Development of the Operational Plan for the Management of Invasive Plant Species in Five Protected Areas of Sarajevo Canton

Summary of project:

The project addressed one of the key ecological pressures in protected areas—the spread of invasive plant species—across five priority sites in Sarajevo Canton: Natural Monument “Vrelo Bosne”, Natural Monument “Skakavac”, Protected Landscape “Bentbaša”, Protected Landscape “Trebević”, and Protected Landscape “Bijambare”.

Its core objective was the development of a comprehensive ten-year Operational Plan for invasive species management, providing a strategic framework for reducing invasive flora, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring long-term ecosystem stability. The approach combined field research, GIS mapping, impact assessment, and development of control measures, alongside strengthened stakeholder engagement and public awareness.

Project objective

General objective:

To establish a ten-year operational framework for the control and management of invasive plant species across five protected areas in Sarajevo Canton, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity, ecosystem health, and long-term resilience of these landscapes.

Specific objectives:

• Analyze the status of alien and invasive plant species across all protected areas based on scientific and expert data

• Identify and prioritize key invasive species using internationally recognized criteria (IUCN) in coordination with managing authorities

• Conduct GIS mapping and monitoring of invasive species distribution using field-based methodologies

• Identify priority intervention areas based on ecological impact

• Develop and apply effective, locally adapted control and suppression measures

• Strengthen awareness and capacity of local communities and protected area managers for long-term invasive species management

Key project activities:

• Inventory and GIS mapping of invasive plant species through desk and field research

• Impact assessment and identification of priority intervention hotspots

• Development and testing of site-specific control methods

• Organization of workshops and consultations with managers, experts, and local communities

• Preparation of a ten-year Operational Plan integrating data, analysis, and recommendations

• Implementation of awareness-raising and educational activities for stakeholders

• Monitoring and reporting to ensure continuous evaluation and accountability

Expected project outcomes:

• A ten-year Operational Plan establishing a structured framework for invasive species management in five protected areas of Sarajevo Canton

• Improved and systematized data on invasive species distribution through GIS mapping

• Tested and locally adapted control methods for effective management

• Increased awareness of local communities and stakeholders on the impacts of invasive species and the need for management measures

• Strengthened institutional capacity for long-term biodiversity protection and sustainable management of protected areas in Sarajevo Canton