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Biodiversity
Biodiversity
This Report is prepared in the frame of the project Protection of Biodiversity of the Sava River Basin
Floodplains funded by LIFE 3rd Countries, Swiss SDC, Dutch BBI/Matra and the project partners.
The Report has been prepared in 2009 by the Biodiversity Working Group:
Kitnaes, Karina Seeberg. Orbicon A/S, Aarhus Water and Nature Resources, Denmark.
Plavac, Ivana; Posavec Vukeli, Vida; Rodi Baranovi, Petra; Trenc, Neven and Topi, Ramona. State
Institute for Nature Protection (SINP), Croatia.
Stojic, Vida; Peri, Ranko; Lazarevi, Predrag; Ki, Alen and Stojanovi, Verica. Institute for Nature
Conservation of Serbia (INCS).
Redi, Sulejman; Barudanovic, Senka; Traki, Sabina and Kulijer, Dejan. Center for Ecology and
Natural Resources (CEPRES), Bosnia and Herzegovina.
kvar, Andreja. Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation (IRSNC).
Biodiversity
Table of Content
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
A. Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River .................................................................................................................. 5
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Bosnia-Herzegovina .................................................................................. 9
1.
Raa ..................................................................................................................................................................... 9
2.
Lonari ............................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.
abari (Modria) ................................................................................................................................................ 15
4.
Modrac .............................................................................................................................................................. 18
5.
Lijee (Bosanski Brod)....................................................................................................................................... 21
6.
Patkovaa and Ukrina River (Derventa)............................................................................................................. 23
7.
Velika and Mala Tiina....................................................................................................................................... 26
8.
Donji Svilaj (Bosanski amac) ............................................................................................................................ 29
9.
Bardaa ............................................................................................................................................................. 32
10.
Srbac .................................................................................................................................................................. 35
11.
Bosanska Gradika............................................................................................................................................. 37
12.
Trnopolje and Saniani (Prijedor)....................................................................................................................... 40
13.
Sprea and Klokotnica ....................................................................................................................................... 43
14.
Plivska jezera ..................................................................................................................................................... 46
15.
Ribnjak Prnjavor ................................................................................................................................................ 49
16.
Odak - Vojskova ............................................................................................................................................... 52
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Croatia .................................................................................................... 55
17.
Sava ................................................................................................................................................................... 55
18.
Sava Hruica .................................................................................................................................................. 57
19.
Savica................................................................................................................................................................. 60
20.
Turopolje............................................................................................................................................................ 62
21.
Odransko polje ................................................................................................................................................... 66
22.
Lonjsko polje ...................................................................................................................................................... 69
23.
Sunjsko polje ...................................................................................................................................................... 74
24.
Ribnjaci Lipovljani .............................................................................................................................................. 78
25.
Ribnjaci Slobotina/Vrbovljani ........................................................................................................................... 81
26.
Pranik ............................................................................................................................................................... 84
27.
Jelas polje .......................................................................................................................................................... 86
28.
Dvorina .............................................................................................................................................................. 89
29.
Gajna ................................................................................................................................................................. 92
30.
Spavanski bazen ............................................................................................................................................... 95
31.
Sava Podsused ................................................................................................................................................ 98
32.
utica ............................................................................................................................................................... 101
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Serbia .................................................................................................... 104
33.
Veliko ratno ostrvo .......................................................................................................................................... 104
34.
Crni lug ivaa............................................................................................................................................... 107
35.
Bojinska uma ................................................................................................................................................ 111
36.
Orlaa .............................................................................................................................................................. 114
37.
Ue Drine........................................................................................................................................................ 117
38.
Obedska bara................................................................................................................................................... 121
39.
Zasavica ........................................................................................................................................................... 127
40.
Trskovaa ......................................................................................................................................................... 132
41.
Moroviko-bosutske ume ............................................................................................................................... 135
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Slovenia ................................................................................................ 140
42.
Zelenci in Ledine pod Rateami........................................................................................................................ 140
43.
Sava Bohinjka z Mostnico in Ribnico ................................................................................................................ 142
44.
Sava Dolinka od Zelencev do Hruice ............................................................................................................... 143
45.
Sava od Mavi do Save................................................................................................................................... 144
46.
Sava od Radovljice do Kranja ........................................................................................................................... 146
47.
Sava Bohinjka in Sava Dolinka ......................................................................................................................... 148
48.
Julijske Alpe ..................................................................................................................................................... 150
49.
Sava od Rade do dravne meje ...................................................................................................................... 152
B. Analysis of threats and conservation status for Natura 2000 habitat types and species ......................................................... 154
C. Evaluation of the network of sites along the Sava River .......................................................................................................... 160
D. Recommendations for an Action Plan for the network of sites ............................................................................................... 163
Biodiversity
Introduction
The Concept of Ecological Networks
The European biodiversity is largely tied to ecosystems under direct or indirect anthropogenic influence.
Though certain human activities can lead to increased biological diversity, in recent time our use of
natural resources has been strongly intensified, which causes negative impacts on species and habitat
type diversity. As a result of human activities, habitat types are becoming increasingly fragmented, wich
is reducing also the number and distribution of species, as well as the value of goods and services that
these natural resources provide.
The concept of ecological networks can be defined as a system of sites connected by an ecological as
well as physical connection. Generally speaking, ecological networks serve to achieve the goals of:
Mitigate the negative impacts of habitat fragmentation;
Enable species movements;
Establish functional connection between protected areas.
The idea of developing ecological networks received an important stimulus in 1995, when 53 European
countries decided to establish the Pan-European Ecological Network (PEEN) as one of the basic activities
within the framework of the Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy.
The concept of ecological networks in Europe became supported in 1992 by the EU Habitats Directive,
which requires the Member States to identify and designate Natura 2000 sites, which holds important
habitat types and species in order to secure their favourable conservation status. These Natura 2000
sites function as the core areas in ecological networks.
Biodiversity
The work of the BWG carried out during the project period was structured by the implementation of a
list of project activities leading to the preparation of the following Project Deliverables:
B2)
B3)
B4)
B5)
B6)
B7)
In this report, the results of this work are presented, apart from the B2, B3 and B10 deliverables, which
are subject to separate reports.
In section A of this report, the identified target Natura 2000 habitat types and species are presented,
together with a list of the 49 identified sites important for biodiversity (Deliverable B4).
The section B is divided into four subsections, one for each country, where a presentation of each site is
given, including the results of the inventory of biodiversity along the Sava River presented as two tables
with the target Natura 2000 habitat types and species mapped in the site (Deliverable B4).
Each of the site specific tables include the results of the analysis of threats and current conservation
status for the mapped target habitat types and species (Deliverable B5). In order to improve the
conservation status for each habitat type or species on site level, proposed actions are also outlined.
The conservation status for each habitat type on site level are marked as either A, B or C indicating:
A. Favourable conservation, given where the habitat type is observed to have an excellent
structure, well conserved and with excellent prospects.
B. Relatively good conservation, given where the habitat type is observed to have a structure
either a) well conserved, b) well conserved, average prospects and restoration possible, c)
partially degraded, excellent prospects and restoration possible, or d) average
structure/partially degraded, good prospects and restoration easy.
C. Reduced (unfavourable) conservation, given where the habitat type is observed to have
degraded structure and restoration needed.
The conservation status for each species on site level are marked as either A, B or C indicating:
A. Favourable conservation, given where the conditions for the species are in excellent condition,
independent of the grading of the possibility for restoration.
B. Relatively good conservation, given where the conditions for the species are either a) well
conserved or b) in average or partially degraded condition and restoration easy.
C. Reduced (unfavourable) conservation, given where the conditions for the species is observed
degraded and restoration needed.
For each site, the presentation is concluded by giving a list of concrete and site specific
recommendations for the future management and protection.
In section C of this report, the threats and conservation status of the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species are further analysed based on the site data (Deliverable B5). In section D, the network of 49 sites
is then evaluated for coherence and connectivity (Deliverable B6). And finally in section E, the
concluding recommendations for the network of sites are presented with focus on securing favourable
conservation status for the target Natura 2000 habitat types and species (Deliverable B7).
Biodiversity
A. Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River
The identified target Natura 2000 habitat types and species
In order to identify sites of importance for biodiversity along the Sava (Deliverable B4), the EU Birds and
Habitats Directives were used as the frame for agreeing on which biodiversity data to map in potential
valuable sites.
The habitat types and species listed in the Annexes of the Birds and Habitats Directives, which were
known or likely to occur along the Sava River, were identified. The resulting lists of target Natura habitat
types and species agreed between the experts of the BWG are presented in the two tables beneath.
Table A.2. The focal habitat types mapped in the sites.
Code
1530
3130
3140
3150
3260
Water courses of plain to montane levels with Ranunculion fluitantis & Callitricho-Batrachian vegetation
3270
Muddy river banks with Chenopodion rubri p.p. and Bidention p.p. vegetation
6430
6440
6450
6510
7140
7230
Alkaline fens
9160
91E0
*Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae)
91G0
Riparian mixed forests of Quercus robur, Ulmus laevis and U. minor, Fraxinus excelsior or F. angustifolia, along
great rivers (Ulmenion minoris), along great rivers
*Pannonic woods with Quercus petraea and Carpinus betulius
91L0
91F0
Reedbeds, tall sedges and vegetation of Phragmito-Magnocaricetea are here defined as a separate habitat type, since it was not possible to include the
plant communities under any existing Natura 2000 habitat type definitions. These nationally defined plant associations are valuable and representative for
the Sava River floodplains and therefore included on the list of target habitat types.
Table A.3. The focal Natura 2000 species mapped in the sites.
Groups
HD/BD Annex
Birds
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
Ardea purpurea
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
Botaurus stellaris
BD Annex I
Chlidonias hybridus
BD Annex I
Biodiversity
Groups
Plants
Amphibians
HD/BD Annex
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
Phalacrocora pygmeus
BD Annex I
BD Annex I
-
BD Annex I
Aldrovanda vesiculosa
HD Annex II
Nymphaea alba
HD Annex II
HD Annex II + IV
Triturus dobrogicus
HD Annex II
Reptiles
Emys orbicularis
HD Annex II + IV
Fish
HD Annex II
HD Annex II + V
HD Annex II
HD Annex II
HD Annex II + IV + V
Barbastella barbastella
HD Annex II
HD Annex II + IV
Miniopterus schreibersi
HD Annex II
Mammals
HD Annex II
HD Annex II
HD: Habitats Directive, BD: Birds Directive.In addition to the Annex species, a few species were identified and included in the list of target
species.
A harmonised field work methodology for mapping the target Natura 2000 habitat types and species
was then agreed between the experts of the BWG (Deliverable B2). Further, in order to unify the
understanding and national interpretation of the identified Natura 2000 habitat types, Natura 2000
habitat type interpretation sheets were elaborated and discussed in the BWG (Deliverable B3) before
any field work was carried out. The agreed methodology and the resulting Natura 2000 habitat type
interpretations are reported in separate technical project reports.
The field work was then carried out in all sites of potential biological importance along the Sava River in
all countries apart from in Slovenia, where completed Natura 2000 standard data sheets for their
proposed sites already was available.
Biodiversity
Table A.3. List of identified sites of biological importance along the Sava River
Country
No.
Site code
Site name
Area, ha
BosniaHerzegovina
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
BA00017
BA00016
BA00014
BA00012
BA00008
BA00007
BA00013
BA00010
BA00004
BA00005
BA00003
BA00001
BA00009
BA00002
BA00006
BA00011
506,36
699,35
616,17
2.752,07
925,70
1.181,96
512,91
343,23
1.340,11
270,31
455,91
1.613,12
266,00
395,88
1.221,86
321,78
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
HR2001116
HR1000002
HR2000413
HR1000003
HR2000415
HR2000416
HR2000420
HR2000421
HR2000422
HR2000423
HR2000425
HR2000426
HR2000427
HR1000006
HR2001121
HR2000465
Sava
Sava Hruice
Savica
Turopolje
Odransko polje
Lonjsko polje
Sunjsko polje
Ribnjaci Lipovljani
Ribnjaci Vrbovljani (Slobotina)
Pranik
Jelas polje
Dvorina
Gajna
Spavanski bazen (border with site 41)
Sava Podsused
utica
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
YUSER0001
YUSER0002
YUSER0003
YUSER0004
YUSER0005
YUSER0006
YUSER0007
YUSER0008
YUSER0009
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
27700
26400
26800
33500
25400
25300
21100
63700
13.422,74
12.373,35
1.758,81
79,30
22.749,32
8.498,48
51.151,37
20.329,65
1.940,47
1.352,95
57,07
10.430,94
1.333,74
565,81
42.992,47
377,92
4.698,26
180.689,90
226,00
1.203,00
584,00
1.281,00
2.593,00
19.667,00
2.335,00
380,00
22.188,00
50.457,00
112,19
455,74
337,39
3.229,39
877,91
936,54
115.551,97
2.850,94
124.352,10
Biodiversity
Fig. A.1: Site location along the Sava River
In the following four sections of this report, each of the 49 sites important for biodiversity is presented.
Biodiversity
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Bosnia-Herzegovina
1. Raa
The site is situated in the North-Eastern part of
Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the area called
Semberija. The area is characterized by a specific
hydrographics. In the outermost part of Semberija,
the estuary of the Drina River is located. Just before
it drains into the Sava River, the Drina River diffuses
and forms a special delta of several armlets, of which
some ends up as a dead-end in the plain terrain. This
is how the special wetland habitat types have been
formed (Bosanska staraa). In this area, the Drina
River makes the border toward Serbia in the East,
whereas the Sava River represents the border at the
North side of the site. The entire area is of transboundary and international importance.
A significant share of the site is covered by flooded woodlands.
The terrain is mainly plane with numerous both natural and artificial depressions aroused by gravel
extraction in the past. The geological foundation is made of recent alluvial deposits, while the soil is
mainly fluvisol of various depths of 1-3 meters, depending on intensity by which organomineral material
has deposited. Lately, this area has experienced conversion of natural habitats into road construction
and building of cottages. In this way, degradation of important biodiversity is occurring. Despite this, the
area of Bosanska Raa is still considered to contain representative wetland ecosystems.
The main biodiversity feature of the site is the occurrence of flooded woodlands, i.e. flooding alder
forests with Fraxinus excelsior, Salicion albae, Alno-Padion including poplar stands with Populus alba and
P. nigra. Where the underground water level lowers, these communities are replaced by mixed forests
of oak Quercus robur and elm Ulmus laevis, as well as by oak-hornbeam forests Carpino betuliQuercetum roboris. Along the riverbanks of the Sava and Drina rivers and their armlets, communities of
Chenopodion rubri, Bidention, Isoeto-Nanojuncetea occures, as well as patches of wet grasslands
Agropyro-Rumicion crispi.
The whole site covers a total of 10.673 ha, but the proposed site for protection covers 506,36ha. The
land cover types of the proposed site are Tidal rivers, Estuaries, Mud flats, Sand flats, Lagoons (70%),
Inland water bodies of standing and running water (5%), dry grassland (5%), Humid and mesophile
grassland (15%) and arable land (5%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 1.1: Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
91L0
5%
91F0
10 %
Proposed Actions
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
(500)
91G0
3%
6510
5%
3150
1%
3270
10 %
3260
1%
91E0
15 %
X
X
Fig. 1.1: Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Umbra krameri
Emys
orbicularis
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
x
x
Proposed Actions
10
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Alcedo atthis
Dendrocopos
medius
Ardea cinerea
Egretta alba
Proposed Actions
Planned construction
Planned construction
Planned construction and
sustainable forest management
Controlled hunting
11
Biodiversity
2. Lonari
The site of Lonari is situated on the way from
Oraje to Brko at the crossing of the roads TuzlaOraje and Lonari-Brko. Due to strong
anthropogenous impacts in the past, more than 80
% of this area has been converted into arable land
and construction sites. Wetlands occur mainly along
smaller watercourses, which are being regulated in
the given way. Therefore only a smaller part of the
site is valuable for biodiversity. This part is located
several kilometers from the cross-roads toward
Brko city downstream the Sava River.
The climax vegetation in this wetland area is made
of oak communities, whereas in its marginal section,
on pseudogley and well drained soils, peri-pannonian oak-hornbeam communities with Quercus petraea
and Carpinus betulus occur with fragments of Illyrian oak woods Erythronio-Carpinion. In still standing
water of up to 60 cm depth, neutral eutrophic communities of Magnopotamion and Ranunculion
fluitantis occur, continued by reed beds of Magnocaricion, as well as sedge Phragmition communities.
Of great importance are the hygrophilous tall herb communities (Filipendulo-Petasition), and fragments
of alluvial grasslands Cnidion dubii and Deschamsion cespitosae. Humid nutritionrich soils occurring
along the streams are inhabited by the alliances Bidention and Chenopodion rubri p.p.
A big part of the surface different crops are grown (corn, wheat, vegetables, orchards with plums, apples
and pears), as well as by cultivated meadows with clover and alfalfa and nitrophilous Dauco-Melilotion,
Aegopodion podagrarii, Arction lappae vegetation of abandoned land. Also invasive species occur, such
as Amorpha fruticosa, Echinocystis lobata and Reynoutria japonica.
The part of the site, which is considered important for biodiversity, covers a total of 699,35ha. The land
cover types for this area are Inland water bodies of standing and running water (70%), Bogs, Marshes,
Water fringed vegetation, Fens (15%), arable land (10%) and other land (5%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 2.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
91L0
5%
91G0
3%
91E0
3150
5%
Proposed Actions
12
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
habitation 400
3270
3%
6430
1%
6440
2%
6450
1%
7230
5%
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Alcedo atthis
Conservation of wetlands
Ciconia ciconia
Ardea cinerea
Planned electrification
13
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Egretta alba
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
x
Proposed Actions
Hunting (230)
Controlled hunting
Intensive conversion
Drainage
Intensive agriculture
Use of pesticides
Eutrophication
Deforestation
Communication networks
Discharges
Canalisation
Mines
Dispersed habitation.
14
Biodiversity
3. abari (Modria)
The site of abari is situated on the riverbank of the Sava River, downstreams from the estuary of the
Bosna River. The site consists of a mosaic of wetlands on the inshore belt of Sava River at Oraje, as well
as in the area of Gornji and Donji abar. But there is a big part of the abari, which is under significant
anthropogenous impacts and where today crops are grown, such as corn and orchards (plums, apples,
pears etc.). The wetlands in the site are being reduced and degraded.
The biodiversity of this site is reflected through its diversity of hygrophilous forests. The inshore belt of
Sava River is covered by alder forests Alnetum glutinosae, then forests of ash Leucojo-Fraxinetum,
communities of white and black poplar and willow-poplar communities Salici Populetum. In places
where underground water level falls deeper communities with oak and broom Genisto elataeQuercetum roboris, then Carpino betuli-Quercetum roboris occur. In direction of abari on north facing
and more emphasized slopes, oak-hornbeam communities continue. Also fragments of hygrophilous
meadows Deschampsion caespitosae and Agropyro-Rumicion crispi are found, where arable land has not
taken over. Along smaller streams, on nutrient rich soil, communities of the alliances Bidention and
Chenopodion rubric occur.
The site, which holds important biodiversity, covers 616,17ha. The land cover types are Inland water
bodies of standing and running water (20%), Bogs, Marshes, Water fringed vegetation, Fens (15%),
Humid or Mesophile grassland (20%), Broadleaved deciduous woodland (10%) and other land (35%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 3.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
91E0
5%
91G0
5%
91F0
7230
1%
3270
5%
6440
3%
6450
2%
Proposed Actions
15
Biodiversity
Fig. 3.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Dendrocopos
medius
Proposed Actions
Planned electriphication
Conserve wetlands
Intensive cultivation
Drainage
Pesticides
Hunting
Communication network
Canalisation
Natural overgrowing
Invasive species.
Biodiversity
17
Biodiversity
4. Modrac
The site encompasses the entire area around an artficial hydro-accumulation by the same name. It is
located 6 km from the city Lukavac in the Tuzla city region. The lake arose after construction of a water
gate on the Sprea River in 1964, which was built for purposes of industrial facilities in Tuzle and
ivinice. The lake is supplied by water from the Sprea River and Turija River. The length of the lake is 11
km, while its largest width amounts 1.600 meters. Maximum depth of the lake is about 20 meters.
Before the lake was created, wetland habitat types existed along the entire coastline, which have
resulted in diverse vegetation types present today. On the inshore belt, on muddy bottom, submerged
communities of the alliance Potamion occur, whereas in the coastal area, especially in its western and
northwestern part, communities with sedges Typhetum, reeds Magnocaricion, and fragments of the
alliance Phragmition occur. In the armlets, especially around the estuary of Turija, floating plant
communities (Lemnion) with Marsilea quadrifolia and Trapa natans are found. On deeper, swampy soil
fragments of the wetland communities Agropyro-Rumicion (Cnidion dubii), Deschampsietum
caespitosae, as well as the hygrophilous meadows Molinion coeruleae are present. These are continued
by mesic grassland Arrhenatherion elatioris and Festuco-Agrostion on more drained ground. For the
forest vegetation, a significant area is covered by fragments of hygrophilous alder woods and oakhornbeam communities Carpino betuli-Quercetum roboris, while moving toward more drained soil,
forests of black pine and sessile oak occur on serpentinite and eutric cambisol.
The area around Modrac Lake is very popular for production of diverse gardening and agricultural crops
resulting in intensive agriculture. Over large area occur orchards with plums, apples and cherries.
The whole site covers a total of 17 km2. The site of importance for biodiversity covers a total of 2.752,07
ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and running water (60%), Bogs, Marshes,
Water fringed vegetation, Fens (10%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (20%) and other land (10%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 4.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3150
3270
10%
6510
20 %
7230
15 %
91G0
15 %
91E0
5%
Proposed Actions
18
Biodiversity
Fig. 4.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Marsilea
quadrifolia
Crex crex
Ardea cinerea
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Consere wetlands
Conserve wetlands
Conserve wetlands
Ardeola ralloides
Egretta alba
Conserve wetlands
Eutrophication
Solid and liquid waste
Chanalisation
Industrial water after coals separation
Conversion of wetlands
Unsustainable tourism (beaches, restaurants, paths)
Communication networks
Frequent changes in water level
Introduction of fish species
Disposal.
19
Biodiversity
Recommendations for management and protection:
20
Biodiversity
5. Lijee (Bosanski Brod)
The site is situated few kilometers downstreams from Bosanski Brod towards amac city on the
riverbank of the Sava River. The entire area is transected by the road Bosanski Brod-amac. This used to
be an agricultural region, which has significantly changed over the past decades.
On the inshore belt of Sava River willow-poplar communities occur, as well as communities of aspen,
which, in some places, are continued by communities of oak, ash and elm. There are also fragments of
communities occuring in oligotrophic and mesotrophic standing water belonging to the class Isoeto
Nanojucetea and Bidentetea tripartiti. On more isolated places, where underground water level is high
and planohistosol develops, fragments of reed beds (Magnocaricion), sedges (Typhaetum) and rushes
(Phragmition) occur. Towards dry types of soil hygrophilous tall herb communities and grasslands,
Molinion coeruleae and Deschampsion caespitosae are found.
The site covers a total of 925,70ha.
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 5.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
1%
3270
3%
6440
2%
6450
1%
7230
3%
91E0
10 %
Proposed Actions
21
Biodiversity
Fig. 5.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Ardea cinerea
Nycticorax nycticorax
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Biodiversity
6. Patkovaa and Ukrina River (Derventa)
The site is situated 10 kilometers downstream from
Derventa towards Bosanski Brod. The Ukrina River is
an affluent of the Sava River, whereby most of its
flow runs through plain and hilly peri-pannonian
terrain. It springs at 120m above sea level, while its
estuary is at 96m above sea level. The length of its
flow is 53km. Due to the low velocity many armlets
were formed in the past, which today are important
habitats for wetland plants and animals. The Ukrina
River flows mainly through neogenic and quaternary
layers, whereas the alluvial lowland are more recent
deposits (gravel, sand and clay) influencing the
biodiversity composition.
On the inshore belt mostly hygrophilous alder communities Alnion glutinosae, communities of white
willow (Salicion albae), then willow and poplar (Salici-Populetum) occur, while on humid slopes oak
communities (Quercetum roboris) and oak-hornbeam forests (Querco-Carpinetum) are found. In still
standing water fragments of communities occurring in oligo-mesotrophic water with Chara (Charion,
Nitellion), and submerged vegetation types (Ranunculion fluitantis and Calitricho-Batrachion) occur.
More nutrient rich parts are inhabited by Bidention and by Dauco-Melilotion and Arction lappae. On
deeper alluvions, which are under anthropogenous impacts, communities with alochtonous species,
such as Solidago gigantea, Ambrosia artemisifolia, Echinocystis lobata etc. invade.
The site covers a total of 1.181,96 ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (60%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (10%) and Broadleaved deciduous woodland (30%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 6.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3140
1%
3260
1%
6440
1%
91E0
10 %
91G0
3%
Proposed Actions
23
Biodiversity
Fig. 6.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Ardea cinerea
Alcedo atthis
Dendrocopos
medius
Emys orbicularis
X
x
Proposed actions
Conserve wetlands
Conserve wetlands
Control collection of species
Eutrophication
Discharges
Gravel extraction
Hunting
Invasive plant species.
Biodiversity
25
Biodiversity
7. Velika and Mala Tiina
The site Velika i Mala Tiina is situated on the riverbank of the Sava River 10km downstream from
Bosanski amac. These are larger armlets of the Sava River, which still exist thanks to the constant
inflow of underground water. Velika Tiina is a horse-shoe shaped armlet, while Mala Tiina has the
form of a trapeze. These two water bodies are connected by both surface and underground water.
Around the water bodies, large arable land and settlements are located.
This site is one of the most typical examples of wetland habitat types in the Bosnian part of the Posavina
region. The biodiversity of floating emerged and submerged vegetation comes here to its full
expression. The water bodies are covered by floating vegetation that belongs to the alliances
Magnopotamion and Hydrocharition, in which plant communities with Nuphar luteum and water lily
(Nymphaea alba) prevails. The submerged vegetation is well developed in all places and characterized
by the occurrence of plant communities with Myriophyllum, Ceratophyllum etc. Along the coastline
patches of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea communities occur. On the inshore belt, a significant area is covered by
reed beds of Magnocaricetalia and Phragmitetalia. These communities tend to spread over more
shallow water due to intense eutrophication process. Smaller terrestrial areas of typical are covered by
wetland grasslands with Alopecurus pratensis. Along the large water bodies different types of
hygrophilous woods and shrubs from the alliance Salicion purpureae, willow and poplar Salicion albae,
alder Alnion glutinosae occur, as well as hygrophilous ash-alder woods from the alliance Alno-Padion,
which continue on hygrophilous oak-broom woods Genisto elatae-Quercetum roboris, where the
underground water is low. Naturally occurring eutrophication induces the development of humid
nitrophillous vegetation from the alliances Bidention and Chenopodion rubri, which corresponds with
mesic nitrophillous vegetation from the alliances Polygono-Chenopodion and Arction lappae.
The site covers a total of 512,91ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (35%), Bogs, Marshes, Water fringed vegetation, Fens (5%), Humid or Mesophile
grassland (15%), Broadleaved deciduous woodland (20%) and other land (25%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 7.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
5%
3150
35 %
6510
5%
7230
30 %
91E0
15 %
Proposed Actions
26
Biodiversity
Fig. 7.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Nymphea alba
Bombina
variegata
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Conserve wetlands
Water management
Biodiversity
28
Biodiversity
8. Donji Svilaj (Bosanski amac)
The site is situated by the road between Bosanski Brod and Bosanski amac. The Natura 2000 focal
habitat types are distributed in a mosaic structure. The most important area with valuable wetland
complex are found on the right side of the road in a natural depression where water maintains
throughout the year. Along the trail running from the main road to the wetland, illegal dumping places
were found.
Since water in the site is very shallow (50-60 cm depth), its surface is covered by floating vegetation.
Predominant are plant communities of the alliances Magnopotamion and Hydrocharition of which 80%
are communities with Marsilea quadrifolia. At the same time, oligotrophic communities prevail here
with aquatic ferns. The inshore belt is covered by different kind of communities with rushes
(Typhaetum), sedges (Phragmition) and reeds (Magnocaricetalia). In this vegetation zone, with shallow
water and muddy bottom, plant communities with Chara sp occur. On the inshore belt where the
wetland is very shallow patches of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea communities are found. In the broader area of
the wetland, small patches of hygrophilous grasslands from the alliances Deschampsion caespitosae and
Agropyro-Rumicion occur. The reed beds are continued by smaller patches of woods with willow Salicion
albae and alder Alnion glutinosae, while on semi-terrestric and terrestric soil oak to oak-hornbeam
communities are found.
The site covers a total of 343,23ha.
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 8.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3130
1%
3140
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed actions
Waste management
1%
3150
35 %
6510
1%
6450
1%
7230
5%
91G0
5%
91E0
10 %
29
Biodiversity
Fig. 8.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Marsilea
quadrifolia
eutrophication (952)
Ciconia nigra
Egretta alba
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Dendrocopos
medius
Waste
Water pollution
Disturbances in water regime
Forestry clearance
Invasive species.
Biodiversity
31
Biodiversity
9. Bardaa
Bardaa covers 3.500 ha. It is positioned on the
riverbank of the Vrbas River towards its estuary in
the Sava River 30 km North of Banja Luka. The Sava
and Vrbas rivers have had a powerful impact on the
natural features of the Bardaa wetland area. At
present, the complex of Bardaa encompasses
artificial 11 fish ponds. These lakes are supplied by
water from several lowland rivers inclduing Matura,
Stublaja and Brzaja rivers. The surface of the fish
ponds covers 700 ha. At present, the fish ponds of
Bardaa produces warm water species such as carp.
Besides the fish ponds, the site also contains 10ha of
natural occuring bogs and swamps.
In April 2007, Bardaa was designated as Ramsar
site. Bardaa contains very important habitat for
more than 100 birds. More than 180 different
animal species have been registered in the site.
The site holds high diversity of habitat types and of
flora and fauna, especially fish, amphibians, reptiles,
birds and aquatic mammals. Open water is inhabited
by floating vegetation prevailed by communities of
Magnopotamion and Hydrocharition with species
like Nuphar luteum, Trapa natans and Nymphaea
alba. In isolated armlets, these communities are
continued by floating vegetation from the alliance
Lemnion. In some parts, patches with very rare plant species Hydrocharis morsus ranae, as well as of
community with Salvinia natans and Marsilea quadrifolia are found. The Bardaa region is one of the
most famous finding places of Marsilea quadrifolia.
Since the water is relatively warm, the natural eutrophication results in the occurence of typical
submerged communities with Myriophyllum, Ceratophyllum, Hippuris etc. On the inshore belt and in
shallow water, large reed beds of Magnocaricetalia and Phragmitetalia occur, which encompass sedge
communities with rare species, such as Butomus umbellatus, Sagittaria sagitifolia, Rumex
hydrolapathum, Iris pseudacorus etc. On the inshore belt, also Isoeto-Nanojunceteta communities are
found, which on nutrient rich soil is continued by hygrophilous communities of Bidention and
Chenopodion muralis. Surrounding the fish ponds, significant habitat types of humid nutricient rich
grasslands of Agropyro-Rumicion and Cnidion dubii with the species Althea officinalis, Pulicaria
officinalis, P. disenterica, Trifolium fragiferum, Potentilla anserina, Mentha pulegium, Teucrium botrys.
In well preserved places wetland meadows of Deschampsion are found.
The entire wetland area is covered by hygrophilous communities with purpule willow Salicion
purpureae, willow and poplar Salicion albae and alder Alnion glutinosae. Toward the Sava river these
communities are replaced by flooding communities of ash and snowdrop Leucojo-Fraxinetum. On the
pseudogley soil, hygrophilous woods of oak and broom Genisto elatae-Quercetum roboris occur. In the
direction of Lijeve polje, oak-hornbeam woods Carpino betuli-Quercetum roboris occur.
The site covers a total of 3.500ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and running
water (70%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (15%), Broadleaved deciduous woodland (10%) and arable
land (5%).
32
Biodiversity
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management for
protecting the biodiversity. But the site is designated as a Ramsar site under the Ramsar Convention.
The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 9.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3130
10 %
3150
20 %
6510
2%
6430
10 %
6450
5%
7230
25 %
9160
15 %
91F0
10 %
91E0
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
x
x
Proposed Actions
33
Biodiversity
Table 9.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Marsilea
quadrifolia
Crex crex
Eutrophication (952)
Ciconia
ciconia
Ardea
cinerea
Ardeola
ralloides
Egretta alba
Plan construction
Conserve wetlands, Sustainable
forest management
Conserve wetlands
Conserve wetlands
34
Biodiversity
10. Srbac
This site is situated on the riverbank of the Vrbas River downstream from Razboj. It includes the area
encircled by the Vrbas and Sava rivers. The largest share of the area is arable land, orchards and
settlements. The site is located on alluvion, deep fluvisol, pseudogley and ilimerised types of soil.
Since the largest proportion of the area makes the estuary of the Vrbas River, oligotrophic and
mesotrophic water communities occur of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea, continued by vegetation of nutrient rich
humid habitat types of Bidention and Chenopodion rubri. Only small areas are covered by humid
grasslands of Agropyro-Rumicion, Agrostion albae. Patches of lowland mowed meadows corresponds to
Alopecurus pratensis dominated plant communities. The most important features of the site is the
flooded hygrophilous forest habitat types with willow and poplar Salicion albae, alder Alnion glutinosae,
ash and snowdrop Leucojo-Fraxinetum, plus Salicion purpureae. Where more drained land, forests of
Ulmus laevis and Ulmus minor, Fraxinus angustifolia are found, as well as common oak Quercus robur.
At present, a significant area along the riverbank are covered by the invasive species Amorpha fruticosa
and Echinocystis lobata.
The site covers a total of 270,31ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (30%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (10%) and Broadleaved deciduous woodland (60%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 10.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
2%
3270
10 %
6510
3%
91E0
10 %
91F0
10 %
Proposed Actions
35
Biodiversity
Fig. 10.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Ardea cinerea
Triturus
dobrogicus
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
x
x
Proposed Actions
Conserve wetlands
Water management
Eutrophication
Invasive species
Gravel extraction
Discharges
Pesticides.
Biodiversity
11. Bosanska Gradika
The site is situated several kilometers downstream from Bosanska Gradika at the riverbank of the Sava
River, where the Rijeka makes a huge meander. It extends over alluvial deposits and different types of
hydromorphous soil. The site holds typical lowland landscapes under strong influence of continental
climate. Due to severe anthropogenous impacts, a major proportion of the area has undergone
conversion from natural habitat types into agriculture or construction sites. However, the remaining
natural habitats on the inshore belt play a significant role in the landscape of Bosnian part of the
Posavina region.
On the inshore belt of the Sava River, where the water level oscillates over the year, communities of
Isoeto-Nanojucetea are found, which are continued by nitrophilous plant communities of Bidention
tripartiti and Chenopodion rubri. Only a small area holds fragments of reedbeds and sedges. The most
prominent features of the site are provided by different kind of hygrophilous communities of willow and
poplar forests (alliances Salicion albae), then alder (alliance Alnion glutinosae), ash and snowdrop
(association Leucojo-Fraxinetum), mixed forests of oak and elm (Ulmus laevis and U. minor) which on
the better drained soil are replaced by oak-broom communities of Genisto elatae-Quercetum roboris
and hornbeam-oak communities of Carpino betuli- Quercetum roboris.
The site covers a total of 455,91ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (25%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (15%), Broadleaved deciduous woodland (50%) and
arable land (10%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 11.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
3270
6510
3%
91E0
91F0
10 %
Proposed Actions
37
Biodiversity
Fig. 11.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Ciconia ciconia
Dendrocopos
medius
Ciconia nigra
Ardea cinerea
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
forestry clearance(164),
pollution (700), hunting (230)
Gravel extraction
Inadequate waste disposal
Forest clearance
Hunting
Invasive species.
Biodiversity
39
Biodiversity
12. Trnopolje and Saniani (Prijedor)
The site encompasses the wetland area of
Prijedorsko polje in which a fishpond for warmwater fish species was built. The fishpond is located
around the lower flow of the Gomjenica River 10 km
southeast from Prijedor. Today, this fish pond
complex is suitable for the production of warmwater fish species, such as carp, perch and pike due
to its water quality and general ecological condition.
The main fish pond is built on parapodzolic soil. This
large complex is divided into 34 ponds. The annual
fish production amounts 2000 tons.
Apart from water bodies, the site holds an important
area covered by forests, meadows and pastures,
which encompasses a hunting ground for deer, wild
duck, rabbit, pheasant etc covering 6,000 ha.
The ponds of Saniani provide shelter for many both
hydrophilous and hygrophilous communities.
Especially the coastal belt is inhabited by floating
vegetation of Magnopotamion and Hydrocharition.
Special significance comes to the oligodominant
communities with Nympoides peltata, which in its
flowering stage, with their expressive yellow flowers
give specific features to the entire landscape. In the
coastal belt, on the muddy bottom and with shallow
water, communities of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea occur.
In the coastal zone in the northern and south-eastern part of the lake, various communities of
Magnocaricion and Phragmition are found. Due to intensive natural eutrophication along the Gomjenica
River, Bidention tripartiti and Chenopodion rubric communities occur, which in some places alternate
with communities of high herbaceous wetland vegetation of Filipendulo-Petasition.
Directly on the reed beds follow hygrophilous shrubs from the alliance Salicion purpureae, then white
willow (Salicion alba), black alder (Alnion glutinosae), and fragments of very well-preserved oak forests
Genisto elatae-Quercetum roboris and Carpino betuli-Quercetum roboris, which are continued by the
strip of oak-hornbeam woods of peripannonian character.
The site covers a total of 1.613,12 ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (65%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (10%) and Broadleaved deciduous woodland (25%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 12.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3130
3%
3150
20 %
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
x
Proposed Actions
40
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3270
10%
6510
1%
7230
10 %
9160
15 %
91E0
10 %
91G0
5%
Proposed Actions
41
Biodiversity
Table 12.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Marsilea
quadrifolia
modification of hydrographic
functioning (850), management of
aquatic and bank veg. for drainage
(811)
general forestry management
(160), dykes, embankments (870)
removal of hedges and copses
(151), fish aquaculture (200)
Castor fiber
Ardea
cinerea
Ardeola
ralloides
Egretta alba
42
Biodiversity
13. Sprea and Klokotnica
These two small sites are found along the Sprea River near Graanica and lower Brijesnica. The Sprea
River is a tributary to the Bosna River and its mouth is located near Doboj city. This river is 138 km long
and springs in the area of ekovii and flows westwards passing through the alluvial plateau of Spreko
field. The most important tributaries are Gribaja, Oskova, Gostelja, Jala, Sokolua and Brijesnica. The
riverbasin covers 3000km2. Since the Sprea River runs through industrial and power producing zone,
the water quality varies highly.
Along the shore of the Sprea Tiver, hygrophilous vegetation dominated by alder Alnion glutinosae,
white and brittle willow Salicion alba-fragilis and the willow and poplar Salici-Populetum occur, as well
as purple willow Salicion purpureae. On the better drained soil, oak communities Quercion roboripetreae, and oak-hornbeam communities including Erythronio-Carpinion continue. On steeper slopes,
fragments of alkaline fens are found, then hydrophilous tall herbaceous plants and hygrophilous
grasslands of Deschampsion caespitosae, Alopecurion pratensis and Agropyro-Rumicion. In the coastal
belt on the muddy bottom, fragments of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea exist, while in the armlets with standing
water, fragments of communities with Chara sp. along with fragments of eutrophic floating vegetation
of Magnopotamion are found. In the faster flowing water fragments of Ranunculion fluitantis, and on
nutricient rich riverbanks communities of Bidention tripartite are found. On terrestrial parts, fragments
of mesophilous meadows of Arrhenatherion exist. Arable land are also found in the sites.
The site covers a total of 266,00ha.
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 13.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
1%
3140
1%
3150
2%
3260
1%
3270
5%
6450
2%
6510
2%
7230
2%
91E0
5%
Proposed Actions
modification of hydrographic
functioning (850), water pollution
(701), use of pesticides (110),
canallisation (830)
eutrophication (952), water pollution
(701), use of pesticides (110),
canallisation (830)
silting up (910), modifing structures of
inland water courses (852), water
pollution (701), use of pesticides
(110), canallisation (830)
modification of hydrographic
functioning (850), water pollution
(701), use of pesticides (110),
canallisation (830)
removal of sediments (820), water
pollution (701), use of pesticides
(110), canallisation (830)
flooding (840), invasion by a species
(954), use of pesticides (110),
canallisation (830)
mowing/cutting (102), invasion by a
species (954), use of pesticides (110),
canallisation (830)
water pollution (701), invasion by a
species (954)
silting up (910), forestry clearance
(164), invasion by a species (954), use
43
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
91G0
5%
91L0
2%
Proposed Actions
of pesticides (110)
Population
size
Proposed Actions
Emys
orbicularis
Alcedo atthis
Ardea cinerea
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Ciconia
ciconia
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Waste management
44
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
Forestry clearance
Taking of fauna
Silting up
Invasion by a species
Modification of hydrographic functioning
Use of pesticides
Water pollution
Canallisation
Modifing structures of inland water courses
Mowing/ cutting.
45
Biodiversity
14. Plivska jezera
The site includes the Great and the Small Plivska
Lakes and is a natural aquatic complexes formed in
the lower water course of the Pliva River, which is a
tributary of the Vrbas River. The Plivska Lakes are
located in relatively deep valley of the Pliva River,
between lakes in the west and Jajce city in the east.
The Great Lake is positioned at altitude of about
424m, with a total length of 3,3km and average
width of 400 m. Maximum depth of the lake is 36 m.
The Small Lake is to be found in the continuation of
the Great Lake and is 950 m long, while its average
width is about 200 m. The maximum depth of the
Small lake is 25 m. The Plivska Lakes were formed
thanks to barriers made of travertine during its long
geological history, which includes different both
physico-chemical and biological factors. In the past,
the Lake was significantly disturbed by drainage of
water for needs of hydro-accumulation Jajce, as well
as by construction of artificial barriers that have
modified the natural processes of travertine
formation.
The water quality in Pliva River, as well as in Plivska
lakes, is still very good. They hold habitats of high
biodiversity level. The water in the lakes is extremely
rich in ichthyofauna (grayling, Hucho hucho). In
addition to the rich ichthyofauna, there are also
many amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
Vegetation biodiversity is very complex. In the
coastal belt due to unavoidable process of
eutrophication, occurs floating vegetation of
Magnopotamion, which is continuation of reed beds
of Magnocaricion and Phragmition australis. The
most unique features of the area are the occurrence
of alkaline fens of Caricetalia davallianae on
planohistosol soil. This is a shelter for a large number
of relict species and communities (Menianthes trifoliata, Ranunculus lingua, Iris pseudacorus, Carex
davalliana, C. Panicea, Eriophorum latifolium and others). On the coastal belt, especially along the Small
Lake fragments of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea communities occur, while in the armlets communities from
benthic vegetation type with Chara sp. are developed. In the area where the river spreads fragments of
Ranunculion fluitantis communities occur.
In areas, nitrophilous communities of Bidention and Chenopodion rubric are prevailing, whereby between hygrophilous meadows and forest communities - communities of Filipendulo-Petasition occur,
which continue to hygrophilous grasslands from the allainces Agropyro-Rumicion, Deschampsion
caespitosae, Molinion coeruleae. In the upper part of the Great Plivsko Lake, communities of transitional
fens are developed. In the coastal zone hygrophilous forests and willow shrubs of Salicion purpureae
and Salicion cinereae, then Salicion albae and Alnion glutinosae occur. Also, oak-hornbeam forests
Querco-Carpinetum betuli occur in higher positions and are on northern facing slopes replaced by beech
forests, while on southern slopes thermophilous oak communities of Quercetalia pubescentis occurs.
46
Biodiversity
The site covers a total of 395,88ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (60%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (20%) and Broadleaved deciduous woodland (20%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 14.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3130
3140
3150
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
700 (Pollution)
Regulate sewage
700 (Pollution)
Regulate sewage
952 (eutrophication)
3260
952 (eutrophication)
3270
840 flooding
6430
Waste management
6440
120 (fertilization)
6450
6510
7230
7140
91E0
91G0
47
Biodiversity
Table 14.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Hippuris
vulgaris
Alcedo atthis
Regulate sewage
Ardea cinerea
Waste
Canallisation
Tourism
Unsustainable forestry
Eutrophication
Water taking with energetic and industrial purposes
Infrastructure.
48
Biodiversity
15. Ribnjak Prnjavor
The site is situated at the road Derventa-Prnjavor,
near trpci. In the past, large fish ponds were
established on this terrain. These fish ponds are
composed of several hydrologic and producing units.
Good quality water for the fish ponds comes from
different tributaries of the Ukrina River. For
decades, warm-water fish species, such as carp are
produced. Lately, there have emerged various
oscillations in both production and economic plan
due to property transition.
The open water of the fish pond and the numerous
armlets represent today habitats for both
submerged
and
floating
vegetation
of
Magnopotamion and Hydrocharition. Especially outstanding are the fragments of well preserved
communities of Nymphaeion albae in the upper ponds with Nuphar luteum.
In the coastal belt on muddy soil, fragments of communities of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea exist along standing
water. This vegetation is continued by discontinuous zone of reed beds. On boggy soil, communities of
Magnocaricetalia and Phragmitetalia are developed. Due to different eutrophication processes,
nitrophilous hydric vegetation of Chenopodion rubri and Bidention occur, which in shadowed places is
continued by hydrophilous tall herb communities of Filipendulo-Petasition. In the coastal belt
communities of hydrophilous forests and shruberies occur, such as purple willow Salicion purpureae,
white willow Salicion albae, alder Alnion glutinosae and oak-broom communities continued by oakhornbeam communities. On better drained soil, sessile oak-hornbeam communities prevail. There is a
large area covered by crops of corn, wheat etc.
The site covers a total of 1.221,86 ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (55%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (10%), Broadleaved deciduous woodland (20%) and
other land (15%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 15.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
1%
3150
10 %
3270
5%
6430
5%
7230
15 %
Proposed Actions
49
Biodiversity
management
91E0
15 %
9160
15 %
Population Conservation
size
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Marsilea
quadrifolia
Nymphea alba
Crex crex
Sustainable agriculture,
Control fertilizers,
Sustainable water
management, Conserve
wetland biodiversity
Sustainable agriculture,
Control fertilizers,
Sustainable water
management, Conserve
wetland biodiversity
Sustainable hunting
Aythya nyroca
230 (Hunting)
Sustainable hunting
Ardea cynerea
Ardea
ralloides
50
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
Eutrophication
Discharges
Invasive species
Uncontrolled exploitation of fish resources
Overhunting
Removal of floating and submerged vegetation.
51
Biodiversity
16. Odak - Vojskova
The site Vojskova is situated at the Bosna River
mouth on the riverbank of the Sava River. The
backbone of the site makes the armlet of the Bosna
River, which meanders north connecting physically
with the Sava River. In geological respect, this is
alluvial terrain with deep hydromorphous soils. This
armlet is being supplied by underground water both
from Sava and Bosna rivers, as well as by its own
springs. At the and of this armlet, a dam towards the
Sava River regulates the water level. During seasons
with high water in the Sava River, the dam serves as
retention. In warmer periods of the year, when
water level drops, the armlet gets features of natural
occuring habitat types and represents a shelter for numerous species. Among local population this kind
of habitats are known as staraa, and this is one of the largest and best preserved locations currently
in the Bosanska Posavina region.
The territory of Vojskova is situated in the zone of agricultural land with intensive production. Main
biodiversity of Vojskova consists of well preserved communities of eutrophic lakes of the alliances
Magnopotamion and Hydrocharition, in which the most significant are plant communities with Nuphar
luteum and Nymphaea alba, then floating vegetation with ferns Salvinia natans and Marsilea
quadrifolia, as well as the communities from the alliance Lemnion minoris. Around the entire aquatic
area occurs the zone with reed beds from the orders Magnocaricetalia and Phragmitetalia. On muddy
inshore terrain, communities of Isoeto-Nanojuncetea, which are being continued by nitrophilous
vegetation from the alliance Bidention, e.g. Chenopodion rubri. Also smaller areas of the coastal belt
correspond with hygrophilous grasslands from the alliance Agropyro- Rumicion. Terrestrial ecosystems,
along the coastline of Staraa, different hygrophilous shrub communities of Salicion purpureae, Salicion
albae, then white and black poplar of Populion, alder (Alnion glutinosae), and ash and elm communities
have developed. These communities are replaced by hygrophilous oak woods Genisto elatae-Quercetum
roboris. For the ecoton communities, these are mainly peripannonian natural fences with following
species: Euonymus europaeus, Prunus spinosa, Cornus sanguinea etc.
The site covers a total of 321,78ha. The land cover types are Inland water bodies of standing and
running water (40%), Humid or Mesophile grassland (5%) and arable land (55%).
The site is not protected under national legislation. The site is not under active management and there
is no management plan for protecting the biodiversity. The ownership of the site is mixed.
Table 16.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3150
5%
3270
<5%
6510
10 %
7230
15 %
Proposed Actions
52
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
91E0
20 %
Fig. 16.1: Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Ciconia
ciconia
Ciconia nigra
Crex crex
Ardea cinerea
Bombina
variegata
Proposed Actions
53
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
Remove waste
Stop mowing in wetland habitat types.
Control utilisation of natural resources
Manage forests sustainably and introduce close-to-nature forestry
Apply sustainable waste management and prohibit illegal waste disposal
Apply sustainable fishery and aquaculture
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and regulate hydrological regime to
natural conditions
Apply ecosystem approach in the management and physical planning
Reintroduce traditional land use and agricultural practises.
Establish protected area under appropriate national legislation.
Prepare management plan for the protected area and action plan for biodiversity protection.
54
Biodiversity
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Croatia
17. Sava
This site involves the whole Sava River on Croatian
territory. The length of Sava River in Croatia is 510
km. The river section is managed by Croatian
Waters.
The site covers a total area of 12.373,35 ha. The site
has been included in the Croatian ecological
network. There is no active nature management for
the river stretch.
Coverage
in site
3150
91E0
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
0.03
Proposed Actions
Fig. 17.1. Site map of the Sava River stretch for Croatia.
55
Biodiversity
Table 17.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Castor fiber
Eudontomyzon
spp.
Leuciscus
souffia
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
30-45% of
national
population
Proposed Actions
Drainage
Management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage
Management of water levels
Canalisation
Dykes, embankments, artificial beaches, general
Disposal of industrial waste
Pollution
Invasion by a species.
Develop River Basin Management plan with focus on the Sava river as ecological network site
with its key species
Ensure Management plan implementation
Promote and educate local people on the high biodiversity value of the Sava River.
Present protection status that the river is not categorised as a protected area, but the site is
included in the Croatian ecological network management as ecological network site should be
effective enough to ensure its preservation and favourable conservation status.
56
Biodiversity
18. Sava Hruica
The site alongside the Sava River near Hruica is
an important place for bird species connected to
river habitats. The site is located where the Sava
River slows down in velosity and changes into a
lowland river, with precipitating sediment. The
gravel banks and islands, both bare and
overgrown, have developed and naturally steep
riversides with willow and poplar are well
conserved. This is an area rich in water species,
which makes it a good feeding area for birds and
endangered species such as Sterna albifrons and
Sterna hirundo.
The site is extremely endangered, especially by the
planned construction of a hydro power plant, occasional gravel extraction, water pollution due to
release of waste water from Zagreb city and recreational activities.
The site covers a total area of 1.758,82 ha. The main land use types are water bodies and water flows
(21.23%); wetlands (3.73%); broadleaved forest of willow, poplar, ash, alder and pedunculate oak
(16.24%); arable land with large natural vegetation areas (40.1%); intensively farmed land (11.77%);
active rural areas/urbanized rural areas (5.83%); city housing area (0.33%) and places for mineral
exploitation (0.76%).
One part of the site covering 342.54 ha has been marked for protection as a Special Ornithological
Reserve according to the Croatian protection system. The whole site is included in the Croatian National
ecological network as an important bird area and is planned designated as a Natura 2000 site. There is
no active management.
Table 18.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
91E0
10,09
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
91F0
6,15
Proposed Actions
57
Biodiversity
Fig. 18.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Sterna
hirundo
50-80p
(breed)
Sterna
albifrons
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
20p (breed)
Alcedo
atthis
1-2p
(resident)
Ardeola
ralloides
P (stage): R
Nycticorax
nycticorax
P (stage): C
Ciconia
nigra
1-2i
(breeding)*
58
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Aythya
nyroca
P (stage): R
Haliaeetus
albicilla
1-2i
(resident)
Lanius
collurio
Ficedula
albicollis
50-100p
(breed)
P (stage)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
820 (Removal of sediments
(mud...), 830 (Canalization),
701 water pollution
Castor fiber
nonsignificant
Nonsignificant
Lutra lutra
Develop River Basin Management plan with special focus on Sava-Hruica River as a site
included in the Croatian ecological network site with its key species or develop separate
Management plan for the site, including measures for stopping the river canalization, renewing
wetland areas alongside river, and ensuring purification of city waste waters
Capacity build County public institutions in management of protected areas to ensure
Management plan implementation
Educate local people on biodiversity value of the area and its protected species and habitats.
Present protection status of the site is that protection is planned for part of the site as a special
ornithological reserve. The whole site is included in the Croatian ecological network as an
important bird area. Management as ecological network site should be effective enough to
ensure its preservation and favourable conservation status.
59
Biodiversity
19. Savica
The Savica site represents a complex of wetland
habitat types on the left riverside of Sava in the
Zagreb city area. This area is important for nesting,
feeding and wintering of many bird species. Also,
old trees of willows and poplars are of great value
as hollow trees for bats and birds. Besides birds,
the Savica site is an area important for other
protected species such as: Lutra lutra (otter), Emys
orbicularis (pond turtle) and the fish species Aspius
aspius and Cobitis elongatoides. Also, there are
favourable conditions for re-introducing the
regionally extinct Natura 2000 fish species Umbra
krameri.
The armlet Savica has been separated from the Sava River in 1965, where the dyke was built. Today, the
Savica receives water from the outlets of the nearby thermal power plant, which has become the
precondition of its survival. The water discharged from the power plant into the Savica is mixed with
mechanically purified and neutralized water, which is mildly heated. Therefore the water in the Savica
(and also in the Savica site) is never completely frozen so birds can find open water areas also during the
winter period.
The site covers a total area of 79.31 ha. The land use types are water bodies (40%), arable land with
large natural vegetation areas (14.53%); public green surfaces (19.53%); city/housing areas (26.95%).
The invasive species are: Ameiurus melas, Lepomis gibbosus, Carassius gibelio, Gambusia aphinis and
Myocastor coypus.
The armlet Savica is the only armlet left from the Slovenia border to the place Veleevac in Croatia all
the others are buried, meliorated or dried out. Being a part of the city, the area is endangered by
development of the physical and municipality plans and expansion of the city territory.
In 2006, the Savica site was pronounced as an Ornithological Reserve according to Croatian nature
protection scheme. Also, it is part of the Croatian ecological network. The sport-fishing society
Peenica is supervising and taking care of the area. The Croatian Ornithological Society is monitoring
the birds in this area. The site is managed by the Croatian Public Institution for Protected Nature Values,
which is obliged to develop a management plan for the site.
The Natura 2000 focal habitat types: There are no Natura 2000 habitat types in this site.
Table 19.1. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Lanius collurio
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Sterna hirundo
Alcedo atthis
Halliaetus
albicilla
Saxicola rubetra
Proposed Actions
P (breed):R
P (stage):C
V* (resident)
P (stage): R
10p
(breeding)
1p* (resident)
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
60
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Botaurus
stellaris
Ardea cinerea
1-3i
(wintering)
C* (resident)
Ardeola ralloides
P (stage): V
Aythya nyroca
R (wintering)
Ciconia ciconia
P (stage): V
Egretta alba
P (stage): R
Phalacrocorax
pygmeus
Lutra lutra
P (stage): R
Castor fiber
Emys orbicularis
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Leisure fishing
Other urbanisation, industrial and similar activities
Pollution.
Develop River Basin Management plan with special focus on Savica area as national ecological
network site with its key species
Capacity build County public institutions for management of protected areas to ensure
Management plan implementation
Promote site and educate local people on the high biodiversity value of this area
Conserve habitat types and species through an environmental impact assessment of projects
and plans prior to granting permissions.
Present protection status of the site is that in 2006 preventive protection came into force and
the site is part of the Croatian ecological network. In 2009, background document was prepared
for the protection of Savica in the category as ornithological reserve as a part of the Croatian
ecological network.
61
Biodiversity
20. Turopolje
This is a lowland site between the rivers Odra and
Sava. A considerable part of the area is the large
wet meadows, important for nesting of Crex crex,
i.e. 10.7 % of the Croatian population of this
species is nesting in the site. The Quercus robur
forests are developed on the north riverside of the
river Odra, and are very important for
reproduction of Haliaeetus albicilla (white-tailed
eagle). The rest of the habitat types are mosaic
landscapes and willow/poplar forest along Sava.
The site is characterised by well preserved large
wet (periodically flooded) pastures with cattle
herds and native local breeds including the
Croatian Posavian horse and Turopolje pig.
The site covers a total area of 22.749.34 ha. The land use types are city areas (2.43%); intensively
farmed land (10.16%); pastures and natural grasslands (5.08%); pastures and natural grasslands
combined with broadleaved forest (16.45%); broadleaved forest (42.41%); arable land with large natural
vegetation areas (23.33%); water bodies and water flows (0.09%) and wetlands (0.04%).
The site is currently not exposed to larger menaces. Main threats are the change of water level in wet
forests due to drainage, intensive forest management, changes in traditional ways of farming, water
canalling and enhanced or illegal hunting.
One part of the site is protected as an Important Landscape according to Croatian nature protection
scheme. The whole site forms part of the Croatian ecological network and defined as an internationally
important bird area to be included in the Natura 2000 network. The site is managed by the Sisakomoslavaka and Zagrebaka Counties Public Institutions for Protected Nature Values.
Table 20.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
6440
4.03
6510
0.64
91F0
30.66
9160
11.16
91E0
0.45
62
Biodiversity
Fig. 20.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Haliaeetus
albicilla
2p
(resident)
Crex crex
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
Ficedula
albicollis
Ciconia nigra
30-40p
(breed)
1500-4000p
(breed)
3-4p (breed)
Dendrocopos
medius
X
th
th
400-500p
(resident)
Alcedo atthis
2-3p (breed)
Lanius minor
2-5p (breed)
Lanius collurio
3000-4000p
(breed)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
Ardea cinerea
P (stage): R
63
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Saxicola
rubetra
Aquila
pomarina
3000-4000p
(breed)
1-2p
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Lutra lutra
P (stage): R
P (resident)
Castor fiber
8 fam
(resident)
Myotis
bechsteini
Rhinolophus
ferrumequinum
Miniopterus
94i (breed)
schreibersi
Bombina
P (resident)
bombina
Proposed Actions
Bombina
variegata
P (resident)
Emys
orbicularis
P (resident)
810 (Drainage)
Triturus
dobrogicus
P (resident)
Marsilea
quadrifolia
Use of pesticides
Drainage
Management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage
Canalization
Dykes, embankments, artificial beaches
64
Biodiversity
Integrate water management with nature protection needs with focus on securing natural water
regime
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and harmonise with nature protection needs
Develop management plan with special focus on Turopolje as a site in the Croatian ecological
network site with key species and habitat types
Capacity build County public institutions in managing protected areas and ecological network
Ensure management plan implementation
Promote and educate local people on the high biodiversity value of this area as well as on the
importance of extensive livestock farming
Secure financial support for extensive (traditional) agriculture
Regulate hunting and prevent illegal hunting
Present protection status is that one part of the site is protected in the category as important
landscape. The whole site is a part of the Croatian ecological network as an important bird area.
Management of this site by County public institution and appropriate assessment of projects
and plans should ensure maintenance of good conservation status of species and habitats.
65
Biodiversity
21. Odransko polje
This site contains importnat grassland habitat
types and spacious Common oak forests. Together
with the wet grasslands and the Odra River, the
oak forests are very important habitats for some of
Europes endangered bird species like Haliaeetus
albicilla and Crex crex. The Odra River is the source
of water for the floodplain pastures and for the
cattle.
Odransko polje is also a valuable area for cattlebreeding because of its many pastures. There are
still well preserved extensive grasslands and the
local inhabitants have an interest in maintaining
the extensive livestock farming. Through livestock
farming they will conserve the native breeds, like the Croatian Posavian horse of which almost 70% of
the population is held in this area and the Turopolje pig. Pigs are held in the open throughout the year.
They are maintaining the grassland vegetation and preventing succession of pasture. Extensive livestock
farming is one of the most important measures in biodiversity and landscape conservation at this site.
Odransko polje represents a large part of the retention flood defence system of the Middle Posavina
area. In European context, this retention area is a positive example for flood protection. This is a flood
protection area important not only for Croatia, but also for Slovenia and Bosnia. Some of the protected
species found are Fritillaria meleagris, many of the Orchid sp., Marsilea quadrifolia, 12 species of
amphibian, 7 reptile species, 38 breeding bird species and 31 mammal species.
The site covers a total area of 9.401,90 ha. The land use types are pastures and natural wet grasslands
(26.42%); broadleaved forest (60.55%); arable land with natural vegetation areas (11.87%) and
intensively farmed land (1.17%).
The invasive species is Amorpha fruticosa.
The Odransko polje site is protected as an Important Landscape according to Croatian nature protection
scheme. Odransko polje site is included in the Croatian Ecological Network. The County Public Institution
for Protected Nature Values is managing this site.
Table 21.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
6440
10.48
6510
1.7
9160
11.81
91E0
0.18
91F0
12.8
66
Biodiversity
Fig. 21.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Crex crex
30-40p
(resident)
>2p (breed)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
-
2-3i*
Alcedo atthis
2-3p
Ficedula
albicollis
1500-4000p
Lanius collurio
3000-4000p
Lanius minor
2-5p
Aquila
pomarina
1-2i*
(breeding)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
141 (abandonment of pastoral
systems),
160 (General Forestry
management)
Saxicola rubetra
3000-4000p
Ciconia ciconia
C (breeding)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
Ciconia nigra
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
141(abandonment of pastoral
systems)
67
Biodiversity
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Lutra lutra
P (stage): C
Castor fiber
8 fam
(resident)
Rhinolophus
ferrumequinum
Emys orbicularis
Marsilea
quadrifolia
810 (Drainage)
Use of pesticides
Abandonment of pastoral systems
General Forestry management
Removal of dead and dying trees
Hunting
canalization
Dykes, embankments, artificial beaches, general
Management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage
Drainage
Management of water levels.
Develop Management plan and prepare/adopt Ordinance order with special focus on including
the site in the Croatian ecological network
Ensure Management plan implementation
Entrust management to the owners (or lease holders) though a contract regulating mutual rights
and liabilities as prescribed in Croatian Nature Protection Act
Manage forests sustainably according to FSC forest management principles and criteria
Monitor populations of strictly protected species especially breeding bird species
Secure non-hunting untill mid September. Since quail and Crex crex share same habitat, quail
hunting is endangering the Crex crex
Activate mowing of abandoned grassland habitat types
Apply extensive livestock farming, and ensure incentives
Prevent expansion and intensification of agriculture in the protected area
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and avoid drainage of wetlands with
focus on maintaining existing water regime and leave the site as a natural retention area (and
prevent all of the interventions that could endanger important habitats and species).
Promote and educate local people on the high biodiversity value of this area
Develop program of sustainable tourism based on natural values and local traditional products.
Odransko polje is protected as an important landscape and part of Croatian Ecological Network.
68
Biodiversity
22. Lonjsko polje
The Lonjsko polje Nature Park consists of the central
part of the continental Croatia and the central course
of the Sava River. On both sides of the Sava River,
traditional rural settlements have been well
preserved. Wetlands, one of the most endangered
natural ecosystems and an important part of the
Lonjsko polje Nature Park, represent a great potential
for the preservation of ecological, cultural, economic,
scientific and recreational values.
Over 67% of the Park is classified as lowland riparian
(flooded) forest, representing integral complexes of
oak and ash stands, as well as valuable communities
of alder swamp woods. Wet meadows and pastures
in the Sava valley are extremely important habitats in the conservation of
biodiversity of river ecosystems, and together with the lowland wetland
forests represent a mosaic of the most integral floodplain ecosystem in
the whole bio-geographical area. The wetland habitats of Sava provide
ideal survival conditions for rare animal and plant species. The site
supports more than 2/3 of the Croatian bird population (250 species, 138
of which nest in Lonjsko polje). Also, 58 species of mammals, 16 species
of amphibians, 10 species of reptiles and 27 species of fish are recorded
in this area. Lonjsko polje is at the same time the biggest fish spawning
area in the whole of the Danube basin.
Ecological processes and the dynamics of inundation set the pattern for
the traditional land use, creating a unique mosaic of anthropogenic and
natural habitats, with native breeds such as the Croatian Posavian horse,
the Slavonian Podolian cattle and Turopolje pig. Traditional agriculture and cultivation of autochthon
breeds are still maintained and constitute an important element in the preservation of biological and
landscape diversity.
The natural floodplains occur on both sides of the Sava River. The sites Lonjsko polje, Mokro polje and
Poganovo polje are natural flood retention zones, which have an important role in the flood defence
system. The long-lasting and enduring tradition of adjustment to and living with the floods has created
an outstanding system. Such an approach is still used in the contemporary flood defence system, in
which the natural floodplain areas are deliberately used as floodwater retention areas.
The site covers a total area of 50.208,14 ha. The land use types are water bodies (0.57%); wetlands
(0.72%); arable land with large natural vegetation areas (5.91%); natural grasslands (25.23%); pastures
and natural grasslands combined with broadleaved forest (3.73%); broadleaved forest (57.98%);
intensively farmed land (3.56%); active rural areas-city areas (1.18%) and waste-dump (0.17%). Most of
the area is classified as forest (35.002 ha), then grasslands (4.593 ha), water and wetlands (2.255 ha),
cultivated non-forest land (6.425 ha).
The main reasons of endangerment are meliorating, river regulating, intensifying of farming, extensive
agriculture dying out, changing of water regime in the forests, devastation of carp fishponds, hunting
and illegal hunting, tourism and recreational activities.
Approximately 5% of the area is in private and 95% in national ownership. The site is protected as a
Nature Park. Inside the Park there are two Ornithological Reserves: Krapje ol (25 ha) and Rakita (450
ha). Since this is a protected area, the site is managed by Public Institution Lonjsko polje Nature Park.
Management plan was developed at the end of 2008.
69
Biodiversity
However, the Government of the Republic of Croatia has granted the management of state waters to
the public institution Croatian Waters and the management of state forests to the public institution
Croatian Forests. They are obligated to manage waters and forests according to measures for nature
protection that are given by the Department for Nature Protection (under the Ministry of Culture).
Lonjsko polje are involving all stakeholders in making decisions from its beginnings and in 2004 Lonjsko
polje Associates Council was formed with 24 members, which are representatives of all interested
groups. This Council discusses the benefits of protection and works on finding the best solution for
balancing the Government's plans for flood control and the Sava River chanalisation plans with nature
protection interests.
Table 22.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
3150
0.12
91E0
9.26
91F0
55.51
91L0
4.56
70
Biodiversity
Table 22.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Alcedo atthis
10-12p
(resident)
40p (breed)
830 (Canalisation)
141 (abandonment of
pastoral systems), 160
(General Forestry
management)
R (breed), C
(stage)
Aythya nyroca
C (breed)
Chlidonias
hybridus
Ciconia nigra
C (breed)
40-60p
(breed)
Crex crex
Dendrocopos
medius
230-270p
(breed)
1600-2200
(resident)
Egretta alba
C (breed)
Ficedula
albicollis
R (breed), R
(stage)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
Lanius collurio
30-35p
(resident)
4000-5000p
Ardeola
ralloides
Lanius minor
10-15p
Nycticorax
nycticorax
C (stage)
141(abandonment of
pastoral systems)
141(abandonment of
pastoral systems)
853 (management of water
levels), 952
(eutrophication)
Phalacrocorax
pygmeus
R (stage)
Aquila
pomarina
141(abandonment of
pastoral systems)
160 (General Forestry
management), 166
(removal dead/dying trees)
853 (management of water
levels), 952
(eutrophication)
71
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Platalea
leucorodia
70-150p
(breed)
Sterna albifrons
Saxicola rubetra
Sterna hirundo
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
V (stage)
6000-8000p
(breed)
C (stage)
141 (abandonment of
pastoral systems)
853 (management of water
levels)
Rhinolophus
ferrumequinum
Myotis myotis
Miniopterus
schreibersi
Rhinolophus
hipposideros
Myotis blythii
Myotis
bechsteini
Barbastella
barbastellus
Bombina
variegata
1162i
(breed)
83i (breed)
P (resident)
810 (Drainage)
Emys orbicularis
P (resident)
810 (Drainage)
Triturus
dobrogicus
P (resident)
810 (Drainage)
Bombina
bombina
P (resident)
810 (Drainage)
Eudontomyzon
spp.
Marsilea
quadrifolia
P (resident)
Castor fiber
12 fam
(resident)
Lutra lutra
P (resident)
X
X
72
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
Drainage
Management of aquatic and bank veg. for drainage
Canalization
Dykes, embankments, artificial beaches, general
Hunting
Management of water levels
Abandonment of pastoral systems
General Forestry management
Removal of dead and dying trees
Eutrophication.
73
Biodiversity
23. Sunjsko polje
The site is a lowland area by the Sunja River and
includes large wet grasslands, flooded forests of
pedunculate oak and alder. The Sunjsko polje
borders with Lonjsko polje Nature Park.
The site has a high landscape value due to dynamic
variety of broad pastures with cattle and horse
herds and pigs including the native breed Croatian
Posavian horse, forest areas and villages with
traditional architecture. The cattle and horses
inhibit succession of grasslands and conserve
valuable habitats. The wet grasslands are
important nesting areas for the endangered
species Crex crex and Circus pygargus.
The forests, which are part of the wide swamp habitats alongside Sava, are important nesting areas for
the endangered bird species: Haliaeetus albicilla, Aquila pomarina, Ciconia nigra, Dendrocopos medius
and Ficedula albicolis. Besides the abovementioned species, the site also hosts the endangered species
Lutra lutra (otter).
The site covers a total area of 20.368,89 ha. The land use types include city areas (1.3%); intensively
farmed land (2.14%); pastures and natural grasslands (5.29%); pastures and natural grasslands
combined with broadleaved forest (11.05%); broadleaved forest (58.7%); arable land with large natural
vegetation areas (16%); wetlands and water bodies (0.37%); water flows (3.05%); wetlands and
broadleaved forest (0.51%).
The site is currently not exposed to heavy risks. The main threats are change of water level in wet
forests due to drainage, intensive forest management, changes in traditional ways of farming, water
chanalisation; enhanced or illegal hunting; non-regulated recreational activities and tourism.
The area is proposed protected as an Important Landscape according to Croatian nature protection
shcheme. Due to ornithological values, the Lower Posavina is included in the Croatian ecological
network and will become an internationally important bird area under the Natura 2000 network. The
site includes a small locality Draiblato (20.63 ha) protected as a Special Ornithological Reserve. Part of
this Special Ornithological Reserve is managed by the Sisako-moslavaka County Public Institution for
Protected Nature Values, and the Public Institution will manage the future Important Landscape site.
Table 23.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
3150
91F0
49.66
9160
7.29
91E0
1.89
Proposed Actions
74
Biodiversity
6440
4.55
6450
6510
X
0.19
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Alcedo
atthis
10-12p
(resident)
1-2p (breed)
Ardea
cinerea
C*
(resident)
952 (eutrophication)
Ardeola
ralloides
R (stage)
952 (Eutrophication)
Aquila
pomarina
75
Biodiversity
Ciconia
ciconia
2-3p
Ciconia
nigra
2-3p (breed)
20-30p
(breed)
Dendrocopos 150-180p
medius
(breed)
Egretta alba
C (stage)
Ficedula
albicollis
C (breed)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
1-2p (breed)
Lanius
collurio
Lanius
minor
Nycticorax
nycticorax
C (resident)
2-3p
C* (breed)
Sterna
hirundo
C (stage)
952 (Eutrophication)
Saxicola
rubetra
Castor fiber
C (stage)
P (resident)
Lutra lutra
P (resident)
810 (Drainage)
Crex crex
Marsilea
quadrifolia
76
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
Develop Management plan. As a part of the Croatian ecological network and if protected by
national law, the site will be managed by county administration for managing protected areas.
Alternatively transfer management to the Lonjsko polje administration, since Lonjsko polje
borders with Sunjsko polje.
Ensure Management plan implementation
Entrust part of the conservation activities to landowner or land user
Capacity build County administration for managing protected areas
Secure funding and incentives for extensive livestock farming
Promote and educate local people on the high biodiversity value of this area
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and avoid drainage of wetlands
Develop program of sustainable tourism based on natural values and local traditional products
Prevent reallocation of pastures to arable land
Start active mowing of grassland habitat types in succession.
77
Biodiversity
24. Ribnjaci Lipovljani
This is one of the nine carp fishponds in Croatia.
Carp fishponds are artificial wetland areas of great
landscape and ornithological value. The site
contains a complex of carp fishponds with well
developed emerged and floating vegetation and
surrounded by oak forests, mesophyllus meadows
and mosaic agricultural landscape. Nearby the site
the Pakra Lake is located, which is an important
area for nesting and wintering of wetland birds.
The fishpond borders with Lonjsko Polje Nature
Park. The wider area of the Lower Posavina,
including the Lipovljani fishponds, is a complex of
internationally important wetland habitats for
birds evaluated as a potential Natura 2000 site.
Many bird populations depend on this area such as the Haliaeetus albicilla, Chlidonias hybrida,
Chlidonias nigra, Aythya nyroca, Rallus aquaticus, Porzana spp., Podiceps nigricollis, Ardea cinerea. It is
also an important site for Lutra lutra (otter).
The site covers a total area of 1.940,47 ha. The land use types are city areas (1.9%), intensively farmed
land (7.18%); pastures and natural grasslands (5.36%); pastures and natural grasslands combined with
broadleaved forest (0.88%), broadleaved forest (18.05%); water bodies (46.11%); arable land with large
natural vegetation areas (15.38%) and wetland area combined with roads and railways (5.15%).
The main threat is the possible loss of the carp fishponds due to termination of fish production,
intensification of agriculture and enhanced or illegal hunting.
The site is part of the Croatian ecological network. The site is managed by Croatian Forests, which have
no interest in fish production. Since the site is a part of Croatian ecological network, the Sisakomoslavaka County Public Institution for Protected Nature Values is responsible for nature protection of
the area, but an actual management plan has not yet been established.
Table 24.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
6440
0.39
6510
4.97
9160
10.72
91E0
0.73
91F0
6.6
Proposed Actions
78
Biodiversity
Fig. 24.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Alcedo atthis
1-2 (resident)
Ardea cinerea
C (resident)
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Aythya nyroca
Chlidonias
hybridus
Ciconia ciconia
20p (breed),
200-300i
(stage)
150-200p
(breed)
5-6i*
Ciconia nigra
6-8i*
Dendrocopus
medius
10-15p
Egretta alba
C (stage)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Platalea
leucorodia
Saxicola
rubetra
Sterna hirundo
10-20i*
(resident)
C(stage)
20-40i*
20-30p
(breed)
Lutra lutra
P (resident)
79
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Emys
orbicularis
Bombina
bombina
Bombina
variegata
Castor fiber
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
810 (Drainage)
Hunting
Abandonment of fish farming
General Forestry management
Removal of dead and dying trees
Abandonment of pastoral systems
Professional fishing
Drainage
General Forestry management
Management of water levels
Dykes, embankments, artificial beaches, general.
80
Biodiversity
25. Ribnjaci Slobotina/Vrbovljani
The site contains a complex of carp fishponds with
well developed emerged and floating vegetation
and surrounded by oak forest, mesophyllus
meadows and mosaic agricultural landscape.
Fishponds are important places for wetland bird
reproduction as well as nutrition place for
breeding birds that nest in nearby Lonjsko Polje
Nature Park. This fishpond borders with Lonjsko
Polje Nature Park. Wider area of Lower Posavina
(including Lipovljani fishponds) is a complex of
internationally important wetland habitats for
birds and is evaluated as a potential NATURA 2000
area. In the future it is recommended to combine
promotional activities and fishpond protection for this site with the existing promotional activities of the
Lonjsko Polje Nature Park. This site is an important area for wetland birds as well as water and wetland
vegetation. Its a breeding site for Chlydonias hybridus and an important site for wintering of the birds.
Total size of the site: 1 352.95 ha. Land use: intensively farmed land (3.2%); leaf forest (5.35%); water
bodies (37.97%); natural wet grasslands (53.49%).
The main threats are: the possible loss of carp fishponds due to termination of fish production (without
the production and maintenance of water regime, the fishponds grow with vegetation in a few years),
intensification of agriculture and enhanced or illegal hunting. The protection and marketing of this area
should be associated with Lonjsko Polje Nature Park.
The site is included in Croatias National ecological network. A private company, which has a hunting
concession, is managing the maintenance of water regime. Fish production has been neglected the last
few years, but the water regime has been maintained because of the hunting. Few of important ponds
were drained and crops for deer nutrition were planted instead. The fishpond area is an active hunting
zone. Since the site is a part of Croatias National ecological network, the Brodsko-posavska Countys
Public Institution for Protected Nature Values is responsible for nature protection of the area, but an
actual management plan for the Public Institution has not yet been established. Required protection
measures are: to prevent the change of water regime necessary for wetland birds, to ensure the
financial support for extensive and half-intensive fish production and regulate hunting.
Table 25.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
91F0
6440
53,48
Proposed Actions
81
Biodiversity
Fig. 25.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Alcedo atthis
1* (resident)
Ardea cinerea
Ardeola ralloides
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
C* (resident)
R (stage)
Aythya nyroca
C (breed)
Chlidonias
hybridus
Ciconia nigra
C (breed)
6-8i* (breed)
Dendrocopus
medius
1-2p
(resident)
Egretta alba
C (stage)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
Lanius collurio
2-4i* (breed)
C (breed)
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Platalea
leucorodia
Saxicola rubetra
C (breed)
R (stage)
Sterna hirundo
200-300p
(breed)
C (stage)
Emys orbicularis
810 (Drainage)
Bombina
bombina
Bombina
variegata
Castor fiber
810 (Drainage)
810 (Drainage)
82
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
810 (Drainage)
Drainage
Management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage
General Forestry management
Removal of dead and dying trees
Abandonment of fish farming
Abandonment of pastoral systems
Hunting
Modification of hydrographic functioning, general
Modifying structures of inland water courses
Management of water levels.
83
Biodiversity
26. Pranik
The site is a part of an old forest Pranik protected
as a Forest Reserve since 1965. It is characterized
with two types of flooded oak forest: Genisto
elatae-Quercetum roboris type and Carpino
betuli.Quercetum roboris type. The forest is
approximately 300 years old. 1500 trees of
Common oak (Quercus robur) up to 300 years old
are between 70-200 cm in diameter.
The forest is endangered due to disrupted water
regime.
The site covers a total area of 57,07 ha. The site is
completely in state ownership.
The site is protected as a Special Forest Reserve and is included in the Croatian ecological network. The
site has been omitted from regular forest management. The site is managed by the public institution
Croatian Forests, which is obliged to incorporate measures of nature protection, which are prescribed
by the Department for nature protection under the Ministry of culture in their forest management plan.
Implementation of prescribed nature protection measures - or rather the control of the implementation
- is difficult due to lack of rangers in protected areas, especially for this site since the County Public
Institution for Protected Nature Values only has two employees. Also, this site is still partly mined so it is
very difficult to access the area.
Table 26.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
9160
91F0
84
Biodiversity
The Natura 2000 focal species: There are no Natura 2000 species in site.
Develop management plan and prepare/adopt Ordinance order specifying protection measures
Ensuring management plan implementation.
Integrate water management with nature protection needsa and prevent changes of water
regime.
85
Biodiversity
27. Jelas polje
The site contains a complex of carp fishponds with
well developed emerged and floating vegetation
and surrounded by oak forest, mesophyllus
meadows and mosaic agricultural landscape. The
nearby agricultural area is included because it is
important for migration and wintering of Grus grus
(crane). Two forests important for breeding of
Haliaeetus albicilla and Ardea cinerea are also
included in this site. The fishponds are important
breeding site for wetland birds such as Platalea
leucorodia, Chlydonias hybridus, Larus ridibundus,
Anser anser and for migration and wintering. This
is also an important site for Lutra lutra (otter).
In the east part of the fishpond complex (1.086 ha) fish production was stopped in 2000 and this part is
now neglected. There is a hunting zone established in the active part of the fishponds.
The site covers a total area of 10,430.94 ha. The land use types are intensively farmed land (35.97%);
arable land with large natural vegetation areas (0.82%); broadleaved forest (23.31%); water bodies and
water flows (21.78%); natural wet grasslands (12.84%) and wetlands with broadleaved forest (0.1%).
The main threats are possible loss of carp fishponds due to termination of fish production (without the
production and maintenance of water regime, the fishponds grow with vegetation in a few years),
intensification of agriculture and enhanced or illegal hunting.
One part of the site is protected as a Special Ornithological Reserve. The site is included in the Croatian
ecological network and will be designated as a Natura 2000 site. One part of Jelas polje has been
protected since 1995 as an Important Landscape. The area is also internationally recognised because it
has been pronounced as a international important bird area (IBA). The fishponds are partly (1.219 ha)
managed by a private company. The Brodsko-posavska County Public Institution for Protected Nature
Values is responsible for the nature protection of the area.
Table 27.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
91F0
21.24
6440
11.87
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
86
Biodiversity
Fig. 27.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Emys orbicularis
Barbastella
barbastellus
Miniopterus
schreibersi
Alcedo atthis
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
810 (Drainage)
Ardea cinerea
1-2p*
(resident)
C (breeding)
Ardeola ralloides
C (breeding)
Aythya nyroca
C (breeding)
Chlidonias
hybridus
Ciconia nigra
C (breeding)
Dendrocopos
medius
2-6i*
(breeding)
100-120p
(resident)
Egretta alba
C (staging)
Ficedula albicollis
2000-5000p
(breeding)
1-2p
(resident)
C (breeding)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
Lanius collurio
87
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Nycticorax
nycticorax
Phalacrocorax
pygmeus
Platalea
leucorodia
Saxicola rubetra
C (breeding)
Sterna hirundo
Proposed Actions
C (breeding)
40-70p
(breeding)
120-140p
(breeding)
10-20p
(breeding)
Drainage
Abandonment of pastoral systems
Abandonment of fish farming
General Forestry management
Removal of dead and dying trees
Modification of hydrographic functioning, general
Modifying structures of inland water courses
Management of water levels.
88
Biodiversity
28. Dvorina
The site is a flooded area between the Sava River
and the east dyke near the town Slavonski Brod
and the village Donja Bebrina.
The importance of this area is the large wet
grasslands, old armlets with rich water and
wetland vegetation and numerous temporary
ponds developed after the flood. The grasslands
are used for cattle grazing, although lately, the
number of cattle is reduced. The area is important
for birds, especially the largest pond Dvorina.
The site covers a total size of 2.066,34 ha. The land
use types are water flows (6.23%); natural wet
grasslands (53.51%); wetlands (1.82%); wetlands combined with broadleaved forest (2.42%);
broadleaved forest (11.78%); intensively farmed land (21.72%); arable land with large natural vegetation
areas (0.09%); and city areas (2.42%).
The main threats for the site are the abandonment of extensive agriculture and reduction of cattle
numbers, which as a consequence induce succession of pastures.
One part of the area is protected as a Special Ornithological Reserve since 1988 (1.066,68 ha). The site is
included in the Croatian ecological network. The site is managed by the Brodsko-posavska County Public
Institution for Protected Nature Values.
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
3150
91E0
0.49
6440
40.88
89
Biodiversity
Fig. 28.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Alcedo atthis
1-2i*
Ardea
cinerea
C*
Ardeola
ralloides
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
952 (eutrophication)
R(stage)
952 (eutrophication)
Aythya
nyroca
R(stage)
952 (eutrophication)
Chlidonias
hybridus
15-20p
(breeding)
952 (eutrophication)
Ciconia
ciconia
Ciconia nigra
C
(breeding)
2-5i*
Dendrocopos
medius
10-20p
(resident)
90
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Egretta alba
C*
(breeding)
952 (eutrophication)
Haliaeetus
albicilla
1-2i*
(resident)
Lanius
collurio
Nycticorax
nycticorax
C
(breeding)
C*
(breeding)
X
X
Platalea
leucorodia
20-30i*
(breeding)
952 (eutrophication)
Saxicola
rubetra
Sterna
hirundo
C (stage)
X
100-200p
(breeding)
91
Biodiversity
29. Gajna
The site is a flooded area between the Sava River
and the east dyke near Slavonski Brod and the
village Oprisavci. The importance of this area is
large wet grasslands, old armlets with rich water
and wetland vegetation as well as numerous
alluvial depressions, in which flood water is
retained in spring and autumn even after it is
suppressed back into Sava. The biggest of them,
Velika Gajna, covers 5 ha and is an important area
for Marsilea quadrifolia. The grasslands are being
used for cattle grazing.
Gajna is a typical slavonian flooded pasture for the
Sava River. The grasslands are being used for cattle
grazing, although the cattle number has decreased over the years. However, the native cattle breed
Slavonian Podolian cattle was reintroduced a couple of years ago. The cattle are held on the pasture
throughout the year. One of the aims of having these particular cattle is the repression of the invasive
species Amorpha fruticosa. The results are excellent with more than half of the grasslands overgrown
with Amorpha fruticosa are now without the invasive species due to these cattle. This has significantly
improved biodiversity and land use at this area.
The site covers a total size of 565.81 ha. The land use types are water flows (8.94%); natural wet
grasslands (67.86%); city areas (11.84%); intensively farmed land (10.83%); and arable land with large
natural vegetation areas (0.54%).
The invasive species is Amorpha fruticosa. The main threat for the site is abandonment of extensive
agriculture and reduction of cattle numbers, which as a consequence induces succession of pastures.
The site is completely in state ownership. One part of the site is protected as an Important Landscape
since 1990 (280 ha). The site is included in the Croatian ecological network. The local NGO Brodsko
ekoloko drutvo is actively managing the area by ensuring a favorable water regime for Velika Gajna.
The site is also under the management of the Brodsko-posavska County Public Institution for Protected
Nature Values.
Table 29.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
6440
14.87
3150
3130
Proposed Actions
92
Biodiversity
Fig. 29.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Alcedo atthis
1-2i*
(resident)
C (resident)
2-5i*
(breeding)
Halliaetus
albicilla
1-2i*
(resident)
Saxicola
rubetra
Ciconia
ciconia
Aythya
nyroca
30-40p
(breeding)
R
(stage)
Nycticorax
nycticorax
C*
(breeding)
952 (eutrophication)
Lanius
collurio
Ciconia nigra
Proposed Actions
93
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Ardea
cinerea
C*
(resident)
952 (eutrophication)
Ardeola
ralloides
R(stage)
952 (eutrophication)
Egretta alba
C*
(breeding)
952 (eutrophication)
Marsilea
quadrifolia
Platalea
leucorodia
20-30i*
(breeding)
Sterna
hirundo
C(stage)
952 (eutrophication)
94
Biodiversity
30. Spavanski bazen
This site consist of a forest area with
representative flooded forests of Common oak,
Black alder and Ash and is situated in the east part
of Croatia, at the border with Serbia and Bosnia
and Herzegovina. The forest is combined of areas
of different age which are managed on a regular
basis, except for two Forest Reserves. The area has
several rivers, Virovi, Spava, Studva etc., with
water and wetlands vegetation. Breeding birds of
the area are Haliaeetus albicilla and Ciconia nigra.
The pastures are very poor so the number of
nesting pairs of birds that feed on these areas is
limited.
The goal is to protect the following species: Aquila pomarina, Ciconia nigra, Dendrocopos medius,
Ficedula albicollis, Haliaeetus albicilla and Picus canus.
The site covers a total size of 42.992,47 ha. Land use: water flows (0.13%); natural wet grasslands
(1.08%); wetlands combined with broadleaved forest (0.06%); wetlands (0.12%); broadleaved forest
(96.97%); intensively farmed land (1.42%); arable land with large natural vegetation areas (0.23%).
The forests are endangered by the change of water regime, especially by the reduction of underground
water level. A danger is also the planned building of a large (120 m wide) sailing canal that should
connect Dunav and Sava rivers going through the forest complex. The last part of the Zagreb-Belgrade
highway passes right through the forest complex so a significant part of it has been cut down without
any compensation. The forest is surrounded by intensively arable land, which reduces the possibility for
feeding of endangered species such as Haliaeetus albicilla, Ciconia nigra and Aquila pomarina.
The site is partly protected. Two Forest Reserves are protected since 1975, i.e. Loe with old oak forest
on 110.41 ha, and Radievo with Querqus robur-Carpinus betulus-Fagus sylvatica forest on 4.10 ha. Two
areas are protected since 1999 as Important Landscapes: Virovi (185 ha) and Spava (278 ha). The whole
site is included in the Croatian ecological network as an important bird area. The site is regularly
managed through the forest management plan by the public institution Croatian Forests. The
protected areas are being managed as special purpose forests.
Table 30.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
91F0
55.46
91E0
0.34
9160
41
95
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3150
Proposed Actions
Fig. 30.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Lutra lutra
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
Proposed Actions
810 (Drainage)
-
Miniopterus
schreibersi
Barbastella
barbastellus
Alcedo atthis
215i
(breeding)
43i
(breeding)
2p*
Aquila
pomarina
1-2p
(resident)
Ardea cinerea
C*
(resident)
96
Biodiversity
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Haliaeetus
albicilla
2-4p
(resident)
Ciconia nigra
8-12p
(breeding)
Ficedula
albicollis
Dendrocopos
medius
2000-6000p
(breeding)
2000-3000p
(resident)
Lanius collurio
200-300p
(breeding)
Drainage
General Forestry management
Removal of dead and dying trees
Abandonment of pastoral systems
Canalisation
Modification of hydrographic functioning, general
Modifying structures of inland water courses
Management of water levels
Damage by game species.
97
Biodiversity
31. Sava Podsused
The site located alongside the Sava River near
Podsused has been protected in 1970 as an
Ornithological Reserve because of its relevance for
breeding birds and migratory birds. The site
includes galleries of willow and poplar, wet
meadows, numerous creeks, armlets, natural
riverside and muddy and sandy banks. A total of
166 bird species have been registered in the site
(93 breeding birds, 107 migratory birds, 61
wintering birds) and the site is also a nationally
valuable breeding area for Actytis hypoleucos.
Over the years the situation has changed
drastically in the site. Due to activities of river
regulation and building of hydro power plants in the upper Sava stream, the river-bed has deepen for 56 m over the last 40 years, leaving wetlands dried out, except in times of very high water levels. The
ornithological value of this site has been significantly reduced.
The site covers a total size of 377.92 ha. The land use types are water flows (8.57%); wetlands combined
with broadleaved forest (0.41%); broadleaved forest (57.41%); arable land with large natural vegetation
areas (26.04%) and intensively farmed land (7.58%).
The main threats of the site are that the valuable river and wetland habitat types are degraded or
vanished, especially the riversides and muddy and sandy banks. The planned hydro power plant
represents a threat, but also if harmonised with nature protection needs gives the possibility for
wetlands restoration and building a place for breeding birds.
One part of the site is protected as an Ornithological Reserve (243 ha). The site is included in Croatian
ecological network as a restoration site, which has to be renewed within the future Sava regulation
projects. There is no active management, though measures of restoration are being planned. The
Zagrebaka County Public Institution for Protected Nature Values is responsible for the nature
protection of the area.
Table 31.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3130
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
91E0
X
91F0
57.4
Proposed Actions
810 (Drainage)
98
Biodiversity
Fig. 31.1. Distribution map of Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Alcedo
atthis
1p
(resident)
Lanius
collurio
Nycticorax
nycticorax
C
(breeding)
R (stage)
X
X
C*
(resident)
5-6* p
(resident)
Ardea
cinerea
Sterna
hirundo
99
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
Drainage
Removal of sediments
Canalisation
Water pollution
Other urbanisation, industrial and similar activities
Dykes, embankments, artificial beaches, general.
Develop management plan for the site or within the Sava River basin management plan make
special focus on this area as a restoration site forming part of the Croatian ecological network
Ensure Management plan implementation.
Restore wetland habitats
Restore and create habitats for breeding birds.
100
Biodiversity
32. utica
The site utica is an integral forest complex
situated only 40 km from Zagreb, near Lonjsko
Polje Nature Park. It is the second largest lowland
forest in Croatia. The utica forest complex is
important as habitat for an endangered species of
fish Umbra krameri. The forest is a floodplain
almost every year. It is used as retention area so
the water from Sava River is released into utica
through a canal if there is a danger from flooding.
Over 100 years ago in the Posavina area a native
population of beavers (Castor fiber) existed but
due to change of habitat conditions they vanished.
utica has proved as a favourable site for
reintroduction of beavers, so 47 beavers were
released at utica in 1996.
The site is special because it has been a drill-site with more than 200 boreholes since 1964, yet the rich
characteristic herbal and animal world survived in the forest. There are 107 active boreholes and 19
boreholes are now closed. The drill-sites that are closed will not be in use in the future so they are
closed with cement cork and buried with soil. Forest seedlings are planted on top so former boreholes
are covered with trees. There are no waste waters because the water used for embedment in the
borehole is extracted from the oil into special tanks where water circulates and pressed into the
borehole. The last borehole has been started in 2003. It is estimated that there is oil on this site until the
year 2035. The meadows on the border of the forest are pastures for a native horse breed (Croatian
Posavian horse), which are being held in the open most of the year. The forest is exploited by the public
institution Croatian Forests for commercial purposes.
The invasive species are Amorpha fruticosa and Ambrosia artemisiifolia. Amorpha is found at
approximately 600-700 ha, mostly in areas of young forest, where it is harder to repress it.
The site covers a total size of 4.698 ha. The land use are industrial areas (0.25%); intensivelyfarmed land
(0.19%); pastures/natural grasslands/ broadleaved forest (4.07%); broadleaved forest (86.84%); arable
land with large natural vegetation areas (7.21%); natural wet grasslands (1.45%). The ownership of the
site is 90% public ownership (public forests); the rest is private property.
The site is included in the Croatian ecological network. The County Public Institution for Protected
Nature Values is preparing a project for placing a five km long educational trail in this area, combining
various point types (forest, pastures, native horse breed etc.). There is a cycling route that passes
through utica site. The site is regularly managed through the forest management plan by the public
institution Croatian Forests. The Zagrebaka County Public Institution for Protected Nature Values is
responsible for nature protection of the area, but an actual management plan has not yet been
established.
Table 32.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3150
6440
1.45
Proposed Actions
101
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
6450
9160
22.98
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
X
91E0
91F0
X
63.86
Proposed Actions
Population
size
Umbra
krameri
Castor fiber
Alcedo atthis
Dendrocopos
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
810 (drainage)
1-2p
(resident)
90-100 p
102
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
medius
(resident)
Ciconia nigra
1-2p
(breeding)
Halliaetus
albicilla
Ardea
cinerea
2p
(resident)
C*
(resident)
103
Biodiversity
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Serbia
Coverage
3150
2,2 %
3270
1,0 %
91E0
13.6 %
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
X
54%
X
46%
X
47%
X
53%
104
Biodiversity
Fig. 33.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population Conservation
size
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Triturus
dobrogicus
Emys
orbicularis
Haliaetus
albicilla
C (1-3 i)
Alcedo
athis
C (1-3 bp)
X
35%
X
61%
4%
105
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population Conservation
size
Status
A
B
C
Saxicola
rubetra
C (0-2 bp)
Lutra lutra
X
51%
X
49%
Proposed Actions
Cultivation
Sport and leisure structures
Drying out/ accumulation of organic material
Species invasion.
106
Biodiversity
34. Crni lug ivaa
The site is located on the left side of the river Sava, near Belgrade. The site contains well preserved
riparian oak and mixed forests. Site includes fishpond important for migratory birds, also very important
for white-tailed eagle Haliaaetus albicilla and black stork Ciconia nigra. Natural wetlands are also
present but in smaller percentage.
Forest vegetation is dominating in this area, while the rest is under arable lands and fish pond. At the
part of the site dominated by agriculture a numerous ameliorative channels were made. In the flooded
area are the mixed forests with willow, poplar, and ash species. Forest vegetation is also spread on the
part of the site protected by dyke. These are managed forests, mainly Common oak with different age
groups (the oldest stand has around 120 years) and Common oak with hornbeam. This is fenced hunting
area (Crni Lug) in which wild boar, deer and roe-deer are kept.
The most part of the site is situated behind the dyke and therefore protected from flooding. However, it
is partially waterlogged by groundwater during the spring period.
The site covers a total area of 1.203 ha. The main land use is intensively managed forest. 80% is under
forest vegetation, 10% occupied by a fish pond (ivaa) and almost 10% is covered by arable land
(within the meander). The ownership of the site is the State for 80%, while 20% is in private ownership.
The management is performed by JP Srbijasume, which is the public enterprise for forestry in Serbia.
The flooded area, located next to the dyke, is under state property and managed by Srbijavode, which
is the public enterprise for water management in Serbia. The rest of the site is in private property with
small plots and the area of the fish pond.
Table 34.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A B
C
3150
1.59 %
X
65%
91F0
51.1 %
Reedbeds
3,0 %
X
86%
X
35%
X
14%
Proposed Actions
107
Biodiversity
Fig. 34.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Emys
orbicularis
X
34%
X
66%
Bombina
bombina
X
19%
X
81%
Haliaeetus
albicilla
C (1-2 bp)
Ciconia
nigra
C (2-4 bp)
Sterna
hirundo
C (10-30i)
Proposed Actions
108
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Alcedo athis
C (2-4bp)
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Saxicola
rubetra
C (3-6 bp)
Ficedula
albicollis
C (15-30bp)
Lutra lutra
12%
X
88%
X
95%
5%
X
70%
X
30%
X
44%
X
56%
Proposed Actions
Cultivation
General forestry management
Hunting
Fish aquaculture.
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and harmonize forest management with protection needs
(enable natural succession and renewal of forest undergrowth in some parts, leave old and dead
trees, reduce logging near important localities for species, reduce disturbance and human
presence within habitat types during spring and summer)
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and harmonize fishpond
management with conservation and protection needs (adequate water level, reduce water
vegetation removal, create artificial islands for birds, reduce disturbance of waterbirds)
Create tourist trails and control access to locations important for habitat types and species
Control leisure fishing
109
Biodiversity
110
Biodiversity
35. Bojinska uma
The site contains well preserved oak forest and is an important
nesting site for woodland birds (Ciconia nigra, Aquila pomarina,
Dendrocopos medius, Ficedula albicollis) as well as for the
reproduction of amphibians. The forest habitat types cover
almost 100% of the area.
Forest vegetation is well managed and dominated in this
lowland area, while the rest consist of arable land. Up to 200 ha
of forests are natural. These are natural common oak forest
stands, with different age groups (from 15 years to the oldest
stands with nearly 120 years). These heliophyte hygrophilous
stands are well known as forests with high biodiversity values.
The site is a few meters above river level, located behind the
dyke along the Sava River and is therefore never flooded.
The site covers a total area of 584 ha. The main land use is
forestry combined with hunting tourism. There is also extensive
farming, especially with the autochthonous Mangulica pig. The
whole area is state owned and it is intensively managed by
public enterprise for forestry in Serbia JP Srbijasume.
The invasive species appear but in low number, the most abundant are Amorpha fruticosa and Acer
negundo.
The area has no legal conservation regime.
Table 35.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3150
0,4
9160
36,3
Proposed Actions
111
Biodiversity
Fig. 35.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Bombina
bombina
Haliaeetus
albicilla
C (1 bp)
Aquila
pomarina
B (1bp)
X
76%
X
24%
Ciconia
nigra
C (1-2 bp)
X
24%
X
76%
Dendrocopos C (5-10bp)
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
Proposed Actions
164 - forestry clearance, 165 removal of forest undergrowth, 810 Drainage, 850 - Modification of
hydrographic functioning, general,
853 - management of water levels
112
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
medius
Saxicola
rubetra
C (2-4bp)
Ficedula
albicollis
C (10-20
bp)
Lutra lutra
X
53%
66%
34%
X
90%
10%
X
32%
X
16%
Proposed Actions
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and harmonize current forest management with conservation
and protection needs (enable natural succession and renewal of forest undergrowth in some
parts, leave old and dead trees, reduce logging near important localities for species, reduce
disturbance and human presence within habitats during spring and summer)
Create tourist marked trails and control access to locations important for habitat types and
species
Manage open habitats by mowing and preventing melioration
Prevent further infrastructure development within site.
Define zones or localities which are important for target habitat types and species
Establish management body
Develop management plan and action plans for particular habitat types and species. Specific
measures must be included in the management to achieve proper conservation of lesser spotted
eagle and black stork.
113
Biodiversity
36. Orlaa
The site is located on the right side of the river Sava within a large meander and contains well preserved
riparian woods and wetlands, i.e. marshes and floodplains. Recently, the huge human impact by
drainage and cultivation has significantly changed the character of the site but it is still valuable and
important for some bird species like Vanellus vanellus and Ciconia nigra. Drainage of the area has
allowed intensive cultivation and degradation of riparian forests and wetlands.
On a narrow belt on the site edge, many different species of scrubs and trees exist. In this part of site an
endemic insect species (Zeuneriana amplipennis) was discovered in 2007. The forests are present as
small mixed wood with individual trees of Common Oak.
Almost whole area is protected by dyke. Besides, some parts in lower altitudes are waterlogged during
spring season and high water level of the Sava River.
The site covers a total area 1.281 ha. The land use is a rural mosaic of arable land, small forests and
grasslands. There is slightly dominance of agriculture. The site is in private ownership for 95%. Only the
narrow belt of foreland, dyke and roads are state owned. This site covers 3 national reserves, but
revision of legal protection is in process.
The invasive species are: Amorpha fruticosa, Acer negundo, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Ailanthus altissima,
Ambrosia artemisifolia.
Table 36.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3150
0,9
91F0
8,9
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
Proposed Actions
114
Biodiversity
Fig. 36.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Bombina
bombina
X
86%
Emys
orbicularis
X
66%
Haliaeetus
albicilla
C (3-5i)
Ciconia nigra
C (0-1bp)
Alcedo athis
C (1-2bp)
Proposed Actions
X
14%
X
34%
403 - dispersed habitation, 421 disposal of household waste, 803 infilling of ditches, dykes, ponds,
pools, marshes or pits, 853 management of water levels, 951 drying out / accumulation of organic
material, 952 - eutrophication
100 - Cultivation, 160 - General
Forestry management, 230 - Hunting,
243 - trapping, poisoning, poaching,
403 - dispersed habitation, 810 Drainage, 951 - drying out /
accumulation of organic material
115
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Dendrocopos
medius
C (0-2 bp)
Saxicola
rubetra
C (2-5bp)
Lutra lutra
Castor fiber
Proposed Actions
Cultivation
General forest management
Hunting
Modification of hydrographic functioning
Invasion by a species.
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and harmonize water level
management with conservation needs
Prevent further melioration and transition of natural habitats to agriculture fields
Define and implement conservation measures for wetland habitat types
Reduce use of pesticides within site
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and replant with native tree species
Revise existing protected areas in site
Develop and secure incentives program for local farmers
Develop management plan and action plans for particular habitat types and species
Buy up land with most important habitat types and species and protect under appropriate
national legislation.
116
Biodiversity
37. Ue Drine
The site covers an area of about 19 km along the
Drina River up to its discharge into the Sava River
and expands to the right bank of Sava River (about 4
km). It is located in the North-Western part of the
fertile Macva plain and is bounded by the Drina River
in the West and by the Sava River in the North.
The Drina River forms also the state border between
Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. The Drina has
changed its course frequently and is characterized by
many meanders and flow paths.
The site consists of two parts: Southern part located
along banks of the Drina River and the Northern part near the confluence with and banks of the Sava
River. A characteristic biological feature of this area is the occurrence of the rare bird Sterna albifrons
that nests on islands in the River Drina. This site represents the only known breeding place of Sterna
albifrons in Serbia. It is also very important for Sterna hirundo and other bird species (Ciconia nigra,
Haliaeetus albicilla). The site involves the lower part of the Drina course, which is characteristic by
meanders and high quantity of gravel sediments. River forms numerous gravel islands and beeches
which are important for some plants and animals. Alluvial forests are presents on the river banks. The
site is characterized by mosaic landscape and is a complex of small plots, divided by small forest strips
and shrubs. Most of these forests are mixed stands with characteristic species for lowlands (ash-tree,
poplar-tree and willows). Forestry is not intensive in this area but there are some plots planted with
poplars for commercial use.
The total size of the site is 1.967 ha. The southern part is mainly under agricultural use and the area with
forest vegetation is frequently flooded, while the Northern part with mixed broadleaved forests is
protected from flooding by a dyke. One part outside the dyke is managed by Public Enterprise
Srbijavode, while the other (inner part) is managed by Public Enterprise Srbijaume (approximately
200 ha 10%). The rest of the site is in private ownership.
The invasive species are: Amorpha fruticosa, Acer negundo, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Conyza sp.,Bidens
sp., Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Phytolacca americana, Echynocistis lobata.
Table 37.1: Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
3150
1,4 ha
X
13%
3270
0,3 ha
X
87%
X
94%
6%
117
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
91E0
0,6 ha
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
Proposed Actions
Population Conservation
size
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Emys
orbicularis
Bombina
bombina
Haliaeetus
albicilla
118
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population Conservation
size
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
Sterna
hirundo
X
87%
X
13%
Sterna
albifrons
X
27%
X
73%
Alcedo
athis
Lutra lutra
X
40%
X
60%
Cultivation
General forest management
Leisure fishing
Sand and gravel extraction
Disposal of household waste
Sport and leisure activities
Water pollution
Invasion of species.
Prevent and control gravel extraction on localities important for bird species, especially within
the Drina riverbed
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and improve control of tree cutting and general forest
management, as well as reforestate with native species in accordance with habitat type
definitions
Prevent deposition of household waste and clear current deposits
Protect and manage important wetlands in flooded area by eg. mud and vegetation removal
Control access of tourist to important localities for birds and define recreation areas and
beeches.
119
Biodiversity
Define zones and localities important for target habitat types and species
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and incorporate conservation needs
in general river management
Establish management body
Develop management plan and action plans for particular habitat types and species.
120
Biodiversity
38. Obedska bara
Obedska bara is one of the best preserved and hold
the largest complex of wetland habitat types
including submerged water communities, rooted
floating vegetation, riparian forests). Old, preserved
flooded forests are well represented in the site. It is
of great national importance for Ciconia nigra,
Haliaaetus albicilla, Milvus migrans, Emys
orbicularis, Pelobates fuscus, Trirutrus dobrogicus
and other rare and endangered plant species. Castor
fiber has been reintroduced recently.
The mosaic of forests and wetlands are dominated
by a mixture of old lowland oak-ash-hornbeam
forests, but with many marshes and waterlogged areas. The complexes of lowland ecosystems are of
outstanding quality due to the natural flooding. Oxbows and mostly overgrown old meanders are the
most outstanding landscape features. Grasslands are present both in small patches and in larger
complexes, but the succession toward a forest vegetation, caused by insufficient number of wild and
domestic herbivores is visible almost everywhere.
The site, which includes the Special Nature Reserve Obedska bara, is located for the biggest part outside
of the dyke and under direct influence of the water levels of the River Sava.
The site covers a total area of 19.667 ha. The dominant land use is forestry on 17.047 ha (86,7%). The
land use intensity, according to the agreed land use criteria, is mostly moderate in natural or seminatural forests and intensive in poplar plantations. 13.097ha (78,6%) is covered by natural or seminatural deciduous forests and 3.950 ha (20,1%) of poplar plantations.
More than 95% of the land within the site is in state ownership, predominantly covered by the forests
and managed by the forest management company Public Enterprise Vojvodinaume. About 1.655 ha
(8,4%) of the land covered with forests, pastures and arable land is fenced and primarily managed by
Serbian Armed Forces. The remining part of the land is agricultural land in private ownership. Exactly
9.820 ha (49,9%) of the site is protected as Special Nature Reserve Obedska bara, managed by Public
Enterprise Vojvodinasume.
The invasive plant species are: Amorpha fruticosa, Acer negundo, Fraxinus pennsylvanica and several
Aster species. The invasive fish species are: Carassius auratus gibelio, Lepomis gibbosus, Ictalurus
nebulosus, Pseudorasbora parva.
Table 38.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
1530
0,1
3130
0,1
3150
0,4
Proposed Actions
121
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3270
0,9
6440
0,1
6450
0,1
6510
0,2
9160
39,5
91E0
1,2
91F0
31,7
Reedbeds 5,6
Proposed Actions
122
Biodiversity
Fig. 38.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A B
C
Triturus
dobrogicus
Emys
orbicularis
Bombina
bombina
Phalacrocorax 3-20bp
pygmaeus
Ixobrichus
minutes
30-40bp
Proposed Actions
123
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A B
C
Proposed Actions
Nycticorax
nycticorax
300-450bp
Ardeola
ralloides
20-35bp
Egretta
garzetta
40-90bp
Casmerodius
albus
4-8bp
Ardea
cinerea
40-70bp
Ardea
purpurea
20-30bp
Ciconia
nigra
15-18bp
Plegadis
falcinellus
0-1bp
Haliaeetus
albicilla
4-5bp
Aquila
pomarina
3bp
Falco
cherrug
1-2bp
Alcedo athis
5-10 bp
124
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A B
C
Dendrocopo
s medius
200-300bp
Ficedula
albicollis
150-200bp
Lanius
minor
3-5bp
Saxicola
rubetra
Lutra lutra
Castor fiber
Proposed Actions
water level
Drainage
Water regulation
Cultivation
Natural succession
Eutrophication
Intensive use of wood (forest management)
Invasive species.
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and maintain favorable water
regime
Remove organic material of marshes, ditches and ponds
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and harmonize forest management with nature protection
and conservation needs (leave old, dead and dying trees, keep natural forest structure)
125
Biodiversity
Biodiversity
39. Zasavica
The site Zasavica is a typical flatland river surrounded by a
mosaic of aquatic and wetland ecosystems and with fragments
of flooded forests. Zasavica today is a tributary to the Sava, but
according to available literature data, centuries ago it was a
natural connection between the Sava and its tributary the Drina.
Today the connection with the Drina is closed.
The site represents a mosaic of natural and agricultural habitats
alongside the Zasavica River which is located on the right bank
of Sava River near the city of Sremska Mitrovica. The main
characteristic feature of the Zasavica reserve is the wide open
floodplain area with common pastures although these cover
only 9,6 % of the whole area.
Very rare species such as Aldrovanda vesiculosa and Umbra
krameri are found there. It is also important as a breeding place
for bird species such as Botaurus stellaris and Aythia nyroca.
Castor fiber has been reintroduced recently. There are several
underground springs that supply Zasavica with fresh water. The
area is well-known as the only natural site in Serbia with Umbra krameri.
The water regime in the site is highly dependent on the dam and pumping station located at the mouth
of Zasavica into Sava River. The operation of the dam is harmonized to the needs of farmers and private
landowners only. Because of this, the water level in Zasavica is low during the spring and summer to
prevent flooding of arable land. This low water table has a negative impact on the biodiversity.
The site covers a total are of 2.335 ha. The land use is the following: grasslands covers 225 ha, which is
moderately used, moderately used mixed deciduous forest cover 637 ha, intensively managed poplar
plantations cover 108 ha, extensively used waterlogged areas including river Zasavica and tributary
watercourses cover 185 ha, moderately to intensively used arable land 1.108 ha and intensively used
orchards cover 16 ha. The land ownership is divided with public, state and private ownership. In 1997,
671 ha of area were designated as Special Nature Reserve Zasavica.
The invasive plant species are: Acer negundo, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Amorpha fruticosa, Solidago
gigantea, Ailanthus altissima, Aster sp. Phytolacca americana and Fallopia x bohemica. The invasive fish
species are: Carassius auratus gibelio, Lepomis gibbosus, Ictalurus nebulosus, Pseudorasbora parva.
Table 39.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3130
0,4
3140
0,1
3150
5,3
Proposed Actions
127
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3260
0,6
3270
0,8
6430
0,1
6440
8,3
6510
3,4
91E0
5,5
91F0
3,9
Reedbeds 12,1
Proposed Actions
128
Biodiversity
Fig. 39.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Aldrovanda
vesiculosa
Umbra
krameri
Emys
orbicularis
Bombina
bombina
Triturus
dobrogicus
Botaurus
stellaris
0-2bp
Proposed Actions
129
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Ixobricuhs
minutus
20-25bp
Ciconia
nigra
0-1bp
Aythia
nyroca
15-25bp
Haliaeetus
albicilla
0-1bp
Alcedo
atthis
5-8bp
Saxicola
rubetra
20-30bp
Lanius
minor
1-3bp
Lutra lutra
Castor
fiber
Proposed Actions
130
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Proposed Actions
functioning, general
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and maintain favorable water level
management
Remove accumulated organic material from ponds, ditches and river bed where necessary
Create tourist trails and control access to locations important for habitat types and species
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and restore alluvial forests and other forest habitat types;
control cutting and removal of forest undergrowth, remove alochtonous vegetation
Manage open habitat types by mowing
Support and ensure incentives for traditional cattle breeding practice.
Enlarge areas with pastures and meadows
Specific actions and action plans for rare and endangered species.
131
Biodiversity
40. Trskovaa
The site Trskovaca represents a relatively small wetland area, which is important for wetland habitats
and for migratory birds. It is particulary important for its large and compact areas with reed as well as an
important spawning area for the fish species Tinca tinca and Carassius auratus. There are also several
underground springs, which ensure constant influx of fresh water.
Trskovaca is located nearby Platicevo, a small village in the southern part of Srem near Obedska bara.
This area is enchased from the South and West by the Sava River valley. Trskovaca includes the
meliorated areas of Trskovaca pond and the wetland complex that is a connection between Sava River
and Special Nature Reserve Obedska bara (eng. Marsh of Obed). It is an important ecological corridor,
and represents a singled out agricultural area, which is a result of interaction between human activities
and the forces of nature.
The site covers a total area of 380 ha. The dominant land use is agriculture on arable land. There is
balance between private and state ownership. There is also a minor part of area in public ownership.
About half of the site area (natural sites) is under process of protected area (PA) designation. A proposal
for the protection of this area (natural monument) has been finished.
The invasive species are: Ambrosia artemisifolia, Asclepias syriaca, Carassius gibelio, Lepomis gibbosus.
Table 40.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3150
10,4
3270
4,1
91E0
0,1
Reedbeds
17,4
Proposed Actions
132
Biodiversity
Fig. 40.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Trituris
dobrogicus
Bombina
bombina
Emys
orbicularis
Ciconia
nigra
20i
Haliaeetus
albicilla
2i
Aquila
pomarina
2i
Proposed Actions
421 - disposal of household waste, 803 infilling of ditches, dykes, ponds, pools,
marshes or pits, 853 - management of water
levels, 951 - drying out / accumulation of
organic material, 952 - eutrophication
421 - disposal of household waste, 803 infilling of ditches, dykes, ponds, pools,
marshes or pits, 850 - Modification of
hydrographic functioning, general, 951 - drying
out / accumulation of organic material, 952 eutrophication
100 - Cultivation, 810 - Drainage, 850 Modification of hydrographic functioning,
general, 950 - Biocenotic evolution, 951 drying out / accumulation of organic material
133
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Saxicola
rubetra
1-2bp
Castor
fiber
Proposed Actions
general, 950 - Biocenotic evolution, 951 drying out / accumulation of organic material
100 - Cultivation, 141 - abandonment of
pastoral systems
Water regulation
Drainage
Cultivation.
Integrate water management with nature protection needs and control water levels in order to
secure periodic flooding, keep water in ponds and ditches during late spring and summer and
avoid drainage.
Remove organic material from inland ditches and ponds
Prevent intensive forestry and agriculture
Introduce close-to-nature forestry and reforestate with native willow trees
Manage open habitat types by mowing and grazing
Define zones important for target habitat types and species
Establish management body
Develop management plan and action plans for particular habitats and species.
134
Biodiversity
41. Moroviko-bosutske ume
The site is situated in the lowland on the left bank of the Sava River and includes several tributaries on
the Northern edge while on the Westside the site borders Spacva, one of the project sites in Croatia.
The mosaic-like landscape is dominated by mixture of old lowland Pedunculate oak-ash-hornbeam
forests, with mosaics of marshes and waterlogged areas overgrown with willows, representing a natural
mosaic of high biodiversity value. The plants are mostly hygrophilous. Small grassland patches, in
different stages of succession, are most often situated within wetland complexes. Accelerated
overgrowing of meadows is mostly caused by insufficient number of wild and domestic herbivores and
by the lack of natural flooding. The site is surrounded by arable land from north and east. A few villages
are in the vicinity.
Lowland forests are dominating the landscape. On the border of the site the tributaries to the Sava
including the Bosut River are flowing adding to the landscape and biodiversity of the site. Within the site
are also a few smaller watercourses.
The largest part of the site is protected by a dyke along the Sava, but the water regime of the area is
managed through a dam in the river Bosut that is a tributary to the Sava. By doing so, flooding of the site
is not regular, but managed depending mostly upon needs of agriculture and flooding protection of
settlements and towns in the vicinity and downstream.
The total area of the site is 21.852 ha. Dominant land use is forestry. Natural or semi-natural mixed
deciduous forests cover 19.281 ha, mostly moderately managed, according to the agreed land use
criteria. Only waterlogged willow and autochthonous poplars forests in foreland, managed by Public
Enterprise for Water Management Vode Vojvodine, are extensively managed. Small watercourses,
fragmented grassland patches and forest infrastructure are included into forestry, since belonging to
forest management units. 830 ha of the site is covered by intensively managed poplar plantations.
More than 95 pct. of the site is owned by the state, predominantly covered by forests managed by the
Public Enterprise Vojvodina sume. Some land in state ownership is managed by the Public Enterprise
Vode Vojvodine, and there is also an area for hunting and fishing tourism -VU Morovic, managed by
the Serbian Armed Forces. A smaller part of the area is private agricultural land.
Only 225 ha (1 %) of the site is under protection in form of six separated Strict Nature Reserves,
presenting oldest natural forest remnants with trees up to 400 years old. The conservation of the area is
to be revised and the protected areas to be joined into one larger Nature Reserve, which is yet to be
established.
The invasive species are one of the greatest threats for the site area. The invasive plant species are
Amorpha fruticosa, Acer negundo, Fraxinus pennsylvanica. Asclepias syriaca, Ailanthus altissima,
Solidago gigantea and Gledichia triachantos. The invasive fish species are Carassius auratus gibelio,
Lepomis gibbosus, Ictalurus nebulosus and Pseudorasbora parva.
Table 41.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
3130
0,1
3150
1,5
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
X
Proposed actions
135
Biodiversity
Habitat
type
Coverage
in site
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
3260
0,1
3270
0,2
6430
0,1
6440
0,5
6450
0,1
9160
37,5
91E0
0,4
91F0
47,5
Reedbeds 4,6
Proposed actions
136
Biodiversity
Fig. 41.1. Distribution map of habitat types in site.
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Triturus
dobrogicus
Bombina
bombina
Emys
orbicularis
Ciconia
nigra
12-16bp
Haliaeetus
albicilla
6-7bp
Proposed Actions
137
Biodiversity
Focal
Species
Population
size
Conservation
Status
A
B
C
Aquila
pomarina
1bp
Alcedo
atthis
10-20bp
Dendrocopos 50-80bp
medius
Ficedula
albicollis
60-80bp
Saxicola
rubetra
Lutra lutra
Castor fiber
Proposed Actions
138
Biodiversity
Recommendations for future management and protection
Main threats on Natura 2000 focal habitat types and species:
139
Biodiversity
Sites important for biodiversity along the Sava River in Slovenia
Coverage
in site
Conservation Status
7230
30%
7140
25%
7150
1%
C
400, 850, 853, 920, 950
X
X
120, 950
120, 502, 800, 950
Other known habitat types in site (Physis code): 22.414, 22.42, 22.431, 22.432, 22.433, 24.12, 37, 37.11, 44.11, 44.13, 44.22,
44.31, 53.11, 53.1111, 53.131, 53.2121, 53.31, 54.12, 54.122.
140
Biodiversity
Table 42.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation Status
A
Alcedo atthis
P>0%
Saxicola rubetra
P>0%
Other species known in site: Anas querquedula, Crex crex, Rallus aquaticus, Myotis daubentonii, M. mystacinus, Neomys fodiens,
Bufo bufo, Hyla arborea, Rana kl. Esculenta, R. temporaria, Triturus alpestris alpestris, T. carnifex, Lacerta vivipara, Vipera
berus, Drepanocladus vernicosus, Andromeda polifolia, Drosera anglica, Drosera rotundifolia, Oxycoccus palustris, Utricularia
vulgaris.
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
141
Biodiversity
43. Sava Bohinjka z Mostnico in Ribnico
The site consists of alpine river with well preserved river dynamics and riparian habitats (gravelbeds,
willows, alder...). The site is an important fish habitat. The tributaries Motnica and Ribnica are important
fish spawning sites. Sava Bohinjka is also an important habitat for endangered fish and waterfowl
species.
The site covers a total of 455,74 ha. The territory of the site is owned by a mixture of private land
owners, state, local community and the church.
There is currently no management plan for the site. The site is designated as a Natura 2000 site and
included in the Slovenian ecological network.
The Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site: There are no Natura 2000 habitat types identified for the
site. Other habitat types known in site (Physis code): 24.12, 24.13, 37.714, 44.11, 44.2, 44.21
The Natura 2000 focal species in site: There are no Natura 2000 focal species identified for the site.
Other species known in site: Cinclus cinclus, Eudontomyzon marie, Cottus gobio, Coenonympha tullia.
Fig. 43.1. The Natura 2000 site delineation.
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
142
Biodiversity
44. Sava Dolinka od Zelencev do Hruice
The site consists of alpine river with torrential character, with well preserved natural dynamics. Well
preserved riparian vergetation consists of non-forest habitat types, forest habitat types with willows and
shrubs with Salix elegans. Larger gravelbeds lie downstream from major tributaries (Beli potok, Belca,
Pinica). Typical pionir forest of red pine and common juniper developed on gravel alluvium.
The site covers a total of 337,39 ha. The territory of the site is owned by a mixture of private land
owners, state, local community and the church
There is currently no management plan for the site. The site is designated as a Natura 2000 site and
included in the Slovenian ecological network.
The Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site : There are no Natura 2000 habitat types identified for the
site. Other habitat types known in site (Physis code): 24.12, 24.2, 44.11, 44.22.
The Natura 2000 focal species in site: There are no Natura 2000 focal species identified for the site.
Other species known in site: Charadrius dubius, Cottus gobio, Elaphoidella elaphoides, Hyponephele
lycaon, Coenonympha tullia.
Fig. 44.1. The Natura 2000 site delineation.
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
143
Biodiversity
45. Sava od Mavi do Save
The general site character is riparian vegetation and important habitat for fish species. The main quality
and importance of the site is that it is a relatively natural segment of the Sava River, though moderately
poluted. The site is still an important habitat for Cottus gobio, Leuciscuss souffia, Rutilus pigus, Hucho
hucho and Eudontomyzon sp. Records include records for Vertigo angustior. The site has typical riparian
vegetation. The site is also important for the coherency of the network.
The site is regarded as vulnerable due to improper water management measures, water pollution,
drastic changes in water regime (making dams). The riparian vegetation is threatened by invasive plants.
The site covers a total area of 3.229,39 ha. The ownership of the site is a mixture of private land owners,
State, local community and the Church. There is currently no management plan for the site. The site is
designated under Natura 2000 and included in the Slovenian ecological network.
Table 45.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in sites
Habitat type
Coverage
in site
Conservation Status
A
91E0
26%
890
91L0
22%
190
9180
1%
3240
2%
6210
5%
6510
1%
Other Natura 2000 habitat types known in site: 6110, and Physis habitat types known in site: 24.2, 34.3, 41.2A2, 44.1, 34.322,
34.323, 37.7, 38.221, 38.222, 44.3, 44.4, 24.52
144
Biodiversity
Table 45.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation Status
A
Eudontomyzon spp.
P<2%
Hucho hucho
P>15%
X
X
Leuciscus souffia
P<2%
110, 120, 130, 170, 300, 401, 420, 500, 510, 600, 870,
960
110, 120, 401, 420, 500, 510
Alcedo atthis
Sterna hirundo
Haliaeetus albicilla
Ciconia ciconia
Ficedula albicollis
Lanius minor
Saxicola rubetra
Other species known in site: Carabus variolosus, Leuciscus souffia, Rutilus pigus, Vertigo angustior, Accipiter gentilis, A. nisus,
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus, A. arundinaceus, A. scirpaceus, Actitis hypoleucos, Alauda arvensis, Anas clypeata, A. crecca, A.
querquedula, A. strepera, Anthus pratensis, Ardea purpurea, Ardeola ralloides, Athene noctua, Aythya ferina, A. fuligula, A.
nyroca, Bombycilla garrulous, Buteo buteo, Carduelis cannabina, C. carduelis, C. chloris, C. spinus, Charadrius dubius, Chlidonias
hybridus, C. leucopterus, C. niger, C. nigra, Circus aeruginosus, Columba livia, C. oenas, Corvus corone corone, C. frugilegus,
Coturnix coturnix, Dendrocopos leucotos, D. major, D. minor, Dryocopus martius, Egretta garzetta, Emberiza citrinella, Emberiza
schoeniclus, Falco peregrines, F. subbuteo, F. tinnunculus, Galerida cristata, Gallinago gallinago, Ixobrychus minutus, Jynx
torquilla, Lanius collurio, Larus cachinnans, Larus ridibundus, Locustella fluviatilis, Luscinia megarhynchos, Miliaria calandra,
Milvus migrans, Motacilla flava, Nycticorax nycticorax, Oenanthe oenanthe, Oriolus oriolus, Pandion haliaetus, Perdix perdix,
Pernis apivorus, Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Phoenicurus ochruros, P. phoenicurus, Picus canus, P. viridis, Platalea leucorodia,
Podiceps cristatus, P. grisegena, P. nigricollis, Rallus aquaticus, Remiz pendulinus, Saxicola torquata, Serinus serinus, Sterna
caspia, Streptopelia turtur, Strix aluco, Sylvia communis, Tachybaptus ruficollis, Tringa glareola, Tringa ochropus, Tringa
tetanus, Troglodytes troglodytes, Turdus torquatus, Upupa epops, Vanellus vanellus, Hyla arborea, Bombina variegata, Rana
dalmatina, R. kl. Esculenta, R. lessonae, R. ridibunda, R. temporaria, Triturus carnifex, T. vulgaris, Bufo bufo, Cottus gobio,
Aeshna grandis, Epitheca bimaculata, Gomphus vulgatissimus, Libellula fulva, Lycaena dispar, Mellicta aurelia, M. britomartis,
Myotis emarginatus, Nymphaea alba, Orchis palustris.
Integrate water management with nature protection needs, including measures for water
quality and water dynamics
Remove invasive species
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
145
Biodiversity
46. Sava od Radovljice do Kranja
The site is a relatively undisturbed and natural segment of the Sava River located North-West from
Kranj. It is an important habitat for the species Hucho hucho and Cottus gobio. The site consists of
alluvial vegetation.
The quality and importance of the site is connecte to being one of the rare preserved segments of the
Sava River in the upper middle stream. Still, the site contains natural processes of the river with alluvial
gravel and more or less natural vegetation.
The site is vulnable to the current inappropriate water management with gravel extraction and water
pollution.
The site covers a total of 877,91 ha. The site has a mixed ownership of privat land owners, State, local
community and church.
There is currently no management plan for the site. The site is designated as a Natura 2000 site and
included in the Slovenian ecological network.
Table 46.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat type
Coverage
in site
Conservation Status
91E0
9%
91L0
18%
3220
10%
3230
1%
300, 852
3240
10%
890
X
190
Other Physis habitat types known in site: 24.12, 24.2, 37.714, 41.81, 42.54, 44.22, 44.31, 53.31, 54.121, 54.221.
146
Biodiversity
Table 46.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Hucho hucho
P<2%
Alcedo atthis
Conservation tatus
A
110, 120, 130, 170, 300, 401, 420, 500, 510, 600,
870, 960
-
Other species known in site: Callimorpha quadripunctaria, Cottus gobio, Actitis hypoleucos, Alauda arvensis, Alectoris graeca,
Bonasa bonasia, Mergus merganser, Scolopax rusticola, Leuciscus souffia.
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
147
Biodiversity
47. Sava Bohinjka in Sava Dolinka
The site include the confluence of the two rivers Sava Bohinjka and Sava Dolinka with an exceptional
diversity of water and riparian habitats with wetlands, meanders, gravelbeds and many others. The site
holds habitats of many rare and endangered plant and animal species.
The site covers a total area of 936,54 ha. The site has a mixed ownership of private land owners, State,
Local Community and the Church.
There is currently no management plan for the site. The site is designated as a Natura 2000 site and
included in the Slovenian ecological network.
Table 47.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat type
Coverage
in site
7210
5%
7220
1%
7230
1%
Conservation Status
A
Other Physis habitat types known in site: 24.12, 24.2, 24.221, 37.714, 41.81, 42.54, 44.22, 44.31, 53.31, 54.121, 54.221.
Population
size
<120
Conservation Status
A
B
X
Bombina variegata
Hucho hucho
Other species known in site: Callimorpha quadripunctaria, Austropotamobius torrentium, Coenagrion ornatum, Ardea cinerea,
Charadrius alexandrines, Cinclus cinclus, Dendrocopos major, Falco peregrines, F. subbuteo, F. tinnunculus, Ficedula albicollis,
Jynx torquilla, Lanius collurio, Nycticorax nycticorax, Oriolus oriolus, Phoenicurus phoenicurus, Picus canus, P. viridis, Serinus
serinus, Sylvia borin, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, R. kl. Esculenta, R. ridibunda, R. temporaria, Triturus alpestris, T. vulgaris,
Bufo bufo, Anguis fragilis, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe longissima, Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, L. vivipara, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata,
148
Biodiversity
Podarcis muralis, Vipera ammodytes, V. berus, Cottus gobio, Eudontomyzon mariae, Thymallus thymallus, Melitaea diamina,
Cerambyx scopoli, Lucanus cervus, Prionus coriarius, Procerus gigas, Schoenus ferrugineus, Liparis loeselii, Drosera rotundifolia,
Cladium mariscus.
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
149
Biodiversity
48. Julijske Alpe
The site covers almost the entire territory of the Julianne Alpes and contains well preserved and
developed mountain ecosystems of the South-Eastern calcareous alpes from alpine valleys up to the
mountain tops. The site holds the source of Sava Bohinjka.
The main quality and importance of the site is linked to the very well preserved alpine ecosystems with
natural processes in place. The site holds the greatest number of caves, more than 800, in Slovenia
though not rich in troglobiont fauna. All typical alpine ecosystems exist in the site and are well
developed such as alpine grasslands, chasmophyte vegetation and calcareous screes. Outstanding
values are the dwarf pine complexes, black pine pioneer forests and limestone pavements. The site
holds the main part of the habitat of the species Erebia calcarea and one of key areas for the endemic
species Campanula zoysii, while the Soa River in the site has the main provenience for Salmo
marmoratus.
The main problems for the site are the long distance air pollution and uncontrolled mountaineering in
high mountain area. In the alpine valleys, there are problems with abandonment or intensification of
grasslands, uncontrolled urbanisation due to development of infrastructure and capacities for tourists.
The site covers a total area of 115.551,97 ha. The ownership of the site is a mixture of private land
owners, State, Local Community and the Church.
The site is designated as a Natura 2000 site and included in the Slovenian ecological network. Most of
the site is included in Triglav National Park, first protected in 1924 and with existing area from 1981. The
site is managed by the Triglav National Park authority.
Table 48.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat type
Coverage
in site
Conservation Status
3140
1%
6430
1%
6510
5%
7140
1%
120, 950
B
X
Other Natura 2000 habitat types known in site: 4070, 91K0, 9530, 3220, 3230, 3240, 4060, 6110, 6150, 6170, 6210, 6230, 6520,
8120, 8160, 8210, 8220, 8240, 8310.
150
Biodiversity
Table 48.2. Natura 2000 focal species in site.
Focal Species
Population
size
Conservation Status
A
B
X
Alcedo atthis
1-3
Aquila chrysaetos
10-12
Lanius collurio
100-300
Saxicola rubetra
100-300
Other species known in site: Aegolius funereus, Alectoris graeca saxatilis, Aquilegia bertolonii, Bonasa bonasia, Campanula
zoysii, Cottus gobio, Cypripedium calceolus, Dryocopus martius, Erebia calcaria, Eryngium alpinum, Eudontomyzon spp., Falco
peregrines, Ficedula parva, Glaucidium passerinum, Gyps fulvus, Lagopus mutus helveticus, Lutra lutra, Lynx lynx, Moehringia
villosa, Monticola saxatilis, Osmoderma eremite, Picoides tridactylus, Rosalia alpine, Salmo marmoratus, Tetrao tetrix tetrix,
Tetrao urogallus, Ursus arctos, Barbastella barbastellus, Bombina variegate, Dicranum viride, Euphydryas aurinia, Gladiolus
palustris, Morimus funereus, Upupa epops, Rhinolophus hipposideros, Barbus meridionalis, Barbus plebejus, Leuciscus souffia,
Austropotamobius pallipes, Austropotamobius torrentium, Stemmacantha rhapontica, Leontodon montanus, Androsace
Helvetica.
Develop action plans for the Natura 2000 habitat types and species, which the site is being
designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status for these Natura 2000 habitat
types and species.
151
Biodiversity
49. Sava od Rade do dravne meje
The site consists of the lower part of the Sava River with extensive floodplains. The area is rich in water
and riparian habitat types including riverbed with gravelbads and eroded walls, temporarly flooded
tributaries, permanent meanders, wetlands and fragments of lowland flooded forests. The site holds
important habitats for many rare and endangered bird, fish and amphibian species, especially for Aspius
aspius, Barbus meridionalis, Cobitis elongata, Cobitis taenia, Gobio uranoscopus, Rhodeus sericeus
amarus and Zingel streber.
The site covers a total area of 2.850,94 ha. The ownership of the site is a mixture of private land owners,
State, Local Community and Church.
There is currently no management plan for the site. The site is designated as a Natura 2000 site and
included in the Slovenian ecological network.
Table 49.1. Natura 2000 focal habitat types in site.
Habitat type
Coverage
in site
6210
30%
6510
30%
Conservation Status
A
Other habitat types (Physis code): 34.322, 34.323, 37.7, 38.221, 38.222, 44.3, 44.4, 41.1C, 41.2A1.
Population
size
Conservation Status
A
Aythya nyroca
P>0%
Ardeola ralloides
P>0%
Phalacrocorax pygmeus
P>0%
152
Biodiversity
Lanius collurio
P>0%
Lanius minor
P>0%
Ciconia nigra
P>0%
Haliaeetus albicilla
P>0%
Saxicola rubetra
P>0%
Ciconia ciconia
P>0%
Nycticorax nycticorax
P>0%
Platalea leucorodia
P>0%
Chlidonias hybridus
P>0%
Sterna hirundo
P>0%
Ficedula albicollis
P>0%
Alcedo atthis
Other known species in site: Aspius aspius, Barbus meridionalis, Cobitis elongate, C. taenia, Gobio uranoscopus, Rhodeus
sericeus amarus, Zingel streber, Cucujus cinnaberinus, Osmoderma eremite, Accipiter nisus, Acrocephalus schoenobaenus, A.
arundinaceus, A. scirpaceus, Actitis hypoleucos, Alauda arvensis, Anas clypeata, A. crecca, A. querquedula, A. strepera, Anthus
pratensis, Ardea purpurea, Asio otus, Athene noctua, Aythya farina, A. fuligula, Bombycilla garrulous, Buteo buteo, Carduelis
cannabina, C. carduelis, C. chloris, C. spinus, Charadrius dubius, Chlidonias leucopterus, C. niger, Circus aeruginosus, Columba
livia, C. oenas, Corvus corone corone, C. frugilegus, Coturnix coturnix, Dendrocopos leucotos, D. major, D. minor, Dryocopus
martius, Egretta garzetta, Emberiza citrinella, E. schoeniclus, Falco peregrines, F. subbuteo, F. tinnunculus, Galerida cristata,
Gallinago gallinago, Gallinula chloropus, Ixobrychus minutes, Jynx torquilla, Larus cachinnans, L. ridibundus, Locustella
fluviatilis, Luscinia megarhynchos, Merops apiaster, Miliaria calandra, Milvus migrans, Motacilla flava, Oenanthe oenanthe,
Oriolus oriolus, Pandion haliaetus, Perdix perdix, Pernis apivorus, Phoenicurus ochruros, P. phoenicurus, Picus canus, P. viridis,
Podiceps cristatus, P. grisegena, P. nigricollis, Rallus aquaticus, Remiz pendulinus, Riparia riparia, Saxicola torquata, Serinus
serinus, Sterna caspia, Streptopelia turtur, Strix aluco, Sylvia communis, Tachybaptus ruficollis, Tringa glareola, T. ochropus, T.
totanus, Troglodytes troglodytes, Turdus torquatus, Upupa epops, Vanellus vanellus, Bombina variegate, Bufo bufo, Hyla
arborea, Rana dalmatina, R. kl. Esculenta, R. lessonae, R. ridibunda, R. temporaria, Triturus carnifex, T. vulgaris, Lacerta agilis,
Natrix tessellata, Barbus barbus, Chondrostoma nasus, Silurus glanis, Aeshna grandis, Cercion lindenii, Epitheca bimaculata,
Gomphus vulgatissimus, Libellula fulva, Somatochlora flavomaculata, Lycaena dispar, Mellicta aurelia, M. britomartis, Najas
marina, Nymphaea alba, Orchis palustris, Sagittaria sagittifolia, Trapa natans.
Develop management plan for site and action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and
species, which the site is being designated for, in order to secure favourable conservation status
for these Natura 2000 habitat types and species.
153
Biodiversity
B. Analysis of threats and current conservation status of target Natura
2000 habitat types and species
The Conservation Status of the target Natura habitat types and species
Based on the site results for the target Natura 2000 habitat types and species on observed conservation
status, an overall analysis for all sites of current conservation status of the target Natura 2000 habitat
types and species are presented in the two tables beneath (Deliverable B5).
Table 50.1. Overview of current conservation status of the target Natura 2000 habitat types
Habitat type
Code
Conservation status
(No. Of sites)
B
C
Unknown
1530
3130
3140
3150
3260
3270
6430
6440
6450
6510
7140
7230
9160
91E0
91F0
91G0
91L0
Reedbeds
2
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
3
4
3
8
4
22
3
13
4
13
7
15
3
11
11
25
13
6
3
2
1
8
2
3
3
5
2
2
4
4
1
7
3
3
3
-
1
1
-
7,1
5,3
14,3
5,9
5,0
25,0
21,4
14,3
8,6
20,0
60,0
Conservation status
(%)
B
C
Unknown
- 100,0
50,0
50,0
66,7
33,3
78,6
10,7
50,0
50,0
68,4
26,3
57,1
28,6
76,5
11,8
63,6
36,4
75,0
20,0
75,0
78,6
78,6
7,1
71,4
20,0
65,0
15,0
66,7
33,3
50,0
50,0
40,0
-
3,6
5,9
-
No of sites with
habitat type present
No
% of total
1
16
6
28
6
19
7
17
11
20
4
14
14
35
20
9
6
5
2,0
32,7
12,2
57,1
12,2
38,8
14,3
34,7
22,4
40,8
8,2
28,6
28,6
71,4
40,8
18,4
12,2
10,2
154
Biodiversity
In the six sites, which hold the habitat type 3260, none of the Water courses of plain to montane levels
with Ranunculion fluitantis & Callitricho-Batrachian vegetation were in favourable conservation status,
50% in relatively good conservation status and 50% in unfavourable conservation status.
In the 19 sites, which hold the habitat type 3270, 5,3% of the Muddy river banks with Chenopodion rubri
p.p. and Bidention p.p. vegetation were in favourable conservation status, 68,4% in relative good
conservation status and 26,3% in unfavourable conservation status.
The two river habitat types were identified in 25 cases in the 49 sites. In only 1 case, these river habitat
types were observed to be in favourable conservation status. In 16 cases, the rivers were in relative
good conservation status, but in 8 cases, the rivers were in unfavourable conservation status.
The meadows
In the seven sites, which hold the habitat type 6430, 14,3% of the Hydrophilous tall-herb fringe
communities of plains and of montane to alpine levels were in favourable conservation status, 57,1% in
relative good conservation status and 28,6% in unfavourable conservation status.
In the 17 sites, which hold the habitat type 6440, 5,9% of the Alluvial meadows of river valleys of the
Cnidion dubii, were in favourable conservation status, 76,5% in relative good conservation status and
11,8% in unfavourable conservation status.
In the 11 sites, which hold the habitat type 6450, none of the Northern boreal meadows of river valleys
were in favourable conservation status, 63,6% in relative good conservation status and 36,4% in
unfavourable conservation status.
In the 20 sites, which hold the habitat type 6510, 5% of the Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus
pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis) were in favourable conservation status, 75% in relative good
conservation status and 20% in unfavourable conservation status.
The four meadow habitat types were identified in 55 cases in the 49 sites. In only 2 cases, the meadows
were observed to be in an favourable conservation status. In 39 cases, the meadows were observed to
be in relative good conservation status, but in 12 cases, the meadows were observed in unfavourable
conservation status.
The reedbeds
The reedbeds were observed in five sites of which the reedbeds were in excellent conservation status in
three sites and in relative good conservation status in two sites. None were found to be in unfavourable
conservation status.
The forests
In the 14 sites, which have the habitat type 9160, 14,3% of the Sub-Atlantic and medio-European oak or
oak-hornbeam forests of the Carpinion betuli were in favourable conservation status, 78,6% in relative
good conservation status and 7,1% in unfavourable conservation status.
In the 35 sites, which have the habitat type *91E0, 8,6% of the Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and
Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) were in favourable conservation status,
71,4% in relative good conservation status and 20% in unfavourable conservation status.
155
Biodiversity
In the 20 sites, which have the habitat type 91F0, 20% of the Riparian mixed forests of Quercus robur,
Ulmus laevis and U. minor, Fraxinus excelsior or F. angustifolia, along great rivers (Ulmenion minoris)
were in favourable conservation status, 65% in relative good conservation status and 15% in
unfavourable conservation status.
In the 9 sites, which have the habitat type *91G0, none of the Pannonic woods with Quercus petraea
and Carpinus betulus were in favourable conservation status, 66,7% in relative good conservation status
and 33,3% in unfavourable conservation status.
In the 6 sites, which have the habitat type 91L0, none of the Ilirian oak-hornbeam forests (Erythroniocarpinion) were in favourable conservation status, 50% in relative good conservation status and 50% in
unfavourable conservation status.
The five forest habitat types were identified in 84 cases in total in the 49 sites. In 7 cases, the forests are
observed to be in an favourable conservation status. In 58 cases, the forests were observed to be in
relative good conservation status, but in 17 cases, the forests were observed in unfavourable
conservation status.
Table 50.2. Overview of current conservation status of the target Natura 2000 species
Conservation status
(No of sites)
Species
A
Conservation status
(%)
Unknown
No of sites
with species present
Unknown
No.
% of total
Birds
Alcedo atthis
22
6,3
68,8
15,6
9,4
32
65,3
Aquila pomarina
80,0
20,0
10
20,4
Ardea cinerea
21
84,0
12,0
4,0
25
51,0
Ardea purpurea
100,0
2,0
Ardeola ralloides
12
85,7
7,1
7,1
14
28,6
Aythya nyroca
72,7
9,1
18,2
11
22,4
Botaurus stellaris
50,0
50,0
4,1
Chlidonias hybridus
83,3
16,7
12,2
Ciconia ciconia
7,7
61,5
7,7
23,1
13
26,5
Ciconia nigra
16
12,5
66,7
20,8
24
49,0
Crex crex
100,0
16,3
Dendrocopus medius
16
9,5
76,2
14,3
21
42,9
Egretta alba
12
85,7
7,1
7,1
14
28,6
Egretta garzetta
100,0
2,0
Ficedula albicollis
13,3
60,0
13,3
13,3
15
30,6
Halliaetus albicilla
15
16,7
62,5
4,2
16,7
24
49,0
Ixobrichus minutus
100,0
4,1
Lanius collurio
10
71,4
14,3
14,3
14
28,6
Lanius minor
75,0
25,0
16,3
Nycticorax nycticorax
13
5,6
72,2
11,1
11,1
18
36,7
Phalacrocorax pygmeus
60,0
40,0
10,2
Platalea leucorodia
100,0
14,3
Saxicola rubetra
16
69,6
13,0
17,4
23
46,9
Sterna albifrons
50,0
50,0
8,2
Sterna hirundo
10
71,4
14,3
14,3
14
28,6
Plants
Aldrovanda vesiculosa
100,0
2,0
Nymphea alba
100,0
4,1
Marsilea quadrifolia
10,0
80,0
10,0
10
20,4
Amphibians
156
Biodiversity
Bombina bombina
30,8
53,8
15,4
13
26,5
Bombina variegata
28,6
57,1
14,3
14,3
Triturus dobrogicus
37,5
37,5
25,0
16,3
12
30,0
60,0
10,0
20
40,8
Eudontomyzon spp.
33,3
66,7
6,1
Hucho hucho
66,7
33,3
6,1
Leuciscus souffia
50,0
50,0
4,1
Umbra krameri
66,7
33,3
6,1
Castor fiber
11
21,4
78,6
14
28,6
Barbastella barbastellus
33,3
66,7
6,1
Lutra lutra
12
63,2
21,1
15,8
19
38,8
Miniopterus schreibersi
100,0
8,2
Myotis spp.
20,0
80,0
10,2
Rhinolophus spp.
100,0
8,2
Reptiles
Emys orbicularis
Fish
Mammals
Biodiversity
In the eight sites, which have the bird species Crex crex, none were in favourable conservation status,
100% in relative good conservation status and none in unfavourable conservation status.
In the 14 sites, which have the bird species Lanius collurio, none were in favourable conservation status,
71,4% in relative good conservation status and 14,3% in unfavourable conservation status.
In the eight sites, which have the bird species Lanius minor, none were in favourable conservation
status, 75% in relative good conservation status and none in unfavourable conservation status. For 25%,
the conservation status was not defined.
These four species depending on open habitat types were identified in 53 cases in total in the 49 sites. In
none of the cases were the species observed in favourable conservation status. In 40 cases, the species
were observed to be in relative good conservation status, but still in five cases, the species were
observed in unfavourable conservation status. In eight case, the conservation status was not defined.
158
Biodiversity
The Analysis of Threats and Impacts for Natura 2000 habitat types and species
Based on the observed threats and impacts for the target Natura 2000 habitat types and species on site
level, an overall analysis for all sites of the main threats and impact are presented in the table beneath
(Deliverable B5).
Table 50.3. Analysis of threats and impacts on the Natura 2000 habitat types and species on site level.
Relevant for
sites
Relevance
Pct., %
27
23
14
12
10
3
37
55,1
46,9
28,6
24,5
20,4
6,1
75,5
26
12
9
53,1
24,5
18,4
23
10
46,9
20,4
20
15
12
4
40,8
30,6
24,5
8,2
Invasive species
Invasion of non-native species
21
42,9
23
16
8
7
3
2
46,9
32,7
16,3
14,3
6,1
4,1
159
Biodiversity
C. Evaluation of the network of sites along the Sava River
As an evaluation of the network of sites and their ability to secure connectivity and coherency for the
target habitat types and species along the Sava, the habitat types and species are evaluated in groups
for water, open land and forests beneath (Deliverable B6).
Biodiversity
The main human induced activities identified for the open habitat types and their species, which
imposes a threat against securing favourable conservation status for these habitat types and species are
all related to the agricultural practise carried out on the grasslands and pastures, such as changes in
traditional agricultural practices, abandonment of pastoral system, use of fertilisers and pesticides and
inappropriate mowing or grazing for the specific habitat types.
In order to stop further deterioration of the sites and to secure the favourable conservation status for
the habitat types and species, the call for actions presented beneath in section D must be addressed.
161
Biodiversity
Proposals for site restoration plans to restore degraded target habitat types and improve conditions for
target species have been elaborated for these sites as part of this project (Deliverable B10). The
restoration plans are presented in separate technical report.
162
Biodiversity
D. Recommendations for Actions to secure the network of sites
Current situation
The 16 Bosnian-Herzegovinian sites, which are included in our proposed network of sites along the Sava
River, are currently not protected under any national protection scheme. Only one site is a Ramsar site.
For the most biologically important sites, proposals for protection are under development. No official
Bosnian-Herzegovinian ecological network is being established. Projects such as the Sava project
contributes to preparing documentation for future initiatives, both in relation to achieving protection
under national legislation, to preparing for European Natura 2000 and to prepare for establishing
ecological networks. For Bosnia-Herzegovina, the municipalities and local physical planning units are
currently important stakeholders.
The 16 Croatian sites, which are included in our proposed network of sites along the Sava River, are all
included in the Croatian ecological network, CRONEN. The sites will furthermore be proposed as
European Natura 2000 sites. Croatia is currently harmonizing national legislation with EU legislation on
nature protection. Thus, the Croatian sites are all planned for falling under Croatians obligations to
implement Natura 2000. For Croatia, the site managers and national authorities responsible for the
Croatian ecological network and for Natura 2000 implementation are important stakeholders.
The 9 Serbian sites, included in our proposed network of sites along the Sava River, are partly and partly
not under national protection. For the sites without any protection status, proposals for protection are
under development. No official Serbian Ecological Network is being established, but projects such as the
Sava project contribute to formulating future initiatives on establishing ecological networks and
preparing for the Natura 2000. Serbia is currently preparing for harmonizing national legislation with EU
legislation on nature protection. For Serbia, the site managers are important stakeholders.
The 8 Slovenian sites, included in our proposed network of sites along the Sava River, are all included in
the Slovenian Ecological Network and selected for designation as Natura 2000 sites.
Recommendations for actions to secure Natura 2000 habitat types and species
Based on the analised threats, the current conservation status of the target Natura 2000 habitat types
and species and the site specific recommendations given per site, generic recommendations for the
network of sites have been elaborated to secure FCS for Natura 2000 habitat types and species
(Deliverable B7). These recommendations are presented beneath.
Tabel 50.4. Recommendation for actions to secure FCS of target Natura 2000 habitat types and species
Recommendations for actions
Site protection and management
Relevance of total
49 sites
100%
Secure favourable conservation status of Natura 2000 habitat types and species through
establishing/continuing protection of the sites under relevant national legislations
Establish legal protection status for sites currently not under protection and for sites in need of stronger
protection
Develop site management plan with action plan for the Natura 2000 habitat types and species relevant for
the sites and with emphasis on conserving wetlands
Implement restoration measures for remaining wetland habitat types, where relevant
Implement specific measures for protection of the rare and endangered species, where relevant
163
Biodiversity
Recommendations for actions
Relevance of total
Prepare zoning scheme defining zones important for target habitat types and species and buffer zones.
Establish site management bodies of relevant local and central organisations responsible for ensuring
implementation of management plan
Capacity build established management bodies for protected areas to ensure implementation of
management plans
35 sites
71,4%
Secure incorporation of nature protection objectives and measures into the Integrated River Basin
Management plan for the Sava River
Stop drainage of wetlands and secure natural water levels and water dynamics, including periodic flooding
32 sites
65,3%
Implement close-to-nature forestry and harmonise forest management with nature protection needs
30 sites
61,2%
Promote and educate local people on agricultural practice harmonised with nature protection with focus on
wetland meadow and grassland habitat types and species
Control, reduce and/or prohibit pesticides and/or fertilizer in sites under protection
Secure incentives, financial support and measures for traditional livestock farming and pastoral system
Manage and maintain open habitats by mowing and/or grassing in line with requirements of the relevant
grassland and meadow habitat types
16 sites
32,7%
31 sites
63,3%
Find ways to balance urbanization and infrastructure development within sites in cooperation with
authorities responsible for physical planning
Improve waste management system and address responsible bodies to remove waste from sites
Stimulate traditional fish farming in sites with fish ponds and implement principles for sustainable fish
production
Remove mines
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Biodiversity
Recommendations for managing the network of sites and maintaining the
transborder cooperation
A coordinating Sava biodiversity Platform/Initiative/Network should be established with participation of
NGOs, site managers, managers of protected areas, institutes for nature conservation, forest
management organizations, water management organisations and other relevant organisations. This
initiative should coordinate and exchange information on ongoing initiatives related to the network of
sites along the Sava River.
The managers of protected areas should come together on an annual base to exchange information and
agree on joint actions and strategies to secure a coherent approach to the protection and management
of the Sava River and the protected areas along the river, to develop joint projects and strategies and to
react on plans and projects that might be in conflict with the protected areas.
This Sava biodiversity Initiative could be initiated by one of the protected areas (eg. Lonsjko Polje) and
should also include the Institutes for Nature Conservation, NGOs, and other stakeholders to participate.
A clear link with the Sava Basin Commission should be secured in order to secure the needs to take
biologically important areas into consideration in the integrated river basin management plan and other
issues related to meeting the obligations of the EU Water Framework Directive and EU Habitats and
Birds Directives. The Sava Basin Commission could play a role in the initiative but given the interest of
the Commission in issues related to biodiversity protection this might not be the most obvious choice. It
is important to strive towards an organisational structure that addresses the challenges of Integrated
Land and Water Management in conformity with modern approaches to river basin management.
The Stakeholder Council for the Middle Posovina established in Lonjsko Polje could be a base to build
upon to strengthen wider cooperation between stakeholders along the Sava River.
Another option is that the Institutes for Nature Conservation from Serbia, Slovenia and Croatia plus
CEPRES and the relevant institute in Republica Srepska sign a Letter of Intent in which they agree to
exchange data and support the coherent management and protection of the network of protected areas
along the river. Based on this LoI, the Institutes can also share experiences and know how in various
aspects of nature protection, monitoring and management like the implementation of the Birds and
Habitats Directives and the elaboration of the Integrated River Basin Management Plan for the Sava in
line with the EU Water Framework Directive.
An important element of the LoI would also be the continued management of the data base and to
make sure the information will be up to date The LoI between the Institutes could include calling
together the managers of the protected areas and other stakeholders on an annual base.
An important task to be addressed in the cooperation along the Sava is to draw up and implement an
action plan to control the expansion of invasive alien species as a dominant and urgent issue along the
Sava River. Transborder cooperation along the Sava in the efforts to control the encroachment of
invasive species is a prerequisite.
Two concrete possibilities for increased cooperation at site level are the possible designation of two
cross border protected areas. These are:
Raa (BiH) and Ue Drine (RS) (both sites are not yet protected and in need of restoration)
MorovikoBosutske ume (RS) and Spavanski bazen (HR).
Proposals for site restoration plans to restore degraded target habitat types and improve conditions for
target species have been elaborated for these sites as part of this project (Deliverable B10).
Another aspect on which cooperation could be improved is the breeding and re-introduction of critically
endangered rare and endangered autochthonous cattle breeds like the Turopolje pig and the Slavonian
Podolian cattle. Originally these breeds occurred along the Sava in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovian and
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Biodiversity
Serbia. Croatia has a well developed policy to support the introduction of these species while also in
Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina farmers can get government support when using these species.
Setting up a joint program and establishing a common gene base or exchanging sperm and/or eggs
would significantly contribute to the re-introduction and protection of these important elements of
agro-biodiversity.
BiH does not have a comprehensive system of protected areas. Only Bardaa is protected under the
Ramsar Convention. There are plans to designate new protected areas.
To secure the protection of the sites it is important to improve the application of the Appropriate
Assessment as required by article 6 of the Habitats Directive. As long as the HD is not a legally binding
instrument the principles of article 6 should be applied as much as possible.
The Sava River itself is identified as a potential Natura 2000 site in Croatia. Being the connecting
backbone of the network of sites, the Sava River is highly valuable for securing the connectivity between
the sites. It therefore important to formulate IRBM measures that help to secure and maintain this
connecting role.
To ensure effective integrated river basin management planning it is necessary to sustain the results of
the Life III project Protection of Biodiversity of the Sava River Basin Floodplains, and proposed the
following concrete actions:
to establish a Stakeholder Council for the Sava River, by extending the existing Stakeholder
Council for the Middle Posavina region;
to establish a network of protected areas; the managers of protected areas to regularly meet
and exchange information on the protection and management of PAs;
to strengthen the cooperation of he Institutes for Nature Conservation from Croatia, Serbia,
Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina (CEPRES, Institute for the Protection of Cultural, Historical
and Natural Heritage of the Republic of Srpska) by signing an agreement on:
o the maintenance of the Sava River database, currently hosted by the State Institute for
Nature Conservation (Croatia);
o the designation of additional protected areas to support the establishment of an
ecological network along the Sava River, particularly taking transboundary context into
account;
o the exchange of scientific data and the results of habitats and species monitoring along
the Sava River;
o the joint support to the elaboration of the Integrated River Basin Management Plan for
the Sava River Basin;
o the promotion of the protection and re-introduction of traditional autochthonous cattle
breeds wherever applicable;
o the elaboration of an Action Plan to halt the dispersal of invasive species.
to elaborate a joint plan for sustainable tourism development along the Sava River, in close
cooperation with the government bodies responsible for tourism, and to include the plan into
the work of the protected areas network, as well as market the Sava River and its protected
areas as a destination for nature friendly tourism.
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