenc (junior)
Administrative and office tasks were carried out by:
- Jovčić Ivan
- Oroslamoš Antal
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