EcoBoost!
EkoBoost! The project for inspiration and action when it comes to the environment, sustainability and ecosystem services.
The fact that we are facing major challenges regarding the environment, climate and sustainable development is not new. Studies show that climate change has a significant impact on biodiversity and ecosystems, greatly impairing the ability of ecosystems to provide natural benefits. More needs to be done and we are convinced that knowledge breeds action!
Through the project EcoBoost! We contribute to insights and increase knowledge about the environment, sustainability and ecosystem services. At the same time, we focus on ensuring that increased awareness leads to concrete actions.
Let yourself be inspired
Upcoming activities
We are constantly planning new activities. Keep an eye out here and in our newsletter!
October 6, 2026 | Water journey along Ätran
Join Leader Sjuhärad and Ätran's Water Council on an exciting and educational bus trip in Ätran's catchment area.
Learn more about water care, be inspired by implemented measures, and meet others who are engaged in our water environments.
Water is a lifeline in our landscape – for the forest, agriculture, fish, biodiversity, and of course for us humans. How can we take care of our watercourses so that they can continue to function and deliver important ecosystem services in the future?
During the day, we will visit several places where various water care measures have been implemented. We will see concrete examples, hear about experiences from the work, and discuss what opportunities exist for those who want to make their own contributions.
THE JOURNEY'S ITINERARY:
We start in Önnarp, almost as high up in Ätran as one can get. In Önnarp, Ätran and Nordsjöbäcken merge, and here is one of Ätran's largest populations of freshwater pearl mussels. Several measures have been implemented, including the removal of three irrigation ponds and habitat care measures have been taken for the benefit of the mussels. We then continue towards Strängsered and are now at the top of Jälmån, which together with Sämån forms Assman, one of the largest tributaries to Ätran. Here, a dam has been constructed to benefit biodiversity, even out flows, and bind some of the humus coming from the drained wetlands upstream. After lunch, we will head up to Ätran's main channel at Knekta mill, just north of Blidsberg. Here is an old mill that collapsed in the 90s. In addition to opening up a side channel, habitat care has also been carried out in the river, focusing mainly on fish, insects, and birds.
OUR GUIDES DURING THE DAY:
Peter Nolbrant is an experienced biologist and has worked extensively with water issues in recent years, including as project coordinator for Ätran's water council.
Johan Andersson is the action coordinator for Ätran's water council and a consultant at WaterCircle with extensive experience in water care measures and project planning.
Also joining the trip is Wanja Wallemyr, a farmer from Falköping and chair of Ätran's Water Council, as well as Katarina Berlin Thorell, project manager for Leader Sjuhärad's EkoBoost!
PRACTICAL INFORMATION:
Date: October 6
Time: Gathering at 9:30 AM at Hallgren's bus, Alängsgatan 4 Ulricehamn, we will provide coffee and rolls.
Transport: Departure by bus from Ulricehamn at 10:00 AM and onwards to the day's destinations
Lunch: We will stop for lunch during the day, Leader Sjuhärad will provide lunch
Registration no later than: September 28, max 30 participants. Register here
Cost: The trip is free of charge and is funded through Leader Sjuhärad's EkoBoost project!
Who can join? The trip is primarily aimed at landowners, but also at those who work with or are interested in water and fish care issues, wetlands, and biodiversity.
Take the opportunity to learn more, be inspired by concrete examples, and ask your questions to people with experience in water care.
If you have any questions, please contact Katarina: katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
October 24, 2026 | Theme day on sustainable food production in Sjuhärad
Rådde farm, Länghem
On October 24th, we invite you to a theme day about sustainable food production in Sjuhärad. What does sustainable food production mean for the environment, for the farmer and for the consumer? – that's what we'll talk about on this day!
Speakers include Gunnar Rundgren, author and debater, and Markus Hoffmann, LRF. Book the date now – more info and program coming soon.
If you have any questions, please contact Katarina: katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
Viewing locations in Sjuhärad
Together with committed actors and people in Sjuhärad, we are creating four display sites - places where we create and inspire how to benefit biodiversity and strengthen nature's ability to deliver ecosystem services.
Diversity pond in Melltorp
Pond becomes a haven for life in and around water
A pond is being built in Melltorp that benefits amphibians, insects and plants – and at the same time helps to retain water in the landscape. Here, a display area for life in and around water is created.
The host of the place is the landowner.
Erikstorp forest area
Small measures – big environmental benefits
In the Erikstorp forest area, biodiversity is being enhanced with, among other things, a stone wall in gabion technology, molehills and fauna depots. Here, environments are created for everything from insects to bats – in the middle of nature and close to the path.
The host for the exhibition site is Bollebygd Municipality.
Årås Estate & Gardens
Biodiversity in full bloom
At Årås Säteri och Trädgårdar, a display area is being created where meadows, flowering bulbs, willows and hollies breathe new life into the historic landscape. A new grazing area is being created – and the sheep are given a role in combating invasive species.
The venue is hosted by the Årås Kvarn Community Association.
Nyhagen's garden
Place for pollinators and small beneficial animals
In Nyhagens Trädgård, creative solutions are being created for pollinators and small animals. Here, a dryland meadow, a wintering site for amphibians and a new bee hotel are being arranged – all to show how nature can benefit both small and large areas.
The exhibition space is hosted by Sara Brenne Artwork and Garden HB.
Realize an idea!
Do you, your association or your organization, have an idea that contributes to biodiversity or benefits nature, but needs a less support to get started? Then we would like to recommend one of our micro-supports!
Search up to SEK 25,000!
Seeds of change
Do you, your association or your company have a project idea with a focus on biodiversity or ecosystem services? Through micro-support Seeds of change It is possible to apply for up to SEK 25,000 to, for example, create flower meadows, small bodies of water or insect hotels.
Micro-grants mean less administration and faster decisions – you can get started quickly! We accept applications on an ongoing basis as long as there is money left to distribute, and of course we are your sounding board during the application process! 🐝
How can we help you?
Katarina Berlin Thorell is the project manager for EkoBoost and is available for questions about the activities and opportunities offered within the project.
How can we help you make a difference?
Discover the possibilities with EkoBoost!
At EkoBoost, we offer a mix of inspiring lectures, field studies, workshops and other practical elements. The activities are aimed at entrepreneurs, public employees, community members and the general public – in short, anyone who wants to learn more and make a difference through action in their own locality.
By Seeds of change There is an opportunity to apply for funding for initiatives that benefit many, we call it public benefit. Are you curious about it? Or do you, your association or your company have an idea for something else that you think we could collaborate on? We would love to hear from you!
Katarina Berlin Thorell
Project Manager
katarina.berlin.thorell@leader-sjuharad.se
0704 75 61 94
The board's decision justification
The project will be a highlight for the focus area "ecosystem services" and fits well within the strategy's area. The project combines skills-building activities with both lectures, study visits, field studies and practical parts such as workshops. By highlighting the importance of ecosystem services, we hope to encourage a sustainable lifestyle and inspire practical efforts that contribute to conscious change. The project will have a main focus on biodiversity.
About the project
Project period
2024-2027
Project owner
Leader Sjuhärad
Project Manager
Katarina Berlin Thorell
info@leader-sjuharad.se
The project in the media
Have you read or heard about the project in the media? Please share the article or broadcast with us: info@leader-sjuharad.se.
About the financing
Granted leader support
3,335,831 SEK
Co-financing:
–
Total financing
3,335,831 SEK
In addition to the above, the project expects to contribute with non-profit commitment worth SEK 520,200.
The Leader support consists of funding from the EU, the state and the municipalities of Sjuhärad.
Incoming EU funds have been granted from:
Rural Development Fund