Protection of Caves
Bozidar Vasiljevic
What are the prospects and the future course of protection of karst phenomena,
including caves?
Persistence in the current strategy of protection, which
postulates this activity as a function of the state that enables it to
protect the most valuable phenomena in the natural heritage. Changes in
laws ensuring stronger legal support of the system of cave protection.
Development of a system of caretaking in which the responsibilities and
interests of the custodian-managers are more precisely designated. In this
system, the custodian must more effectively represent the public interest
in the matter of guarding, maintaining, and improving caves. Development
of methods for investigation, repair, conservation, and improvement of
caves through the work of competent institutions and organizations taking
a multidisciplinary approach which ensures that all key characteristics
of caves and pits are carefully evaluated and adequately treated. In connection
with this, it is necessary to require fuller information about research
and other planned activities and work in caves. Renewal and modernization
of the Speleological Association of Serbia and establishment of a Cadastre
of Caves. Livelier and more complete presentation of the natural characteristics
and cultural-historical aspects of caves and pits, together with discussion
of problems involved in their protection and results achieved by it. Systematic
work on development and advancement of the scientific and educational functions
of these natural resources. Formulation of effective financial instruments
for the funding of work involved in guarding, maintenance, improvement,
and presentation of caves (Vasiljevic B., 1997).