“DUGA NJIVA” NEAR MODRIČA DECLARED A PROTECTED AREA

The Government of the Republic of Srpska has officially declared the “Duga Njiva” area near Modriča a protected natural landscape during its 9th session held in Banja Luka.

According to the decision, the protected natural landscape “Duga Njiva” has been placed under protection in order to preserve a landscape of exceptional characteristics with significant natural, biological-ecological, aesthetic, and cultural-historical values. Authorities stated that these values are the result of the area’s natural potential and the traditional way of life of the local population.

The protected area covers a total surface of 3,587.37 hectares within the municipality of Modriča.

The initiative to declare the Duga Njiva area on Trebava Mountain a protected zone was previously submitted to the Ministry for Spatial Planning, Construction and Ecology of the Republic of Srpska by the Municipality of Modriča and the Society for Research and Protection of Biodiversity (DIZB) from Banja Luka.

According to the Protection Study, the area includes a landscape of high scenic value with diverse habitats, wild plant and animal species, as well as traditional land use and settlement organization reflected in local customs, lifestyles, and beliefs.

“Duga Njiva” is located at the intersection of hilly terrain and the lowlands of Posavina, creating a complex morphology, a wealth of natural forms, and diverse visual experiences. The study describes the site as a striking example of a picturesque and culturally shaped landscape in line with the Council of Europe’s European Landscape Convention.

The protected zone is situated in the northern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, within the territory of the Municipality of Modriča, where the Dinaric mountain region meets the Pannonian Plain. It encompasses the central part of Trebava Mountain and the areas of the settlements Riječani Gornji, Tolisa, Vranjak, and partly Koprivna. To the south, the area borders the city of Doboj.

With the latest government decision, a total of 34 areas are now officially protected in the Republic of Srpska.