ZAGREB, 25 Feb (Hina) – Environment and Green Transition Minister Marija Vučković on Wednesday awarded more than €23.3 million in non-refundable EU funding to ten public institutions managing Croatia’s national and nature parks, saying the projects will strengthen long-term sustainability.

Funding decisions under the call “Improved Management of Protected Areas and Natura 2000 Sites” were granted to NorthernВ Velebit National Park, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka National Park, Mljet National Park, Brijuni National Park and Kornati National Park, as well as to Vransko Lake Nature Park, Kopački Rit Nature Park, Medvednica Nature Park and Lastovo Nature Park.

The total value of the approved projects is nearly ­€28 million, covering interventions across more than 52,000 hectares of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems. Measures include habitat restoration through mowing and grazing, removal of invasive woody vegetation, restoration of ponds and rainwater cisterns, and improvements to water regimes and ecological conditions.

Vučković said the projects will not only protect nature but also support biodiversity, responsible land management and the long-term sustainability of local communities.

The ­€75 million call is a major investment in strengthening Croatia’s nature protection system, the ministry said.