PUMed – RESOURCES OF THE MEDITERRANEAN: THE NERETVA DELTA

The Neretva Valley – a treasure trove of biodiversity The Neretva River is located in the far south of the Republic of Croatia, in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County. It has the only true delta and the largest river mouth in Croatia, which makes it stand out as a particularly important natural phenomenon. With its unique and expansive delta, it is one of the most valuable natural areas, important not only on the local, regional and national level, but also on the European and international level. The Neretva Delta, which covers around 20,000 hectares, harbors a wealth of wetland habitats and coastal lagoons, as well as a diverse and unique flora and fauna, especially protected species. Among the most important features of the Neretva is its exceptional biodiversity of habitats and species. The importance of the area is highlighted by its ornithofauna – the bird world – as it is home to more than 300 species. The Neretva Valley is recognized as one of the most important resting, wintering and nesting sites for numerous bird species along the Adriatic migratory route. The significance of the Neretva Valley is also reflected in the various forms of protection in accordance with the Nature Protection Act. It contains seven protected areas, including six special reserves and one significant landscape, as well as one protected mineral. Protected areas not only preserve rare and endangered species and habitats, but also ensure the natural balance necessary for the sustainability of the entire ecosystem. The Neretva Valley is part of the European ecological network “Natura 2000” and is also listed under the Ramsar Convention. The geographical position of the Neretva River, surrounded by rugged hills rich in underground waters, further contributes to its diversity. In the Neretva karst, there are over 100 registered caves and pits, as well as other underground habitats that host a rich fauna with many endangered and endemic species. This combination of karst formations and the wetland world makes the Neretva Valley a unique natural area. A special microclimate and fertile soil enable agriculture, which is the most important economic activity in the Neretva Valley. The landscape richness of the Neretva Valley is based on the abundance of water and a specific jendek landscape formed by the traditional method of creating fertile soil. Namely, the swampy soil of the delta in the past was unsuitable for agriculture. The river carried huge amounts of very fertile material and dispersed it into the sea, leaving only a smaller portion in the valley. This was completely insufficient for the needs of the population. For that reason, the inhabitants began practicing jendečenje, the first form of land reclamation, i.e., converting swampy areas into fertile agricultural land. In addition to its natural beauty and biological wealth, the Neretva Valley also provides numerous free ecosystem services that are important for the life of the local population. Thus, reed rhizomes stabilize and retain sediment, and by slowing down the speed and softening the strength of waves, they protect the coastline, making them a natural line of defense against floods. In addition, they prevent erosion that occurs as a result of flooding. They also have the ability to filter larger particles, thereby purifying water, as well as the ability to store nutrients, especially phosphorus, nitrogen and nitrates, which are associated with sewage pollution or pollution caused by intensive agriculture. They also play a major role in stabilizing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change because they produce oxygen and absorb and store carbon dioxide, thereby ensuring clean air. Additionally, they provide benefits such as supplying timber raw materials and enhancing the attractiveness of an area as a tourist destination. The Neretva is not only a treasure trove of biodiversity, but also an area deeply rooted in the tradition, culture and way of life of the local population. Sustainable development, which includes organic farming and selective forms of tourism such as birdwatching and nature observation, is the foundation for preserving natural values and conveys an important message about the coexistence of humans and nature. The Neretva Valley is a unique and invaluable oasis within the karst framework, rich in water and fertile soil, as well as abundant in animal and plant life. Its protection and preservation are not only a matter of local responsibility but also of global concern so that through joint efforts it can be preserved and passed down as a legacy to future generations. Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas of Dubrovnik-Neretva County