Project acronym: VEZI NARAVE (2.170.821,80 EUR ERDF)
Lead Partner: Občina Grosuplje
Project Partners: Občina Rogaška Slatina, Zavod Republike Slovenije za varstvo narave, Javna ustanova Nacionalni park Risnjak, Grad Vrbovsko, Udruga Hyla, Javna ustanova za upravljanje zaštićenim dijelovima prirode Krapinsko-zagorske županije
The project TIES OF NATURE addresses the challenge of conserving and restoring biotic diversity for future generations and raising awareness of the impact nature has on the well-being of man. In order to reach this objective, the project will implement activities addressing: the lack of joint harmonised cross-border measures for the improvement of target species in poor condition; the lack of inter-sectoral collaboration in the introduction of modern, sustainable methods of natural resource management; poor awareness of the relevance of nature conservation and benefits that conserved nature has for the long-term quality of life and for preventing natural risks in an area.
The project’s main objective is to ensure the durability of the conservation and restoration of target species in Natura 2000 areas of the rivers Sotla and Kolpa, Risnjak National Park, the Radensko polje area, and the Kamačnik canyon. The partnership was composed so as to ensure that species and measures planned for improving their state of conservation are dispersed across comparable areas in Slovenia and Croatia. By implementing 5 programmes of measures consisting of actual demonstration activities in nature covering a total surface area of 3,159 ha, we will improve the state of conservation of the otter, stag beetle, great capricorn beetle, marsh fritillary, large copper, amphibians. This selection of charismatic species represents an excellent platform for communicating the intrinsic value of nature to the widest public, which is why they will serve as a basis for communicating ecosystem services. The project strives to set up sustainable structures for the long-term conservation of biodiversity. By involving stakeholders in the implementation of nature preservation measures and in the development and implementation of content for the interpretation of nature, the project will bring nature protection and care for nature closer to the wider public. An innovative education programme will familiarise 190 individuals with the practical aspect of Natura 2000 management and ecosystem services. An important contribution to long-term nature conservation is the setup of the network of TIES OF NATURE points intended to raise awareness on the importance of nature, with the objective to show people the often invisible links between ecosystems and man’s connection to them. Two nature protection centres will be set up—Šica in Radensko polje and Sotla in Rogaška Slatina—and two interpretative access points—one in the area of the Zelenjak natural monument by the river Sotla, and the other in the Kamečnik canyon. The inclusive and integral approach to biodiversity conservation is an innovation in this cross-border area. The TIES OF NATURE project is thus opening new opportunities for the society to gradually but permanently change its attitude to nature protection and conservation, and for its recognising nature’s key role in ensuring the well-being of future generations.
