The Plitvice Lakes National Park, a natural gem in Croatia, has been attracting nature enthusiasts for 75 years. The journey to establishing this national park began in 1893 with the Society for the Arrangement and Beautification of Plitvice Lakes, aiming to promote and preserve this unique environment. Academic Ivo Pevalek played a crucial role in advocating for the protection of the lakes, emphasizing their importance in his lectures. Thanks to his dedicated efforts, the Plitvice Lakes received national park status in 1949, becoming the first national park in Croatia. In 1979, the park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing its universal value and distinct hydrogeological conditions that create a true wonder of nature.
To be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, areas must represent unique universal values, meeting at least one out of a total of 10 criteria. The Plitvice Lakes National Park met criteria no. (vii), (viii), and (ix), showcasing its significance on a global scale. The vision for the park includes preserving its unique universal values and the criteria that describe them, ensuring its place as a natural heritage site of immense importance. Natura 2000, an EU initiative for environmental conservation, recognizes the park as a critical area for the survival of rare and endangered species, further highlighting its ecological value.
Monitoring plays a vital role in the preservation of biodiversity and the natural environment at the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Various monitoring activities, such as tracking saproxylic beetles, birds, and water quality indicators, provide essential information for the park’s management and protection efforts. The Park staff actively engage in these activities, ensuring the sustainability of the ecosystem and the protection of natural resources. Through systematic monitoring, the park can make informed decisions to contribute to the long-term sustainability of this precious natural area.
The EUROPARC Federation, an organization promoting sustainable tourism in protected areas across Europe, counts the Plitvice Lakes National Park as a crucial member. The collaboration between the park and EUROPARC has been ongoing for many years, focusing on conferences, workshops, and exchanges of experience in managing protected areas. The European Day of Parks, initiated by EUROPARC, celebrates the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable management of protected areas, bringing communities closer to nature and raising awareness about preserving the natural environment.
The Plitvice Lakes National Park stands as a testament to the beauty and importance of preserving natural environments. Its rich history, UNESCO recognition, monitoring efforts, and collaboration with organizations like EUROPARC highlight the park’s significance in biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism. By recognizing and protecting the unique universal values of the Plitvice Lakes, we can ensure that this precious natural area continues to inspire and educate visitors for generations to come.
