Drina
The Drina river basin covers an area of 19,680 km² and extends over the territory of the three largest coastal countries: Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. Pristine ecosystems, wetlands and alluvial forests are among the most important habitats in the Drina basin. They represent an important factor for habitat diversity and provide conditions and shelter for many species.
The Ice Age caused the Drina Valley to be the only escape route for many European species, which retreated before the encroaching ice. Drina with its living world represents the most important refuge in the Balkans, a number of species find refuge in the gorges. Nature, tradition, history, and culture are intertwined with the river, which functions as a border but also unites peoples of different religions and beliefs for centuries.
The cultural complexity of this area was created by centuries of cummulation of the influence of different civilizations and cultures, and this area today abounds in the richness and diversity of its cultural heritage and the underutilized historical attractiveness of certain locations.
NIMBUS / EARTH THRIVE / BALKAN CENTRE FOR THE RIGHTS OF NATURE
The Drina is already threatened, and new unsustainable development projects are being planned. Also, a lack of sustainable water and waste management has already damaged certain sections of the river. Only 5.44% of the Drina basin is under protection which is far below the European average. The Drina basin is not adequately protected despite its above-average biodiversity, diverse habitats, and cultural heritage. However, some sections of the stream in the Drina basin still represent intact ecosystems. In addition, numerous species still live in the Drina basin and there are various habitats of exceptional ecological value and unique importance for biodiversity. Therefore, we have started work on trying to ensure rights for the river Drina.
NIMBUS’s mission is to promote and encourage the implementation of advanced and innovative solutions that improve and enrich rural life, as well as solutions in the field of sustainable rural development, all with the aim of retaining young people in rural areas. Rural natural and cultural heritage deserves preservation for local communities and future generations.
