The destruction of the Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River in Ukraine on 2023-06-07, allegedly bombed by Russian forces (Russia denies responsibility), caused widespread flooding and devastation. The subsequent draining of the Kakhovka reservoir revealed a surprising ecological recovery. A vast floodplain forest, known as Velykyi Luh, is rapidly regenerating, with the return of endangered sturgeon, wild boar, and other species. Billions of tree seeds have sprouted, potentially creating Ukraine's largest floodplain forest.

However, this ecological revival is overshadowed by significant environmental concerns. The drained reservoir released potentially toxic pollutants, including heavy metals, into the surrounding area, posing risks to both the ecosystem and human populations. Comprehensive biological monitoring is hampered by ongoing conflict and landmines.

Scientists are observing a "return to life," but also acknowledge a "toxic timebomb" of pollution. The Ukrainian War Environmental Consequences Work Group (UWEC) and researchers like Oleksiy Vasyliuk, Oleksandra Shumilova, and Eugene Simonov, highlight both the remarkable regeneration and the potential long-term contamination risks. The Ukrainian government's plans to rebuild the dam threaten to reverse this unexpected ecosystem recovery.

Impact Statement: The Kakhovka dam collapse presents a unique ecological paradox—a large-scale ecosystem recovery alongside severe pollution risks. The future of this significant floodplain forest hinges on Ukraine's post-war environmental and energy policies.