PROCESS LAUNCHED TO ESTABLISH A NEW NATURE PARK IN REPUBLIKA SRPSKA

A process to establish a new nature park, “Veliki Stolac,” has been officially launched in the municipality of Višegrad. The planned protected area will cover approximately 20,000 hectares, it was announced during a presentation of the ongoing protection study.

PHOTO: Branislav Janković

According to Biljana Krstovski from the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia, experts have identified a rich diversity of wildlife in the area. So far, 69 bird species, 17 mammal species, and around 2,000 butterfly species have been recorded, including the well-known Apollo butterfly.

Krstovski added that researchers have also documented 18 species of amphibians and reptiles. Of particular importance are the habitats of Pančić spruce and mountain maple, alongside a total of 729 registered plant species.

The completion of the protection study is expected by the end of August, after which the document will be submitted for adoption by the Government of Republika Srpska.

Dragan Kovačević from the Institute for Protection of Natural and Cultural-Historical Heritage of Republika Srpska emphasized that the establishment of the “Veliki Stolac” Nature Park will have significant economic and tourism benefits for Višegrad. He noted that the project will contribute to regional development, particularly through better integration with nearby protected areas.