Speleolog, Vol. 71 No. 1, 2023.
Essays
Why were the speleological explorations of Veternica discontinued?
Nela Bosner
Ruđer Novak
Abstract
The article analyzes the role of speleologists in the management and development of Veternica, a principal cave in the Medvednica Nature Park. Exploration began in 1934, and over several decades, speleologists volunteered to help explore, protect, and develop the cave. When Nature Park took over the management of the cave, restrictions emerged, limiting access for speleologists and revealing the unclear vision of the park administration regarding the importance of speleological exploration. The article points out the rigidity and irrationality of conditions for accessing the cave and the lack of support for speleological exploration from the park administration. Additionally, it emphasizes that the restrictions were imposed without valid legal grounds, especially when compared to other protected areas. The authors express concern about the lack of collaboration between the park administration and speleological associations, calling for a change in attitude and approach towards speleologists and their research in Veternica.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
314785
URI
Publication date:
23.2.2024.
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