Removing deteriorating barriers in Livanjsko Polje will restore fish migration and foster sustainable tourism, empowering local communities while preserving the area's natural and cultural heritage.
Livanjsko Polje is one of the largest karst fields in the Dinaric Alps, located in the western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This vast plain covers approximately 460 square kilometres and is situated at an elevation of around 700 metres above sea level. It is characterised by its extensive grasslands, wetlands, and seasonal lakes, which are the result of the region’s unique karst topography.
The area is rich in biodiversity, hosting various plant and animal species, and is also known for its traditional agricultural practices, particularly cattle breeding and dairy production. Livanjsko Polje is an important ecological site, recognised for its role in flood regulation and as a habitat for numerous bird species, including several that are endangered. The field is surrounded by mountains and is a significant natural and cultural landscape in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| Project status | Live |
|---|---|
| Project type | Dam removal: pre-demolition |
| Country | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| River | Jaruga and Plovuća |
| Km to be opened | 24 km |
| Focal species | Squalius tenellus (CT), Chondrostoma phoxinus, Aulopyge huegelli, Phoxinellus alepidotus |
| Organisation | Udruga Dinarica |
| Website | Dinarica.org |
After completing an identification and prioritisation grant from the programme, this project aims to initiate the permit process for removing four barriers on sinkholes within Livanjsko Polje. These barriers, dating from the 1880s, lost their purpose in the 1970s when the HPP system was constructed in Livanjsko Polje. They are currently in poor condition, deteriorating, but still represent a significant obstacle to the migration of endemic fish species, many of which are present in the Jaruga watercourse. Removing these outdated structures is key to restoring water flow and habitat connectivity.
Recognising the importance of community involvement, the Dinarica Association seeks to engage local stakeholders in identifying opportunities for socioeconomic development. Beyond barrier removal, they aim to leverage the natural and cultural heritage of the sinkhole areas to foster sustainable tourism initiatives. This grant will empower the local community to drive economic growth while supporting conservation efforts. Dinarica Association will lead the project, coordinating with local and governmental partners.
The project in Livanjsko Polje aims to remove outdated dams and barriers to restore natural ecosystems and support endemic fish migration. Additionally, further research will be conducted on fish migration patterns to prioritise the removal of barriers that will most effectively restore natural habitats.
The project also focuses on community engagement, promoting sustainable tourism linked to conservation efforts. A communication campaign will raise awareness and foster local support.
Funded by
