DOPPS - Restoring and conserving habitats and birds in Skocjanski Zatok N.R.

The main project actions aimed at reducing the pollution levels and restoring habitats important for the survival of bird species in the Skocjanski zatok nature reserve in the city of Koper, in Slovenia. The habitats, which are recognised as rare and endangered on a national and EU level, have been restored and enhanced. Škocjanski zatok has been designated a Natura2000 site. After the completion of the freshwater habitat, a number of breeding pairs were monitored. The new mudflats and islets have given new additional grounds for three targeted habitat types, which were destroyed during the past degradation. Additionally, the Ara channel mouth area has a good potential to develop into the habitat type, ‘estuaries’. The reserve is an environmental education resource of benefit to local schools, education establishments, and scientific and research centres. The reserve has also added to the value of Koper as a tourist destination. The project was also a demonstration of good nature conservation practice and has positively influenced national environmental policies and initiatives. The Development of Škocjanski zatok NR for the period 2007-2011 was published in the Official Journal Republic of Slovenia. The expected construction of visitor facilities (visitor centre, educational trails) has helped deliver the centre’s key messages.