Diffuse Pollution and Ecological Risk Assessment in Ludaš Lake Special Nature Reserve and Palić Nature Park (Pannonian Basin)

Diffuse water pollution from agriculture (DWPA) is one of the major factors causing in Lakes Palić and Ludaš, two largest shallow lakes Pannonian Basin Serbia. These are protected under national international law. On basis number strictly bird species, Ludaš Lake has been classified as a wetland importance since 1977 (Ramsar site 3YU002); 2021, both were nominated potential Natura 2000 areas. Despite degree protection ecological significance area, agricultural land prevails. By process expropriation during 2019, buffer zone began to expand around lakes, which should lead reduction pollution. One goals buffer-zone development enhance restore connectivity remaining forest-steppe habitats. During process, soil was sampled record areas with highest This paper assesses environmental risk caused by phosphorus, nitrogen, accumulation heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Pb, Cr, Ni, Mn, Cd, Hg). For each metal, corresponding indices (Igeo, PI, EF, Eri, RI, Nemerow) contamination level calculated. Pollution indicate influence following order: Cd > Cu Ni Zn Pb Cr Hg. Results showed that concentrations exceeded maximal permissible concentration all examined samples, high determined. High potassium detected, could be result intensive activity. Current conservation measures this area have not provided adequate natural environment. Accordingly, existing must controlled or new, more restrictive prescribed.