Protection of karst features, water resources, biodiversity and subterranean habitats

The objective is the application of scientific findings on the characteristics of the karst aquifers functioning in solving practical challenges of life and planning on karst, such as studying the impacts of human activities and actions; laying down guidelines for proper planning of the use and protection of karst water resources; for the purpose of early warning against high waters; determining flood-liable land; studying the distribution of and ensuring a favourable habitat for subterranean animal species. The objective of research conducted in show caves is the drafting of nature conservation policies for their sustainable use based on microclimate, biological and morphological monitoring. The results will be important for determining the caves’ carrying capacity, for their conservation, and for the use of good practices in natural heritage protection. It is a direct link between scientific and professional nature conservation methods and managers in implementing long-term sustainable use of caves for tourism.

Taking a swab for the presence of biological material on the platform in Postojnska Jama, photo Blaž Kogovšek.

Cave dive in the cave Matijeva jama, photo Blaž Kogovšek.