As a continuation of previously implemented activities and the final component of the seven-day training programme “Birdwatching as a Factor of Tourism in the Development of Local Communities”, implemented within the PA.CON II project, Development Association NERDA organised the second three-day field training session in the Herzegovina region from 1 to 3 June 2026.

The training programme was designed to provide participants with practical knowledge and skills in birdwatching, introduce them to sites of importance for bird conservation, and strengthen the competencies required for the development and delivery of birdwatching tourism programmes. Through fieldwork, expert-led lectures and practical exercises, participants gained valuable experience and enhanced the skills necessary for promoting sustainable tourism based on natural heritage.

As part of the programme, participants visited Blagaj, including the Buna River Spring and the Blagaj Eco Centre. They also visited Hutovo Blato Nature Park, one of the most significant wetland habitats for birds in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through practical field activities, participants had the opportunity to experience birdwatching first-hand, using professional equipment under expert guidance, while gaining insight into the expectations and needs of birdwatching enthusiasts. The knowledge and experience acquired in natural heritage interpretation and visitor group management will contribute to the effective application of these skills in their future professional activities.

The programme also included an expert lecture highlighting the importance of birdwatching as a specialised tourism product with significant potential for sustainable destination development. Participants further visited the Neum–Svitava area and the Vjetrenica–Popovo Polje site, one of the most valuable areas for biodiversity conservation and the protection of habitats for numerous bird species.

The training brought together students of tourism and related disciplines, future tourist guides, as well as representatives of organisations active in the fields of nature conservation and sustainable development.

By implementing this activity, the PA.CON II project continues to strengthen capacities for the development of birdwatching tourism and the sustainable valorisation of natural resources, contributing to the long-term development of local communities and sustainable tourism destinations.

The project is co-financed under the Interreg VI-A IPA CBC Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro 2021–2027 Programme through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) of the European Union. The project commenced on 1 September 2024 and will be implemented over a period of 27 months.