Neretva Delta Activities Studies Five studies of the Neretva Delta were carried out by selected experts. Final versions of the reports were distributed to the Croatian Ministry of Environment (CMoE), the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMoE), experts, NGOs and all others stakeholders. The studies included: a survey of existing water rights; the identification of relationships between hydrological dynamics and biodiversity values; a socio-economic analysis; a review of impacts of major economic activities; and a survey of awareness of environmental issues among key groups. A workshop was organised from September 3rd to 5th in Mostar. Fifty participants worked to establish priorities for the Neretva Delta, based on the reports. Report summaries were used as working material and each expert had a presentation of his/her report to open discussion with stakeholders on each topic. Common priorities for future joint activities were identified by the stakeholders from the two countries. Field research on household water use The majority of water used by households in the Neretva Delta region is for agricultural purposes. The danger when water is overused is that sea water is drawn into the Delta. The water management companies from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina recognise the urgency of this problem. Using the same questionnaire, the water management experts gathered basic information from both sides of the border. The results were presented at a public hearing. Toxicological analysis of heavy metals in the Neretva Delta Local communities needed to be informed of the pollution levels, according to an agreement made at the multi-stakeholders workshop, September 2001, in Mostar. A quick assessment of heavy metals in the delta was undertaken. A report was produced by experts and disseminated to interested stakeholders. All results were presented at a public hearing in Mostar that was attended by more than 40 participants. The meeting was also covered by TV, newspaper and radio reporters. Survey on birds of the Neretva Delta, 2005 In 2005 a detailed survey on the birds in Neretva Delta was completed to serve as a basis for sound planning of joint protection measures. The survey report compiles results of recent ornithological research, presents the list of bird species in the area (with special attention to those globally threatened) and their status of protection, specific threats to the birds and required protection measures. Key local stakeholders and various professional institutions were involved in the report’s preparation (e.g. the Croatian Institute of Ornithology; the National Institute for Nature Protection, Zagreb; the Cantonal Ministry of Environment, Mostar; the Croatian Ministry of Culture; and county and canton representatives from both Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina). The final version of the report was approved by the Croatian Academy of Science and Art, Department of Ornithology.

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