Abstract ID: 3.10772 | Accepted as Poster | Poster | TBA | TBA

Soil erosion poses serious challenges for the future of all territories in the Republic of Serbia, particularly the mountainous regions. The negative effects manifest in the destruction and removal of unprotected surface soil layers, as well as the transport and deposition of sediment, increasing the risks of surface runoff and flash floods. The damages include the loss of arable land, sedimentation of roads and reservoirs, increased risks to the safety of the population and their property, and harm to other infrastructure. In addition to climatic influences, land use practices in mountainous areas play a significant role in these negative phenomena. Over the past decade, due to changing climate characteristics, Serbia’s high mountains have become potential locations for snowfall and the development of mountain ski tourism. However, the urbanisation of these locations has led to a reduction in forested areas due to the construction of ski infrastructure and tourist complexes. The development of tourism does not necessarily mean environmental degradation through the destruction of forest complexes but instead commands careful planning and responsible land management. Therefore, aligning the development of mountain regions with nature conservation and risk mitigation for people and property is of utmost importance. Sustainable management involves zoning essential protective forest resources and defining specific conservation measures for managing these mountain forest complexes. Given that forests have numerous positive effects in preventing soil erosion and surface runoff – by protecting surface layers from raindrop impact, improving soil infiltration, reinforcing and stabilising the ground – it is essential to continuously expand protective forest systems. This should include the natural regeneration of existing forests and ongoing afforestation of potentially endangered areas. In this way, the sustainable use of Serbia’s mountain regions can be significantly enhanced.