Mapping, categorising, and garnering public support for the removal of 27 barriers within its Korana River in Croatia.
The Korana River, coursing through a vast catchment area of over 2200km2 in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a vital ecological artery spanning 134 km. From its origins in Plitvice Lakes to its confluence with the Kupa River in Karlovac, the Korana holds significant ecological value, being part of the Natura 2000 network. The catchment is home to diverse migratory fish species, including the newly described Alburnus sava. However, 27 barriers impede its flow, affecting biodiversity and hindering its recognition within Natura 2000. The project aims to map and categorise these barriers, laying the groundwork for their removal, restoring biodiversity, and garnering public support.
| Project status | Completed |
|---|---|
| Project type | Barrier identification and prioritisation |
| Country | Croatia |
| River | Korana |
| Focal species | Alburnus sava, Rutilus virgo, Aspius aspius, Barbus balcanicus, Austropotamobius torrentium, Unio crassus, Hucho hucho |
| Organisation | Zelena akcija / Friends of the Earth Croatia |
| Website | Zelena akcija |
Despite its ecological importance, the Korana River catchment faces challenges from 27 barriers affecting biodiversity and hampering its Natura 2000 designation. Removing these barriers could open up 134 km of Korana, 63 km of Mrežnica, 5 km of Slunjčica, and 10-15 km of smaller tributaries, creating a reconnected system with Dobra, Kupa, and Sava rivers. The project presents a unique opportunity to address these challenges, restore biodiversity, and position the issue of barrier removal on the political agenda in Croatia, potentially influencing similar initiatives in neighbouring river systems.
The project’s overarching objective is to set the stage for the future removal of barriers within the Korana River catchment by identifying key barriers and securing public support for their elimination. All existing barriers will be documented through a comprehensive mapping and classification process. Engaging stakeholders through various events and implementing a targeted media campaign will further cultivate public awareness and support. Successful project implementation is anticipated to elevate the importance of barrier removal on the political agenda in Croatia, potentially paving the way for similar initiatives across the region’s rivers.
During this reporting period, significant progress was made in the identification and analysis of artificial barriers along the Korana River. The completion of the second half of fieldwork resulted in the documentation of 74 artificial barriers across approximately one hundred surveyed locations. The comprehensive data collected has informed the development of a detailed report, which includes a prioritised list of barriers recommended for removal or adaptation to improve river connectivity.
In parallel, a legal analysis of the administrative procedures relevant to barrier removal in Croatia was finalised. The findings, including key recommendations, have been published and made accessible to support future restoration initiatives.
Stakeholder engagement remained a central component of the project, with further events held to ensure inclusive dialogue and to foster collaborative approaches towards river restoration.
The outcomes of this phase contribute valuable insights and practical guidance, reinforcing the foundation for strategic planning and implementation of barrier removal efforts along the Korana River.
The project team received a follow-on pre-demolition grant from the programme.
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