The 20th gathering of professional services of public institutions for the management of protected areas and ecological network areas was held on the island of Cres from 13 to 15 October. The event brought together around 150 experts from national parks, nature parks and county public institutions, with representatives of the Public Institution “Mljet National Park” also among the participants.
The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition was the organiser of the gathering, while the Public Institution “Priroda” served as host and co-organiser, with support from Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, the City of Cres and the Tourist Board of the City of Cres. The central theme of this year’s meeting was nature restoration, a key issue for the future management of protected areas and Natura 2000 ecological network sites.
Through professional presentations and discussions, participants exchanged knowledge and experience, and familiarised themselves with projects, activities and challenges in implementing measures aimed at ecosystem restoration and the preservation of natural values. Particular attention was paid to the National Nature Restoration Plan.
As part of the accompanying programme “Preserving Nature Beyond the Framework”, Mljet National Park presented products from local producers bearing the Mljet Made quality label. The presentation was held within the theme of branding products and services of protected areas, with the aim of highlighting the importance of linking the preservation of natural and cultural heritage with the development of the local community. In doing so, Mljet National Park emphasised the importance of preserving the island’s identity and supporting local producers.
The choice of Cres as the host for this year’s gathering is significant due to its biodiversity and the fact that the entire island is part of the Natura 2000 ecological network. Cres is known for its long-standing activities in the conservation of the white-tailed eagle, and as part of the professional programme, participants visited the White-tailed Eagle Rehabilitation Centre in the village of Beli.
Participation in the gathering provided an opportunity for the exchange of professional knowledge and experience, as well as strengthening cooperation among public institutions.
