Project Launch Workshop Neretva and Trebisnjica Management Project (NTMP) Overall View Project Launch Workshop Mostar Usaid El-Hanbali June 18, 2009

Project Development Objectives The development and global environmental objective of the project is to provide mechanisms for the efficient and equitable water allocation among the users of the NTRB at the transboundary level, and for enhancing the basin ecosystems and biodiversity through improved water resource management

Environmental Issues in NTRB Water quality Biodiversity Salt Intrusion Wastewater treatment & rehabilitation Environmental flows Hydropower and erosion Water Management

Waste from sewage systems Solid waste landfills Saltwater intrusion Organic polluters Heavy metals Nutrients and suspended matter Hazardous waste

Project Components Improved transboundary water resource management Improved management and use of wetlands ecosystems and biodiversity High priority investments for water pollution control Public Participation and Management of Project Implementation

Project Key Indicators Preparation and Adoption of a River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) for the Neretva and Trebisnjica rivers. Reduction of water nutrient and other pollution from municipal and industrial sources in selected municipalities in the basin. Improved maintenance of environmental flows, and ecosystem health. Reduction of salt water intrusion as a result of implementation of a pilot scheme in Neretva Delta.

Lessons learned Involve stakeholders, especially for transboundary projects. Project design included participation from local communities and relevant stakeholders. Need for consistent and accurate data and information are needed to make successful and sound judgments on water management issues. Commitment of local communities to invest is critical for investment sustainability. Projects of a longer duration allow for personal relations and trust to develop, and that can facilitate transboundary cooperation and consensus-building.

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