**2. SWOT analysis**

*(4) The management plan shall be binding for all physical and legal entities involved in activities in a protected area* [6]." Every protected area has to evaluate the effectiveness of management regarding the main objectives and values that are being conserved. Management effectiveness evaluation can enable and support an adaptive approach to management, assist in effective resource allocation, promote accountability and transparency and help involve the community. The evaluation should be seen as normal part of the process of management by which

According to the framework for assessing management effectiveness (**Figure 4**), there are

Regarding the framework and the purpose of this article, we are looking now at the context (status and threats) using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis for the initial assessment or rather a quick summary of Plitvice Lakes National Park management effectiveness regarding the main values of the protected area and all other resources that are present. The main objective of this analysis was to see which management areas can be improved and whether the factors influencing the management come from the microenviron-

the management becomes adaptive [11].

ment of the public institution or from external sources.

**Figure 4.** The framework for assessing management effectiveness [11].

many steps in the assessment [11].

60 National Parks - Management and Conservation

SWOT analysis as an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats is a business analysis technique used by an organization when deciding on the best way to achieve future growth. Strengths and weaknesses are considered as internal factors that are favorable and unfavorable as the opposite to opportunities and threats that are considered as external factors, again favorable and unfavorable [12]. For evaluating an organization's environment, two types of analysis are performed: internal analysis by which we analyze internal environment (or microenvironment) considering resources that need to be developed and sustained and external environment (macroenvironment) by which we recognize major developments and future implications [13].

Even though SWOT analysis is highly used by different companies or organizations, it can be used for different management assessments in the environment or protected areas. SWOT analysis was used for environmental management status evaluation [14], for ecosystem services in protected areas [15] or for sustainable tourism development in protected areas [16].

For the purpose of this article, before performing SWOT analysis, we grouped factors into four management areas that we found important for the evaluation: *natural and cultural values* (NCV), *visitation, education and marketing* (VEM), *local community and stakeholders* (LCS) and *infrastructure* (I). For each group, we determined internal and external factors.

Additionally, we performed simple matrix analysis of data using the following:


The analysis was finished by calculating the sum of final scores for internal and external factors. If the final score of internal or external factors is above 2.50, it denotes that favorable factors prevail over unfavorable factors. Similar methodology was performed as in Ref. [16].

#### **2.1. Internal factors**

Seen as strengths, we determined 13 factors for natural and cultural values (NCV), 4 factors for visitation, education and management (VEM), 3 factors for local community and stakeholders (LCS) and 3 factors for infrastructure (I). As weaknesses, we determined 7 factors for NCV, 6 factors for VEM, 4 factors for LCS and 4 factors for I.

Natural values of Plitvice Lakes National Park are the most important ones and several factors are seen as strengths for this protected area. The beautiful landscape is in the form of 16 lakes in a cascading system divided by tufa barriers, pristine beech and fir forests that cover almost 80% of the park's surface and grasslands that are considered hot spots for biodiversity. One of the most important OUVs for the park is most certainly the special biodynamic process of tufa formation that requires a good water quality, different micro- and macroorganisms and certain chemical properties of water. Karst relief with different geological forms like dolines and sinkholes is responsible for special features of this area. Groundwater system is diverse and developed and is considered as a source of water for karst springs that are really valuable and sensitive. Furthermore, biodiversity of flora and fauna species, different habitats and Natura 2000 species is also an important natural value. In the area of the park, there are also some special types of habitat regarding forest with an old-growth forest "Čorkova uvala" and peat habitats like mires and fens. For many years now, natural and geological values of this area have attracted many scientists who found great interest in researching different processes. The park staff within Nature Conservation Service monitor certain flora and fauna species and habitats. Some cultural values, even though there are not many, are also seen as strengths. As a part of material cultural heritage, there are several archeological sites, among which the one that is researched the most is above Lake Kozjak, the "Krčingrad." In some villages, there remains traditional local lifestyle in the form of watermills and sawmills. Intangible cultural heritage is represented through traditional songs, dances, crafts and gastronomy. Plitvice Lakes have always attracted people to visit the area and is recognized with significant touristic attractiveness because beside the beautiful and outstanding landscape there is also a possibility to use the electric boat and panoramic vehicle and walk behind waterfalls and lakes on wooden bridges while visiting the park. The National Park logo is recognized on the national level and is connected with parks of Croatia that unites all protected areas. Important part of visitation system is that the whole public institution is financed through sales of the entrance tickets and from hospitality services. The park also gives significant importance to different educational activities in the form of Junior Ranger program, volunteer program and workshops for children and celebrating important dates in nature protection. The park is also a "driving force" for the entire region. Not only because the park has significant number of local residents employed in different sectors, but also because residents can use apartments that are owned by the park. Because of the high touristic activity in the area, local community can sell their traditional products like cheese, jam and honey and can make additional income for their household. Local community can also use their households to accommodate guests. The park owns significant infrastructure in the form of buildings, hotels, restaurants, auto camps and buffets. One of the strengths is also that, after many years of lobbying, the state road that goes through the park is prohibited for dangerous goods transportation, especially for gasoline and other flammable substances.

underestimated and unrecognized. The construction of a visitor center that has been planned for many years now is not built yet, in spite of the fact that it is much needed for additional presentation of natural and cultural values. In visitation part, several factors need to be addressed and the most important one is the high number of visitors in a short period of only several months (especially in July and August). In that period and on some days, almost 14,000–16,000 visitors are present in the small area of the park, mainly on lakes. However, the visitors only stay for a day or for several hours, so this type of transit tourism is also considered as a weakness. The park doesn't have a visitor management plan and marketing strategy. Even though there are several educational activities, the park lacks educational programs. In different sectors regarding capacity, public institution has deficiency of highly educated employees. The demographic structure of local community is old, and the abandonment of traditional agriculture due to depopulation processes is present. Different social activities in closer areas are lacking. There are unsolved problems with legal property relations. Regarding infrastructure, traffic on some roads still goes through the sensitive catchment area. Maybe the main issue is that some villages do not have proper wastewater sewage system and still uses septic tanks. Hotels, restaurants and even buildings do not have energy certificates, and hotels or other facilities cannot be renovated because of

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complicated documentation and permits that need to be gathered (**Table 1**).

NCV The ongoing process of tufa formation is still active and represents one of the

NCV Biodiversity of flora and fauna species in different ecosystems (water, forest,

NCV Karst relief with variety of forms (dolines, sinkholes, groundwater system and

NCV Around 20 archeological localities in the park (the most researched one is

VEM Significant touristic attractiveness of the area with recognizable visitation system (electric boat, panoramic vehicle and wooden bridges).

VEM Brand and visual identity is recognized on the national level connected with

NCV Rich intangible cultural heritage in the form of local songs, dances, gastronomy

**Strengths**

caves).

main OUVs of the park.

grasslands and others).

above Lake Kozjak, the Krčingrad).

and traditional crafts.

parks of Croatia.

**Code W EFS FS**

NCV Beautiful landscape of lakes and waterfalls, pristine forests and grasslands. 0.035 4 0.14

NCV Natura 2000 species and habitats in the area of the park. 0.035 4 0.14 NCV Presence of old-growth forest "Čorkova uvala." 0.020 3 0.06 NCV Characteristic karst pastures, meadows and arable land. 0.010 3 0.03 NCV Peat habitats (mires and fens) are still conserved in the area of the park. 0.030 4 0.12

NCV Significant scientific interest for all segments of natural and geological values. 0.030 4 0.12 NCV Monitoring of different species and habitats. 0.015 4 0.06

NCV Traditional watermills and sawmills in villages. 0.005 3 0.015

VEM Entrance fees are a significant financial income for the park's economy. 0.045 4 0.18

0.050 4 0.2

0.050 4 0.2

0.025 3 0.075

0.010 3 0.03

0.005 3 0.015

0.030 4 0.12

0.025 4 0.1

There are several internal weaknesses regarding natural and cultural values that were recognized through this process. Allochthonous fish species (pike, chub and rudd) are present in the water ecosystem and can influence biology and lifecycle of other indigenous fish population. Active measures and objectives in management of natural values especially in dealing with succession of grasslands and other important habitats are missing. Succession of grasslands that happens due to several factors like abandonment of traditional agriculture, poor management and unsolved problems with legal property relations can cause a certain biodiversity loss. Lake Kozjak, which is in the core zone of visitation and on which electric boats navigate, is the only water supply for the wider area of the park and the municipality of Rakovica. Beside scientific activity conducted in the area, the park still misses the inventory of some flora and fauna species, habitats and speleological forms. Cultural heritage is missing a plan and vision, and its value is underestimated and unrecognized. The construction of a visitor center that has been planned for many years now is not built yet, in spite of the fact that it is much needed for additional presentation of natural and cultural values. In visitation part, several factors need to be addressed and the most important one is the high number of visitors in a short period of only several months (especially in July and August). In that period and on some days, almost 14,000–16,000 visitors are present in the small area of the park, mainly on lakes. However, the visitors only stay for a day or for several hours, so this type of transit tourism is also considered as a weakness. The park doesn't have a visitor management plan and marketing strategy. Even though there are several educational activities, the park lacks educational programs. In different sectors regarding capacity, public institution has deficiency of highly educated employees. The demographic structure of local community is old, and the abandonment of traditional agriculture due to depopulation processes is present. Different social activities in closer areas are lacking. There are unsolved problems with legal property relations. Regarding infrastructure, traffic on some roads still goes through the sensitive catchment area. Maybe the main issue is that some villages do not have proper wastewater sewage system and still uses septic tanks. Hotels, restaurants and even buildings do not have energy certificates, and hotels or other facilities cannot be renovated because of complicated documentation and permits that need to be gathered (**Table 1**).

One of the most important OUVs for the park is most certainly the special biodynamic process of tufa formation that requires a good water quality, different micro- and macroorganisms and certain chemical properties of water. Karst relief with different geological forms like dolines and sinkholes is responsible for special features of this area. Groundwater system is diverse and developed and is considered as a source of water for karst springs that are really valuable and sensitive. Furthermore, biodiversity of flora and fauna species, different habitats and Natura 2000 species is also an important natural value. In the area of the park, there are also some special types of habitat regarding forest with an old-growth forest "Čorkova uvala" and peat habitats like mires and fens. For many years now, natural and geological values of this area have attracted many scientists who found great interest in researching different processes. The park staff within Nature Conservation Service monitor certain flora and fauna species and habitats. Some cultural values, even though there are not many, are also seen as strengths. As a part of material cultural heritage, there are several archeological sites, among which the one that is researched the most is above Lake Kozjak, the "Krčingrad." In some villages, there remains traditional local lifestyle in the form of watermills and sawmills. Intangible cultural heritage is represented through traditional songs, dances, crafts and gastronomy. Plitvice Lakes have always attracted people to visit the area and is recognized with significant touristic attractiveness because beside the beautiful and outstanding landscape there is also a possibility to use the electric boat and panoramic vehicle and walk behind waterfalls and lakes on wooden bridges while visiting the park. The National Park logo is recognized on the national level and is connected with parks of Croatia that unites all protected areas. Important part of visitation system is that the whole public institution is financed through sales of the entrance tickets and from hospitality services. The park also gives significant importance to different educational activities in the form of Junior Ranger program, volunteer program and workshops for children and celebrating important dates in nature protection. The park is also a "driving force" for the entire region. Not only because the park has significant number of local residents employed in different sectors, but also because residents can use apartments that are owned by the park. Because of the high touristic activity in the area, local community can sell their traditional products like cheese, jam and honey and can make additional income for their household. Local community can also use their households to accommodate guests. The park owns significant infrastructure in the form of buildings, hotels, restaurants, auto camps and buffets. One of the strengths is also that, after many years of lobbying, the state road that goes through the park is prohibited for dangerous goods transportation, especially for gasoline and other flammable substances.

62 National Parks - Management and Conservation

There are several internal weaknesses regarding natural and cultural values that were recognized through this process. Allochthonous fish species (pike, chub and rudd) are present in the water ecosystem and can influence biology and lifecycle of other indigenous fish population. Active measures and objectives in management of natural values especially in dealing with succession of grasslands and other important habitats are missing. Succession of grasslands that happens due to several factors like abandonment of traditional agriculture, poor management and unsolved problems with legal property relations can cause a certain biodiversity loss. Lake Kozjak, which is in the core zone of visitation and on which electric boats navigate, is the only water supply for the wider area of the park and the municipality of Rakovica. Beside scientific activity conducted in the area, the park still misses the inventory of some flora and fauna species, habitats and speleological forms. Cultural heritage is missing a plan and vision, and its value is



The final score was 2.70 meaning that in the analysis of internal factors, the strengths prevail

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As threats for Plitvice Lakes National Park, we determined 6 factors for NCV, 2 factors for LCS and 5 factors for I. As our opportunities, we determined 5 factors for NCV, 5 factors for VEM,

Threats for the Plitvice Lakes National Park are seen through several factors in different management areas. In the area of the park, there is still illegal hunting and fishing present. Even though the Ranger Service is doing their best job in preventing it, it is still present. There is a strong threat from invasive species of crayfish (*Pacifastacus leniusculus* [Dana, 1852]) that were introduced in lower parts of the river Korana outside the borders of the park; however, it can move to upper parts of the river and inside the protected area. Furthermore, the karst area has a high vulnerability and any kind of contamination can end up in the groundwater system and appear at the surface in springs. This possible contamination can come from inadequate and uncontrolled septic tanks. High risk for water contamination also comes from uncontrolled construction and development of houses and buildings in the area that is vulnerable regarding certain loss of water in the underground. Also recognized as a threat is the influence of climate variations and climate changes, especially in water ecosystem regarding changes in water level and temperature. Changes in other ecological factors can also influence different species and other habitats apart from water ecosystem. Villages are getting more and more depopulated as young people move to bigger cities. A certain political instability on local and national level causes changes in the administrative council and in other parts of the organizational structure. Possible concession and privatization of hospitality infrastructure are considered threats. Unsolved issues with water supply system (Lake Kozjak as water supply) and with wastewater system (the lack of wastewater treatment plant) are the main threats regarding infrastructure. There is still uncontrolled traffic of dangerous goods on some roads that pass through sensitive catchment area. The most present threat in recent times has been uncontrolled construction in small villages that does not meet the standards of traditional

construction and is developed in villages without basic communal infrastructure.

The opportunities of the park can be seen in several factors that are considered favorable. In cooperation with different national stakeholders and with a continued support from the park's management, the alternative water supply source can be found. Invasive and allochthonous species can be eradicated from the habitats. However, this activity must be based on scientific proposals and research. National protocols or programs for monitoring of Natura 2000 species and habitats are in the process of development. In cooperation with local community and others, there is a possibility for resolving issues regarding legal property relations that will further improve management of certain habitats and resolve issues with some parts of cultural heritage. In the year 2017, the park's management started the process of writing the new management plan that will also include action plan for visitor management. The opportunity of the National Park is definitely present in the fact that this protected area is inscribed in the UNESCO Heritage List and this can be used for promotion of the park. From 2018, new technologies will be adopted, especially regarding online booking that will improve reservation process. Interpretation of natural and cultural values can be better presented through

over the weaknesses.

**2.2. External factors**

4 factors for LCS and 4 factors for I.

**Table 1.** Internal factors of SWOT analysis for Plitvice Lakes National Park with weight (W), effectiveness factor score (EFS) and final score (FS).

The final score was 2.70 meaning that in the analysis of internal factors, the strengths prevail over the weaknesses.

#### **2.2. External factors**

**Code W EFS FS** VEM Different educational activities. 0.020 3 0.06 LCS The park employs significant number of local residents. 0.040 4 0.16

LCS Traditional touristic activity (capacities for private accommodation). 0.005 3 0.015

NCV Allochthonous species present in the water ecosystem. 0.020 1 0.02 NCV Lack of active measures and objectives in management of natural values. 0.040 1 0.04

NCV Succession of grasslands. 0.020 1 0.02 NCV Inventory of some flora and fauna species, habitats and speleological forms. 0.010 2 0.02 NCV Unrecognized value of cultural heritage that lacks defined plan and vision. 0.010 2 0.02 NCV Visitor center for presentation of natural and cultural values is not built yet. 0.020 2 0.04

VEM Visitors stay for short amount of time in the park area (transit tourism). 0.020 2 0.04 VEM Lack of visitor management plan. 0.050 1 0.05 VEM Lack of different educational programs. 0.025 1 0.025 VEM Lack of marketing strategy. 0.030 1 0.03 VEM Deficiency of highly educated employees. 0.005 2 0.01 LCS Unsolved problems with legal property relations. 0.020 1 0.02 LCS Old demographic structure. 0.005 2 0.01 LCS Abandonment of traditional agriculture. 0.010 2 0.02 LCS Poor additional social activities for local community in the broader area. 0.005 2 0.01 I Traffic on some roads in the park still goes through sensitive catchment area. 0.020 1 0.02 I Wastewater sewage system is missing in some villages (septic tanks). 0.025 1 0.025 I Hotels and facilities do not have energy certificates. 0.005 2 0.01

**Total 2.70**

**Table 1.** Internal factors of SWOT analysis for Plitvice Lakes National Park with weight (W), effectiveness factor score

0.010 3 0.03

0.040 4 0.16

0.015 3 0.045

0.025 4 0.1

0.025 1 0.025

0.050 1 0.05

0.010 2 0.02

**1** / /

LCS Several small family owned agricultural economies producing different

I Park owns significant infrastructure (buildings, hotels, restaurants and auto

I Residents of several villages have an opportunity to use apartments owned by

NCV Lake Kozjak supplies part of the park's area and municipality of Rakovica with

VEM High number of visitors in small area of the park (congestion during high

I Lack of complete documentation (permits) for hospitality infrastructure, which

causes obstruction for renovation.

I State road that goes through the park is prohibited for dangerous goods

products (honey, cheese and jams).

64 National Parks - Management and Conservation

camps).

the park.

transportation.

drinking water.

season).

(EFS) and final score (FS).

**Weaknesses**

As threats for Plitvice Lakes National Park, we determined 6 factors for NCV, 2 factors for LCS and 5 factors for I. As our opportunities, we determined 5 factors for NCV, 5 factors for VEM, 4 factors for LCS and 4 factors for I.

Threats for the Plitvice Lakes National Park are seen through several factors in different management areas. In the area of the park, there is still illegal hunting and fishing present. Even though the Ranger Service is doing their best job in preventing it, it is still present. There is a strong threat from invasive species of crayfish (*Pacifastacus leniusculus* [Dana, 1852]) that were introduced in lower parts of the river Korana outside the borders of the park; however, it can move to upper parts of the river and inside the protected area. Furthermore, the karst area has a high vulnerability and any kind of contamination can end up in the groundwater system and appear at the surface in springs. This possible contamination can come from inadequate and uncontrolled septic tanks. High risk for water contamination also comes from uncontrolled construction and development of houses and buildings in the area that is vulnerable regarding certain loss of water in the underground. Also recognized as a threat is the influence of climate variations and climate changes, especially in water ecosystem regarding changes in water level and temperature. Changes in other ecological factors can also influence different species and other habitats apart from water ecosystem. Villages are getting more and more depopulated as young people move to bigger cities. A certain political instability on local and national level causes changes in the administrative council and in other parts of the organizational structure. Possible concession and privatization of hospitality infrastructure are considered threats. Unsolved issues with water supply system (Lake Kozjak as water supply) and with wastewater system (the lack of wastewater treatment plant) are the main threats regarding infrastructure. There is still uncontrolled traffic of dangerous goods on some roads that pass through sensitive catchment area. The most present threat in recent times has been uncontrolled construction in small villages that does not meet the standards of traditional construction and is developed in villages without basic communal infrastructure.

The opportunities of the park can be seen in several factors that are considered favorable. In cooperation with different national stakeholders and with a continued support from the park's management, the alternative water supply source can be found. Invasive and allochthonous species can be eradicated from the habitats. However, this activity must be based on scientific proposals and research. National protocols or programs for monitoring of Natura 2000 species and habitats are in the process of development. In cooperation with local community and others, there is a possibility for resolving issues regarding legal property relations that will further improve management of certain habitats and resolve issues with some parts of cultural heritage. In the year 2017, the park's management started the process of writing the new management plan that will also include action plan for visitor management. The opportunity of the National Park is definitely present in the fact that this protected area is inscribed in the UNESCO Heritage List and this can be used for promotion of the park. From 2018, new technologies will be adopted, especially regarding online booking that will improve reservation process. Interpretation of natural and cultural values can be better presented through visitor center (possibility of using EU funds) and through development of educational programs. There is also an opportunity in developing sustainable tourism approach from getting certain certificates. By using EU funds and similar external sources, there is a possibility to stimulate traditional agriculture, where local products can get national certificates for quality. Furthermore, local households can develop an ecotourism approach and be more competitive on the market. Apartments that are used by the park's employees can be repurchased, which will help people to stay in the area of the park. Regarding other infrastructure, the signed agreement between different stakeholders is an opportunity to resolve issues with wastewater system and management. The use of EU funds again can help resolving issues regarding energy efficiency and reconstruction of water supply system. The park can lobby in different institutions that are relevant for decision making about relocation of traffic from some roads. Hotels and other hospitality facilities can get environment-friendly brand (**Table 2**).

The final score was 2.61 meaning that in the analysis of external factors, the opportunities prevail over the threats.


**3. Discussion**

(EFS) and final score (FS).

**Threats**

tanks.

restaurants).

infrastructure.

After performing SWOT analysis, a few important facts about the management of the park became evident. For both the internal and external factors, the final score was above 2.50 meaning that favorable factors (strengths and opportunities) prevail over unfavorable factors (weaknesses and threats). Furthermore, internal factors are stronger than external ones. However, the main problem with the methodology was in deciding about the weight of each factor considering that management of the park is not only directional toward nature conservation, but there are also other different factors that needed to be taken into consideration.

**Table 2.** External factors of SWOT analysis for Plitvice Lakes National Park with weight (W), effectiveness factor score

**Code W EFS FS**

Challenges in the Management of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Republic of Croatia

NCV Illegal hunting. 0.015 2 0.03 NCV Invasive species. 0.035 1 0.035 NCV High vulnerability of karst area (groundwater system). 0.040 1 0.04 NCV Climate changes and variations and their influence on species and habitats. 0.020 2 0.04 NCV Uncontrolled construction in the high-risk zone for water contamination. 0.045 1 0.045

LCS Depopulation of villages. 0.015 2 0.03 LCS Political instability at local and national level. 0.045 1 0.045

I Unsolved issues with water supply system. 0.045 1 0.045 I Unsolved issues with wastewater system. 0.045 1 0.045 I Uncontrolled traffic of possible dangerous cargo on some roads. 0.020 2 0.04

**Total 2.61**

0.040 1 0.04

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0.035 1 0.035

0.035 1 0.035

**1** / /

NCV Contamination of natural waters from inadequate and uncontrolled septic

I Possible concession and privatization of hospitality infrastructure (hotels and

I Uncontrolled construction in small villages without the basic communal

The park's natural value is still very well conserved through biodiversity of different species, important habitats and ongoing process of tufa formation that was significant for forming such landscape of lakes and waterfalls. Recognition of the park by the UNESCO with significant OUVs that are present is definitely a strength of this protected area. Good financial status provides the stable income for the park`s management and allows financing of various projects and developing infrastructure. There are also several other strengths in every management area highlighted in **Table 1**. Among positive external factors, the opportunities for the


**Table 2.** External factors of SWOT analysis for Plitvice Lakes National Park with weight (W), effectiveness factor score (EFS) and final score (FS).

## **3. Discussion**

**Code W EFS FS**

The final score was 2.61 meaning that in the analysis of external factors, the opportunities

Hotels and other hospitality facilities can get environment-friendly brand (**Table 2**).

visitor center (possibility of using EU funds) and through development of educational programs. There is also an opportunity in developing sustainable tourism approach from getting certain certificates. By using EU funds and similar external sources, there is a possibility to stimulate traditional agriculture, where local products can get national certificates for quality. Furthermore, local households can develop an ecotourism approach and be more competitive on the market. Apartments that are used by the park's employees can be repurchased, which will help people to stay in the area of the park. Regarding other infrastructure, the signed agreement between different stakeholders is an opportunity to resolve issues with wastewater system and management. The use of EU funds again can help resolving issues regarding energy efficiency and reconstruction of water supply system. The park can lobby in different institutions that are relevant for decision making about relocation of traffic from some roads.

NCV Eradication of invasive and allochthonous species. 0.030 4 0.12

NCV Development of new management plan. 0.050 4 0.2 VEM Interpretation and education about natural and cultural values. 0.040 4 0.16 VEM World Heritage List of UNESCO can be used for promotion of the NP. 0.025 3 0.075 VEM Using new technologies for booking, reservation and online ticket sales. 0.035 4 0.14 VEM Development of visitor management plan. 0.050 4 0.2 VEM Sustainable tourism approach. 0.040 4 0.16 LCS Possibility to stimulate traditional agriculture (EU fond). 0.025 3 0.075 LCS Certification of local products. 0.020 3 0.06 LCS Development of ecotourism. 0.020 3 0.06 LCS Possibility for repurchasing of apartments by the employees. 0.020 3 0.06

I Possibility for traffic relocation from roads in the park's area. 0.020 4 0.08 I Getting the environment-friendly (or other) brand for the hotels. 0.025 3 0.075

0.035 4 0.14

0.040 4 0.16

0.030 4 0.12

0.040 4 0.16

0.020 3 0.06

NCV Relocation of water supply system outside the park in cooperation with

NCV Monitoring of Natura 2000 species and habitats regarding national protocols

NCV Cooperation with local community and others for resolving legal property

I Signed agreement between different stakeholders for resolving wastewater

I Use of EU funds to resolve issues connected with energy efficiency and

stakeholders (alternative water supply).

relations for better management of habitats.

**Opportunities**

prevail over the threats.

66 National Parks - Management and Conservation

and programs.

management issues.

reconstruction of water supply system.

After performing SWOT analysis, a few important facts about the management of the park became evident. For both the internal and external factors, the final score was above 2.50 meaning that favorable factors (strengths and opportunities) prevail over unfavorable factors (weaknesses and threats). Furthermore, internal factors are stronger than external ones. However, the main problem with the methodology was in deciding about the weight of each factor considering that management of the park is not only directional toward nature conservation, but there are also other different factors that needed to be taken into consideration.

The park's natural value is still very well conserved through biodiversity of different species, important habitats and ongoing process of tufa formation that was significant for forming such landscape of lakes and waterfalls. Recognition of the park by the UNESCO with significant OUVs that are present is definitely a strength of this protected area. Good financial status provides the stable income for the park`s management and allows financing of various projects and developing infrastructure. There are also several other strengths in every management area highlighted in **Table 1**. Among positive external factors, the opportunities for the park are in sustainable tourism and development of eco-tourism, perhaps not connected to the park's facilities but rather to private households. The park has been a long-time member of EUROPARC Federation and there is an opportunity to be involved in the European charter for sustainable tourism, a type of certificate that is given to protected areas regarding its sustainable tourism management [17]. Regarding eco-tourism, there are still several households that maintain traditional agriculture and production of homemade products that can find their way toward an interested market.

Kozjak is not suitable as a water supply. Even though the lake is of good water quality [19, 20], there are certain threats still present. The lake is used for navigation of electric boats; however, the important factor that needs consideration is environmental flow. Environmental flow for freshwater ecosystems is a significant part of adaptive management [21]. Furthermore, the management of wastewater sewage system is inadequate, lacking the wastewater treatment plant for entire sewage system. This issue has been a problem for many years considering the fact that investment in this project is rather high and it cannot only be financed solely by the park; it requires additional funding. The positive step for resolving this issue is in the signed

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External factors that have a great impact on this protected area are recognized through several important issues. One of the most important issues that has been present in recent times is an uncontrolled construction in small villages like village Plitvica. In a short period of time, many houses have been built mainly with a purpose to be rented to visitors as a private accommodation. However, the area of construction is rather a sensitive karst area were certain amount of water from the stream Plitvica is lost in the underground [22] and there is a lack of any kind of proper communal infrastructure that gives a great concern about the possible water contamination. Regarding that issue, the National Park had Reactive Monitoring Mission by UNESCO that gave recommendations that should be addressed in future management of the park. These recommendations are not only mandatory for the park to adopt, but also for the other national

During the Homeland War (1990–1995), the area of the park was under the occupation and was depopulated. Afterward, some percent of the population returned and continued to work and live in the area. However, villages remained depopulated, and mostly with older generation of residents. Nowadays, this issue is still present but is more connected with the issue of general moving of population to bigger cities. According to the UN Revision, by 2050, 66% of

Climate change is also an important external factor that influences not only the biodiversity but also the habitats. For freshwater ecosystem in the park, researchers compared the data of water temperature with time difference of 30 years and concluded that the water temperature rose by 1.5°C in lakes [25]. Even though climate change is a significant threat to declining freshwater population, it seems also that the great impact comes from habitat loss or degradation. Freshwater habitats are strongly affected by different impacts, and according to Freshwater Living Planet Index, the abundance of the populations has declined by 81%

Rather important, but a highly external factor, is lack of continuity in the political sense where the political influence and changes have certain impact in protected areas either through financing them or designating new protected areas. This is not something that is unusual or new and it has been recognized in other protected areas all over the world. The increasing number of governments are overtly decreasing resources for protected areas, upgrading and upsizing protected areas require persistent political engagement and most conservation prob-

institutions and ministries in Republic of Croatia have the same obligation [23].

Agreement between different stakeholders.

world's population is projected to be urban [24].

lems cannot be solved in 5-year stands [27, 28].

between 1970 and 2012 [26].

Even though favorable factors prevailed over unfavorable factors in the park's management, they should also be mentioned and addressed. There is definitely a high pressure from tourism in the park. Since the year 2000, there has been a constant increase in the number of visitors to the park (**Figure 5**). The first one millionth visitor was noted in 2011, and in 2016, the park had over 1.4 million visitors per year. The highest visitation is present during summer months in July and August, which brings a lot of pressure to the park's management dealing with congestion and long waiting periods to use the electric boats and panoramic vehicles. In addition, the experience of the protected area is low, with negative effect regarding connection with nature. This issue was recognized previously, through the assessment of visitor and tourism management in the National Park [18].

Infrastructure is also a significant issue for the National Park and it should be resolved in the next several years. There is lack of adequate water supply, considering the fact that Lake

**Figure 5.** Number of visitors per year in the period from 1996 to 2016.

Kozjak is not suitable as a water supply. Even though the lake is of good water quality [19, 20], there are certain threats still present. The lake is used for navigation of electric boats; however, the important factor that needs consideration is environmental flow. Environmental flow for freshwater ecosystems is a significant part of adaptive management [21]. Furthermore, the management of wastewater sewage system is inadequate, lacking the wastewater treatment plant for entire sewage system. This issue has been a problem for many years considering the fact that investment in this project is rather high and it cannot only be financed solely by the park; it requires additional funding. The positive step for resolving this issue is in the signed Agreement between different stakeholders.

External factors that have a great impact on this protected area are recognized through several important issues. One of the most important issues that has been present in recent times is an uncontrolled construction in small villages like village Plitvica. In a short period of time, many houses have been built mainly with a purpose to be rented to visitors as a private accommodation. However, the area of construction is rather a sensitive karst area were certain amount of water from the stream Plitvica is lost in the underground [22] and there is a lack of any kind of proper communal infrastructure that gives a great concern about the possible water contamination. Regarding that issue, the National Park had Reactive Monitoring Mission by UNESCO that gave recommendations that should be addressed in future management of the park. These recommendations are not only mandatory for the park to adopt, but also for the other national institutions and ministries in Republic of Croatia have the same obligation [23].

During the Homeland War (1990–1995), the area of the park was under the occupation and was depopulated. Afterward, some percent of the population returned and continued to work and live in the area. However, villages remained depopulated, and mostly with older generation of residents. Nowadays, this issue is still present but is more connected with the issue of general moving of population to bigger cities. According to the UN Revision, by 2050, 66% of world's population is projected to be urban [24].

Climate change is also an important external factor that influences not only the biodiversity but also the habitats. For freshwater ecosystem in the park, researchers compared the data of water temperature with time difference of 30 years and concluded that the water temperature rose by 1.5°C in lakes [25]. Even though climate change is a significant threat to declining freshwater population, it seems also that the great impact comes from habitat loss or degradation. Freshwater habitats are strongly affected by different impacts, and according to Freshwater Living Planet Index, the abundance of the populations has declined by 81% between 1970 and 2012 [26].

Rather important, but a highly external factor, is lack of continuity in the political sense where the political influence and changes have certain impact in protected areas either through financing them or designating new protected areas. This is not something that is unusual or new and it has been recognized in other protected areas all over the world. The increasing number of governments are overtly decreasing resources for protected areas, upgrading and upsizing protected areas require persistent political engagement and most conservation problems cannot be solved in 5-year stands [27, 28].

**Figure 5.** Number of visitors per year in the period from 1996 to 2016.

toward an interested market.

68 National Parks - Management and Conservation

tourism management in the National Park [18].

park are in sustainable tourism and development of eco-tourism, perhaps not connected to the park's facilities but rather to private households. The park has been a long-time member of EUROPARC Federation and there is an opportunity to be involved in the European charter for sustainable tourism, a type of certificate that is given to protected areas regarding its sustainable tourism management [17]. Regarding eco-tourism, there are still several households that maintain traditional agriculture and production of homemade products that can find their way

Even though favorable factors prevailed over unfavorable factors in the park's management, they should also be mentioned and addressed. There is definitely a high pressure from tourism in the park. Since the year 2000, there has been a constant increase in the number of visitors to the park (**Figure 5**). The first one millionth visitor was noted in 2011, and in 2016, the park had over 1.4 million visitors per year. The highest visitation is present during summer months in July and August, which brings a lot of pressure to the park's management dealing with congestion and long waiting periods to use the electric boats and panoramic vehicles. In addition, the experience of the protected area is low, with negative effect regarding connection with nature. This issue was recognized previously, through the assessment of visitor and

Infrastructure is also a significant issue for the National Park and it should be resolved in the next several years. There is lack of adequate water supply, considering the fact that Lake
