Improved Management of Target Habitats and Species in Šibenik-Knin County

Project name:
Improved Management of Target Habitats and Species in Šibenik-Knin County

Fund name: European Regional Development Fund
Programme: Competitiveness and Cohesion 2021-2027 Programme
Intermediate Body Level 1: Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition
Intermediate Body Level 2: Central Finance and Contracting Agency for European Union Programmes and Projects (CFCA)
Project Code: PK.3.7.05.0031

Project Objective:
The main objective of the project is to improve the conservation status of target habitat types and the habitat quality of target species, as well as the management of ecological network areas in Šibenik-Knin County through the implementation of conservation, restoration, and monitoring measures, along with strengthening the capacity of the Public Institution Nature of Šibenik-Knin County. Conservation and restoration measures will cover a total of 746 ha, including 96 ha of marine and 650 ha of terrestrial habitats.

Short project description:
The project covers 29 Natura 2000 sites, including 26 marine sites, 2 terrestrial sites, and the Krka Estuary site, which encompasses both land and sea. In the marine ecosystem, activities include mitigating anchoring pressure by installing eco-mooring buoys, removing ghost fishing gear, conducting seabed cleanup actions, monitoring the bottlenose dolphin, and preparing studies necessary for designating a protected area within the Blitvenica site. On land, the restoration of natural ponds and the installation of "bat-friendly" gates at Mandalina Cave are planned to enhance habitat quality for 9 bat species. Long-term sustainability is ensured through the development of management plans for 12 Natura 2000 sites, capacity building of professional staff, and active communication with stakeholders and the general public.

Indicators and results:
Target value for the Natura 2000 area covered by protection and restoration measures is 746 ha.

Project Beneficiary: Public Institution Nature of Šibenik-Knin County
Partners: Šibenik-Knin County
Location: Šibenik-Knin County
Start of Implementation: 01.01.2026.
End of Implementation: 30.06.2029.
Total Project Value: 2.025.177,10 EUR
Total Eligible Costs:
The total eligible project costs amount to EUR 2,024,220.26,
of which the grant amount is EUR 1,720,587.21,
with 15% co-financing provided by the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund.

Project Activities:

Conservation of marine habitats and associated species in Natura 2000 sites
Restoration and conservation of terrestrial habitats and associated species in Natura 2000 sites
Capacity building of professional staff and raising awareness of Natura 2000 sites and protected areas conservation or restoration
Project management
Communication and visibility

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