Evolving GIS technologies in nature conservation and the spatial planning strategy of Tara NP (Serbia) as a potential UNECSO MAB reserve

• Main Authors: Radović Dejan, Andrian Giorgio, Radović Ivica, Srdić Zoran, Protić Dragutin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Serbian Geographical Society 2008-01-01
• Series: Glasnik Srpskog Geografskog Društva
• Subjects: GIS; Tara NP (Serbia); nature conservation; geodiversity; biodiversity; spatial planning strategy; management for sustainable use of natural resources
• Online Access: http://www.doiserbia.nb.rs/img/doi/0350-3593/2008/0350-35930803087R.pdf

Mt. Tara NP was nominated in 2004 within the UNESCO - ROSTE programme, for Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Reserve status in Serbia as transboundary 'Peace Park' status between Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Mt. Tara is one of the most important centres of Balkans and European ecosystems and species diversity. They represent a unique example of well preserved forests in south eastern Europe with numerous endemic and relict species of flora and fauna. In this floristic diversity of Mt Tara of the greatest interest is the Serbian (Pančić's) spruce Picea omorika. Mt. Tara NP is characterized by specific geomorphologic, hydrologic, geologic, soil and climatic features. The geographical information system (GIS) that we have created has proved an excellent tool for the spatial planning strategy in assessment and conservation of all natural characteristics of Mt. Tara NP, and is helpful to Park management for sustainable use of landscape resources. GIS of Mt. Tara NP includes data on natural, artificial and management themes.