Mojstirsko-Draske Mountains Declared Special Nature Reserve

Over 80 representatives from local self - governments, public organizations and institutions from the local and national level, civil society, and citizens gathered on December 18 in Tutin to discuss the newly established Mojstirsko-Draske mountains special nature reserve. The event, as well as the processes presented and discussed prior to the establishment of the reserve, highlighted the importance of environmental protection management as the foundation for the sustainable development of this unique area, rich in biodiversity.

A public forum was held in Tutin to inform the public about the declaration of the Mojstirsko-Draske mountains as a special nature reserve. The event brought together 83 representatives from local self-governments, PE Srbijašume, the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia, the Tutin Tourist Organization, local public organizations and institutions, mountaineering and hunting associations, representatives of local private businesses, civil society organizations, interested citizens, and local media.

The goal of the public forum was to highlight the significance of the reserve for the municipality of Tutin and initiate a dialogue about future cooperation in protecting and improving this area. Representatives from the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia presented the Regulation on protection and the research process that preceded the declaration. Public Enterprise "Srbijasume," as the manager of the reserve, presented its plans and the way it collaborates with the local community.

The forum also provided an opportunity for discussion about cooperation modalities among all interested parties, including the Tourist Organization, mountaineering and hunting associations, private users, and landowners. The importance of intersectoral cooperation and respecting diverse interests was emphasized.

The “PRO - Local Governance for People and Nature” programme provided several months of technical support to the municipality of Tutin in adopting processes, procedures, and practices for environmental protection management.

The "PRO - Local Governance for People and Nature" programme is implemented by UN agencies in Serbia - UNOPS, UNICEF, UNFPA, and UNEP, in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Serbia and with financial support from the Government of Switzerland.