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Support to the development of an ecological network and spatial data infrastructure for the Sava River
- Rosaline Bruce
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1 Support to the development of an ecological network and spatial data infrastructure for the Sava River
2 2 Alterra-rapport 1195
3 Support to the development of an ecological network and spatial data infrastructure for the Sava River S.A.M. van Rooij T. van der Sluis A. M. Schmidt Alterra-rapport 1195 Alterra, Wageningen, 2005
4 ABSTRACT Rooij, S.A.M. van, T. van der Sluis & A. M. Schmidt, Support to the development of an ecological network and spatial data infrastructure for the Sava river. Wageningen, Alterra, Alterra-rapport blz.; 13 figs.; 7 tables.; 18 refs. This report is one of the results of the project Integrated transboundary River Basin Management Plan for the Sava. The process and (intermediate) results are presented that are obtained on the work packages of geographical and ecological information and ecological network development. The overall project supports the implementation integrated river basin management by the Sava River Basin Commission, which was established in June In expectation of the establishment of this commission, this project was carried out in cooperation with national Nature conservation institutes of the Sava river basin countries (Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro). Keywords: data inventory, ecological networks, GIS, River management ISSN This report can be ordered by paying 35,- to bank account number by name of Alterra Wageningen, IBAN number NL 83 RABO , Swift number RABO2u nl. Please refer to Alterra-rapport This amount is including tax (where applicable) and handling costs Alterra P.O. Box 47; 6700 AA Wageningen; The Netherlands Phone: ; fax: ; No part of this publication may be reproduced or published in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system without the written permission of Alterra. Alterra assumes no liability for any losses resulting from the use of the research results or recommendations in this report. 4 Alterra-rapport 1195 [Alterra-rapport 1195/09/2005]
5 Contents Summary 7 1 Introduction Framework of the project Objectives Developments and adjustments during the project Changes and inhibiting factors in the project environment Introduction on the Sava river 12 2 Method and approaches General approach and working procedure Approach for ecological networks Assessment of ecological networks Ecological network development Approach for storing geographical information Choice for Spatial Data structure Inventory of datasets 23 3 Results Selection of partners Report Workshop 1: Data inventory Inventory of available data Report Workshop 2: Ecological networks Results of the exercise assessment of ecological networks along the Sava Combining nature protection and safety against flooding along the Sava Importance of ecologically functioning riverine floodplains Preview on combining measures of nature protection and safety against flooding along the Sava Design of and implementation of a Spatial Data Infrastructure Inventory of datasets Gap analysis of spatial datasets Metadatatool on available information on the Sava river basin Project proposal for gathering of ecological field data 49 4 Discussion Suitability of and cooperation with involved institutes Suitability and competence of involved institutes Cooperation with and between institutes Available geographical and ecological data Preliminary choice of habitat types and species Conclusions and recommendations Recommendations, related to the Action programme of the ICPDR 55
6 4.4.1 On the action programme of the ICPDR Conclusions and recommendations What opportunity offer flood protection measures for biodiversity along the Sava? 60 References 63 Appendices 1 Spatial data categories according to INSPIRE 65 2 Report workshop 1 Data inventory 69 3 Description of selected habitat types (EUNIS-classification) 79 4 Inventory of data in Croatia and Slovenia 81 5 Report workshop 2 Ecological networks 87 6 Selected species for wetlands 93 7 Selected species for grasslands 95 8 Metadata Global and European datasets 97 9 Proposal for gathering field work Alterra-rapport 1195
7 Summary This report is one of the results of the project Integrated transboundary River Basin Management Plan for the Sava. The process and (intermediate) results are presented that are obtained on the work packages of geographical and ecological information and ecological network development. The overall project supports the implementation integrated river basin management by the Sava River Basin Commission, which was established in June In expectation of the establishment of this commission, this project was carried out in cooperation with national Nature conservation institutes of the Sava river basin countries (Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia- Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro). Geographical and ecological information For an integrated river basin management and the development of an ecological network, spatial geographical and ecological data are required. For these purposes, an overview of the available data in the four Sava river basin countries was acquired. There appeared to be large differences between the geographical and ecological data availability between the Sava river basin countries. In Slovenia and Croatia, many data are present and an overview of data present was easily obtained. In Bosnia- Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro, only little data were present and no overview of available data existed. Therefore, an inventory of geographical and ecological data was carried out for Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro by the national institutes. The metadata of the available data were stored in an electronic meta database that is made available through the internet (http://webgrs.wur.nl/cgi/projects/sava-metadata/). Important for a basin wide approach, as the Sava River Basin Commission will apply, the exchange of data between the Sava river basin countries is required. The involved institutes acknowledge this and have the ambition to facilitate the exchange of data between the institutes for such purposes. Agreed was that the Croatian institute will coordinate and facilitate the exchange and management of spatial data. To facilitate this, a Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) was designed, purchased and implemented at the Croatian institute. For the actual exchange of data, the institutes need to agree on the user restrictions of the data exchanged. Ecological network development For the exchange of practises and transfer of knowledge on ecological networks two workshops were organised with the involved institutes. In these workshops, a shared language and understanding of the principles and approaches of ecological networks was obtained. A method for assessing and designing ecological networks was handed and practised on the Sava river basin. The first steps and decisions were made by the participants towards the assessment and design of an ecological network along the Sava river, as a selection of habitats of interest, definition of the study area and a preliminary choice of focal species. These are intermediate results on which can be build further in future projects. As the Alterra-rapport
8 collection and collation of data was not feasible at the moment of the workshop, as agreements on the exchange and use of data between the institutes were not made yet, outlines of an ecological network could not be designed. However, capacity has been build and preporatory work has been done for the design of ecological network in a future project. Also, some preliminary conclusions could be drawn on the ecological networks along the Sava. The understanding of the functioning of ecological networks and the required ecological data (the quality of habitat and the presence of focal species) also enables to make choices in the gathering of field data. As an exercise and as a start for further research, the Bosnian institute drew up a plan for the transboundary gathering of ecological field data along the Sava. Conclusions This project has laid a base on the the future development of a GIS for the Sava River Basin Commissoin and the development of an ecological network along the Sava river. The data inventory and the spatial data infrastructure offer the opportunity of collecting, and exchanging and combining data that are required for an integral transboundary river management including nature protection. The required next step is to make agreements between the involved institutes on the exchange of data and on user restrictions, and to make agreements with the Sava River Basin Commission for the use of data and the management of the data infrastructure. When agreements have been made, the selected data, required for the assessment of the functional ecological networks can be collected. For the ecological network assessment, habitats and species provisionally have been selected. Further, the Sava river offers good opportunities for the development of combined retention and nature areas. In the framework of the Action Programme of the ICPDR, a a long-term flood protection and retention strategy will be developed, basied on the enhancement of natural retention. When measures for both safety and nature in natural retention areas will be taken, there is very good opportunity for a safe Sava river basin with a high biodiversity. Recommendations on the required research and actions to utilize this opportunity are made. 8 Alterra-rapport 1195
9 1 Introduction 1.1 Framework of the project This report is one of the results of the project Integrated transboundary River Basin Management Plan for the SAVA which is funded by Partners for Water and lead by the International Agricultural Centre (IAC). Alterra was contracted to carry out parts of the project in the field of Geographical Information (GIS), Ecological networks and the Water Framework Directive. This report is the report of the activities and results in the field of GIS and Ecology. The overall project supports the implementation of priority actions on integrated river basin management as indicated in the Interim Action Plan for the Sava River. The content of the project plan was based on various discussions with the Interim Sava river basin Commission and has been tuned with the UNDP/GEF Programme on the Sava. 1.2 Objectives Starting point of this project was the project proposal, made in Elements in this proposal that was dealt with by Alterra were: Support to the drafting of an ecological network along the Sava (as part of a future ecologically sound flood protection plan) Support to the establishment of a basin wide GIS of the Sava River. Support in the field of water quality, typology and reference criteria of aquatic ecosystems. 1.3 Developments and adjustments during the project Changes and inhibiting factors in the project environment The project environment of this project was very complex. Unexpected conditions and developments necessitated us to adapt the approach, focus and final results in the run of the project, tailored to the situation. This in order to contribute most effective to the original objectives, as put down in the project plan. The most important unexpected developments and inhibiting factors are the following: Delay in the establishment of the Sava River Basin Commission In December 2002, the establishment of the Sava River Basin Commission was foreseen by the end of This was delayed several times, and finally took place at the 27 th - 29 th of June 2005, just before the end of this project. As the Sava River Basin Commission and the accompanying Expert Groups were the beneficiaries of this project, their involvement was of crucial importance for this project. In first Alterra-rapport
10 instance, activities in the framework of this project have been delayed, in expectation of the establishment of the Sava River Basin Commission. Later on, it was decided to identify and involve other relevant beneficiaries. The result was a delay in the actual start of the project and the dedication of a significant amount of time to identify and involve relevant national institutes in the four Sava river basin countries. Changes in focus, approach and products As new beneficiaries, national institutes on nature conservation in the four Sava river basin countries have been identified and involved in the project. Together representatives of these institutes, the needs and interests that fit in the scope of this project were identified and discussed. Based on that and on later communication, the focus and approach adopted in this project was adapted to their needs. Most important decisions during the project were the following: Observed was a large difference in data availability, data infrastructure and acquaintance with European directives between Slovenia and Croatia on the one hand and Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro on the other. Decided was to focus on the assistance of and knowledge transfer to Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro, to level out this difference a bit. The role of the institutes of Slovenia and Croatia was to share and exchange their knowledge, practices and experiences with the other countries and with each other. On the field of water quality, typology and reference conditions, it appeared that the needs of the institutes of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia- Montenegro were on gaining knowledge on the implementation of the Water Framework Directive (WFD), as in the setting up of a typology and reference conditions. Therefore the focus in this work package was on the WFD, typology and reference conditions. In discussion with the beneficiary institutes, training in this field appeared to be the most appropriate way of knowledge transfer. The issue of water quality was not further addressed. In the original project plan, setting up a GIS for the Sava River Basin Commission and advising on the implementation and further management of the GIS were planned. As the establishment of the Sava Commission took more time than was foreseen and the cooperation with the ISPDR GISexpert group did not work out, the final products have been slightly changed. During a workshop with the representatives of the beneficiary institutes of the Sava river basin countries, it was concluded that the establishment of a Sava river basin wide GIS was not feasible under the present conditions. Therefore, it was proposed to design and implement a spatial data infrastructure (SDI) by means of which all the involved institutes in the present project (and follow up projects) are able to exchange metadata and/or data. Depending on the user restrictions of the datasets the data can be made available as well to the Sava Commission for the purpose of transboundary river basin management. 10 Alterra-rapport 1195
11 Priority and capacity of beneficiary institutes for contribution to the project As a result of the delays in the project and the fixed end date of the project, the timeframe for carrying out the data inventory and work on ecological networks was very short (6 months). This meant that there was a very tight planning of activities and (intermediate) results, which was only feasible with full cooperation of the beneficiary institutes and by bringing the required capacity on the institutes into action. During the project it appeared that the priority given to this project by the beneficiary institutes and the capacity that was contributed to this project was not always optimal. This, and also the little time available, often resulted in not or late carrying out the agreed actions. As a consequence: the data inventory is not complete, however a good basis is laid. It was not feasible to select and gather data to gather them in a database. Here for, an extensive discussion with the institutes on user restrictions would be required, for which was no time in this framework. the work in the field of ecological network has the nature of capacity building. As the required spatial information was not available in time, it was not feasible to design an ecological network along the Sava, but the methods and approaches have been discussed and exercised on the Sava river area. As the Ecological institute of Bosnia-Herzegovina had enough capacity and priority for this project, they were asked to set up proposal for the gathering of field data along the Sava river, using the information and knowledge that was transferred and exchanged during the workshops. The writing of this proposal was meant as an exercise to apply the knowledge and insights that were gathered, to seek cooperation with their neighbouring countries and can be used as a starting point for a future project Final products The final products that were achieved are the following: Overview of metadata, on the biotic and abiotic data on the Sava river basin of the Sava river basin countries. An electronic metadata tool, in which metadata are gathered. Facilitating exchange of practices and discussion on the storage of ecological data in accordance with requirements of the European legislation. Design, purchase and implementation of a Spatial Data Infrastructure for the exchange of spatial data between the Sava river basin Countries Capacity building on the assessment and design of ecological networks, tailored to the situation in the Sava river basin. Contribution to the training in the field of the Water Framework Directive. Proposal for the gathering of field data along the Sava River. Alterra-rapport
12 1.4 Beneficiaries Originally, the Sava Commission was the beneficiary of this project. As this Commission was established later as foreseen, other beneficiaries were chosen. It was then decided to identify national institutes or ministries of the four Sava river basin countries that are most relevant for the project and the results foreseen. The identified institutes that were involved are listed in Table 1. Table 1 Beneficiary institutes of the four Sava river basin countries that were involved in this project. Country Institute/Ministry Location Slovenia Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Ljubljana Conservation Croatia State Institute for Nature Protection Zagreb Ministry of Culture Sarajevo Bosnia-Herzegovina Center for Ecology and Natural Resources (CEPRES), Sarajevo Faculty of Science University of Sarajevo Agricultural Institute Banja Luka Serbia-Montenegro Institute for nature conservation of Serbia Beograd 1.5 Introduction on the Sava river The Sava River, which is 861 km long, is the Danube s second largest sub catchment area (95,719 km 2 ) after the Tisza. Based on its discharge (average 1,564 m 3 /s), the Sava is by far the largest tributary of the Danube (DPRP, 1999; ICPDR, 2004). Its catchment area is located in the four former Yugoslavian countries Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro (Figure 1). Its main tributaries, sorted from the source downwards, are the Ljubljanica (flows through Ljubljana), Savinja, Mirna, Krka, Sotla/Sutla, Kupa/Kolpa, Lonja, Orljava, Bosut, Una, Vrbas, Ukrina, Bosna, Tinja, Lukovac, Drina and Kolubara rivers Slovenia The Sava has two main sources, both in the north-western, Alpine region of Slovenia. The spring of Sava Dolinka is in Zelenci near Kranjska Gora. The other leg of the river originates as Savica ("little Sava") and then flows into Lake Bohinj, which it leaves as Sava Bohinjka. Both legs of meet at Radovljica, and the river is known as the Sava past that point. The Sava then flows through the Sava valley towards Croatia. Croatia The Sava River runs through Croatia for 510 km and is the largest river in the country. It is the border with Slovenia for 2 km and with Bosnia and Herzegovina for 311 km. Its catchment area is 25,000 km2, which is 44% of the national territory. In Croatia, the largest alluvial wetlands in the Danube Basin are situated (DPRP, 1999). The Sava tributaries are important for the preservation of the high biodiversity (Schneider-Jacoby, 2003). They lead into the Central Sava river basin. With 1,120 km 2 the Central Sava river basin is the largest floodplain ecosystem in the Danube River basin (13% of the total area of remaining floodplains along the Danube and its larger tributaries. However, this is only 38% of the original surface of areas that were frequently inundated before the flood control programme started. 12 Alterra-rapport 1195
13 As a result of the flood control programme (1972), large alluvial wetlands were preserved in the seventies as retention areas (e.g. Lonjsko Polje). These retention areas are not only a key site for flood protection in Croatia, but also for the whole Sava river basin (Scheider-Jacoby, 2003). Bosnia-Herzegovina After Barudanovic et al., The Sava river is the natural boundary of the northern area of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Croatia and Serbia-Montenegro. The catchment area of the Sava river (including Sava s major tributaries Una, Vrbas, Bosna and Drina) provides 75,5% of water resources of Bosnia and Herzegovina (NEAP, 2003) and its catchment area makes up 75 % of the of the country (51,129 km 2 ). The majority of the Bosnian population inhabits this region. The catchment area of the Sava river in Bosnia-Herzegovina is highly heterogeneous: In morphology: small rivers originate from high peaks of Bosnian mountains (Maglić, Volujak, Bjelašnica, Igman, Vranica, Vlašić, Klekovača, Šator, Osječenica etc.), smaller subpannonian mountains ( Majevica, Motajica, Kozara, Grmeč ) and hills, leading to the Pannonian lowland. In Climate: a vertical gradient exists of the high Dinarids submediteranian to subalpine and alpine areas. On the horizontal profile, the climate of the Sava river catchment area is under influence of the sub-mediteranian climate in the canyons of river Una and Vrbas, under the temperate continental climate in the region of central Dinarids, and under the continental climate in the northern part of Bosnia and specific subpannonian and pannonian along Sava river, which is similar to submediteranian climate. In geological substrate; huge part of this area is situated on the calcareous rocks of different age. Besides, there are certain parts on the siliceous rocks. One of the largest complexes with siliceous substrata is situated in the upper flow of Vrbas River, so called mountain Vranica region. Peculiar characteristic of this area is presence of peridote and serpentine rocks, which make a broad zone of ofiolits and extend from east to west part of Bosnia (Višegrad, Olovo, Krivaja river valley, Žepče, Maglaj, Banja Luka, Prijedor). In soils, as a result of different type of geological substrata. This heterogeneity caused a high level of landscape diversity and a high biodiversity, among which many endemic species. In Sava catchment area in Bosnia-Herzegovina two national parks are present: Kozara and Sutjeska. Study for establishing the third national park in area of Una catchment area is in process. Serbia-Montenegro (After Aitic et al., 2005) The Sava River and its major right tributary Drina, forms the natural border between Serbia-Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina. The Sava River with all tributaries constitutes 30% of water resources of Serbia and its catchment area occupies 31,046 Alterra-rapport
14 km 2. As in Bosnia, the Sava river originates from the highest Dinaric peaks. Coming from south to the north along major tributary Drina River, a great diversity of soil as well as flora and fauna can be found. In the south there are different types of geological substrata. In Dinaric part, different types of calcareous soils are present. Flora and fauna of these parts of the Sava catchment area have many endemic, glacial and tertiary relics. In the upstream canyons of the tributaries a great diversity of flora and fauna can be found, because they represent refugial centers. The valley of the Sava River is situated on deep alluvial sediments, where hydromorphous type of soil with many oxbows, reed lands and wetlands. The diversity of flora and fauna in this part is not very high, as the larger part of this region is under agricultural exploitation. The only piece of natural vegetation is situated in and around two protected areas Obedska bara and Zasavica. Here we have communities of old oak woods. Figure 1 Location of the Sava River and its main tributaries. 14 Alterra-rapport 1195
15 2 Method and approaches 2.1 General approach and working procedure As the Sava Commission was established later as foreseen, new beneficiaries were to be found. For this, national institutes or Ministries of the four Sava river basin countries were identified that are most relevant for the project and its foreseen results. Point of departure was to involve them in the project as much as possible in order to: Get a good overview of available information in the countries itself (often not available in English); Promote transboundary cooperation between institutes of the four countries of former Yugoslavia; Promote exchange of information and approaches between institutes in the four former Yugoslavian countries; Capacity building by presenting and applying approaches that are part of contemporary sustainable water and nature management (sustainable biodiversity, Natura 2000, Water Framework Directive). The working procedure in the project was as follows (see Table 2): Inception mission March 2004 In an inception mission in March 2004 contact persons of ministries and national institutes have been visited to assess the needs and the degree in which data are available. It appeared that in Slovenia and Croatia many suitable data are present. In the Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro however, much less data appeared to be available and much was unclear about the existence and location of suitable data. Therefore, it was decided to focus on the inventory of the data and knowledge present on biotic and abiotic aspects of the Sava river basin on Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro. Renewal of the work plan After new beneficiary institutes were identified and their interest and needs were assessed, the work plan was revised. Main activities that were scheduled were: Assesment of ecological data within the Sava River Basin, with focus on Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro Data management. Advice on the choice of databases, support in the field of data management. Training / Workshop on Natura 2000 and Protected areas network within Sava River Basin. Inventory of ecological data Biodiversity assessment and flood management The activities that could be achieved was of course closely linked with the capacity that the beneficiary institutes could invest in this project. Alterra-rapport
16 The activities in this work plan were presented by IAC to these institutes and they expressed their interest to cooperate. The Netherlands Slovenia Croatia Bosnia-Herzegovina Serbia-Montenegro Original workplan Inception mission Renewal of workplan Visits to the beneficiary institutes 2005 Contracting of institutes Carrying out data inventory Carrying out data inventory Workshop 1: aviailable ecological data Workshop 2: Ecological networks Meeting on SDI Meeting on SDI Project proposal Figure 2 Diagram of working procedure in the project and the countries involved in the activities that are carried out. The involved institutes in the Netherlands were IAC and Alterra, for involved institutes in the other countries mentioned, see Table 2. Visits to the benificary institutes In November and December 2004 the institutes have been visited to explore the availability of ecological and basic data and maps and to discuss how an inventory of available data of the Sava catchment area could be set up in the framework of this project. It appeared that the institutes in Slovenia and Croatia could present a good overview on available ecological and relevant GIS data, and that they had no capacity available or benefit to put a lot a work in the gathering of metadata of the Sava river catchment area. Agreed was that Alterra would make an overview based on the presentations of data, that would be filled up or corrected by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation and the State Institute for Nature Protection of Croatia. Further, the institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation indicated that it had little capacity to participate in the foreseen workshops in the framework of this project. They could only participate if their expenses for the required time were paid for. As the institutes in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro had to start from scratch, they were contracted to carry out a data and expert inventory. Also the preparations for and participation of the planned workshop were included in the contract. 16 Alterra-rapport 1195
17 Contracting of institutes The institutes of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia-Montenegro were contracted to prepare an overview of metadata of ecological and other data of the river catchment area of the Sava river, including its tributaries, on their territory. The requested overview was on fields mentioned in box 1. Metadata forms for data and for experts where drawn up in dialogue with the institutes that would carry out the inventories, tailored to the foreseen use of the metadata. Further, a metadata tool was designed and made available on the internet to store the metadata in a easy to use manner. Further, the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation was contracted to make preparations for and participate in the Workshop on available ecological data. Box 1: Topics on which data and expert inventory were requested Overview of available ecological data: (Restricted to wetlands and riverine ecosystems) - Species protected by national policies - Red list species (of national red lists if available, or otherwise red lists of IUCN) - species that are protected by the European Habitat and Bird directive - endemic species - characteristic riverine species - Also attention for invasive species Overview of basic data (covering entire Sava catchment area): - Topography (which projection system?) - remote sensing images - land use - protected areas - hydrological data, if relevant for flooding and biodiversity Overview of additional abiotic data (covering entire Sava catchment area): - Physical geographical regions - Soil - Location of river Sava and tributaries - Flooded areas - Catchment area of the Sava river - Elevation, Digital Terrain Model Overview of ecological experts and of relevant expert institutes Workshop 1: Available data On 4 and 5 april 2005, an two day workshop was held in Zagreb, hosted by the State Institute for Nature Protection of Croatia, titled: Available data on the Sava river basin and requirements for the analyses of ecological networks along the Sava. Invited were delegates of all beneficiary institutes with experience in the field of ecology and/or GIS and experts of the study area. Alterra-rapport
18 Workshop 2: Ecological networks On 30 and 31th of June 2005, a second two day workshop was held in Sarajevo, titled: Ecological Network development for the Sava river basin. Objectives of this workshop were: Recapture of progress / decisions workshop April Overview of available data on selected riverine habitats Selection of suitable species for the development of an ecological network of these habitats Putting distribution data on the map: Identification of important habitat areas (how does the ecological network now look like?) Analysis of the spatial cohesion of the ecological network and proposals for improvement GIS: feasibility of gathering data in GIS; how to deal with user restrictions? Invited were GIS and ecology specialists of the beneficiary institutes and asked was to bring specialists of species or sites along the Sava of interest. Meeting of GIS-experts On 21 st and 22 nd of June 2005, a delegation from the State Institute for Nature Protection of Croatia has visited Alterra. They have had working meetings with experts on GIS and data exchange of Alterra and have set up an infrastructure for data exchange for data on the Sava river basin (Spatial Data Infrastructure; SDI). A visit of an expert of Alterra for the implementation of the SDI in the Croatian institute was planned, but is postponed to September as a result of the required custom formalities for the import of the server. Making proposal for field inventory As the institute from Bosnia-Herzegovina had the time, interest and capacity, they have written a project proposal for transboundary gathering of ecological field data along the Sava river in the framework of this project. This project proposal builds further on the knowledge exchange and transfer in the workshops and can be used a base for next projects in which opportunities exist for gathering field data along the Sava. 2.2 Approach for ecological networks Biological diversity is highly dependent on the quality, quantity and spatial cohesion of natural areas. Fragmentation severely affects the spatial cohesion of habitat and in this way the abundance of species. Due to fragmentation and environmental pressure biodiversity decreases: we are rapidly losing species that cannot survive anymore in the present landscape. 18 Alterra-rapport 1195
19 2.2.1 Assessment of ecological networks To see whether a landscape functions as an effective network for certain species, ecological networks in a landscape can be assessed. This can be done by focusing on focal species. These focal species are indicative for other species; information for the selected species can be extrapolated for the group of species they represent. With an ecological network assessment it can be shown whether available (fragments of) habitat areas are large and coherent enough for focal species to survive on the long term. This approach is useful to compare conditions for sustainable biodiversity in the current situation with the situation in development scenarios. Also, options for the improvement of the ecological network can be detected. To define the ecological network function, an analysis method has been developed based on the theory of metapopulations and ecological networks (see Box 2). The metapopulation theory states that in fragmented landscapes populations of animal species do not live in a continuous habitat but live in a network of habitat patches. The habitat patches are mutually connected by dispersal movements (Levins 1970, Andrén, 1994, Hanski & Gilpin, 1997, Opdam, 2002). Whether an ecological network can sustain a persistent population or not, depends on: characteristics of a species (habitat preference, home range, dispersal capacity) the amount, shape and area of habitat patches in a landscape connectivity of the landscape, which defines how easily species can move to other habitat patches (spatial configuration of habitat patches). The habitat types analyzed are aquatic (river, oxbows, ponds) and terrestrial (riparian forest, meadows, sandy islands and steep river banks. The situation is assessed for a number of relevant species for each ecosystem. The selected species include some shortrange species, e.g. reptiles, amphibians, mammals, which are all vulnerable for fragmentation. In addition, some bird species are included in the analysis. Alterra-rapport
20 Box 2: Concept of metapopulations and ecological networks When natural habitat becomes fragmented as a result of landscape changes, small isolated patches are often too small to sustain viable populations. These small, local populations are always at risk from extinction, due to local disasters or stochastic processes, e.g. fire, pollution, or storms. Occasionally breeding may also fail, with disastrous consequences for small populations of few individuals. So the small populations regularly become extinct. When these local populations are connected in an ecological network, the total area of habitat patches can offer possibilities for persistent populations of species. Large populations with a very low probability of extinction, the so-called key populations, constitute the strong parts in a metapopulation occupying an ecological network (Verboom et al., 2001). From these key patches a net flow of individuals to other habitat patches in an ecological network takes place. In this way immigration occurs from key patches to local populations that became extinct. If there are many patches this process can increase overall sustainability. We consider this a metapopulation (Levins 1970, Andrén 1994). A metapopulation is sustainable if the chance of extinction is less than 5% in 100 years (Shaffer 1981, Verboom et al., 2001). Schematic presentation of a metapopulation; In green habitat patches that sustain local populations, the arrows represent movements of individuals on dispersal. Standards used to decide whether a metapopulation is sustainable or not are specific for each species. Small, short living species (for example, insects) are more vulnerable and require more individuals for a persistent population than larger, long living species (like the Beaver). For less mobile species habitat patches should be situated closer together to form part of a coherent ecological network. Further, the area demands of e.g. insects for habitat are smaller than for larger species as Roedeer. 20 Alterra-rapport 1195
21 2.2.2 Ecological network development Based on the theory of networks, it was proposed to use the following phases to develop an ecological network: inventory of available and existing data (see box 1) selection of priority ecosystems selection of focal species data compilation of focal species in database map collection of ecosystems/land use in GIS a workshop analysis of existing land cover / habitat maps and species data design of the ecological network, in a workshop, with specialists involved. During the process this work plan had to be adjusted; the start of the network development was late, despite the fact that this plan was prepared in May, approval was received only in October from PfW, but various other causes resulted in a delay. Finally the approach was changed as follows: inventory of available and existing data on species and habitats joint selection of priority ecosystems (workshop 1) joint selection of focal species (workshop 2) a workshop analysis of existing land cover / habitat maps and species data design of the ecological network, in a workshop, with specialists involved. In particular the availability of land cover, habitat, topographical maps etc. formed a bottleneck; they were partly not available, or formal agreements were lacking to come to exchange or sharing of maps. So the last two steps, the analysis of maps and drawing of the ecological network could not be done in the way it was meant to be done. Instead improvisation was required with Remote Sensing maps, based on Landsat TM, covering the entire Sava River basin. Alterra-rapport
22 Box 3: Development of ecological networks If wildlife is spread over large areas, in low numbers, and if these remaining areas are too small, wildlife species will disappear sooner or later. An answer to this problem is the development of an ecological network, linking nature areas by means of corridors and small habitat patches (Vos et al., 2002; Van der Sluis et al. 2004; Bouwma et al. 2004). The development of ecological networks is part of European policy (Bern Convention, Habitat directive, Natura 2000), and has resulted in the development of the Pan European Ecological Network PEEN. European ecological networks especially can be beneficial for large herbivores like red deer or top predators like wolves, bear, lynx and otter (Van der Sluis et al. 2004, Foppen et al. 2000). However, in first instance many small organisms will benefit from improvements in spatial cohesion and expansion of natural habitats. Many European countries are attempting to realize ecological networks at a national or regional scale (Rientjes & Roumelioti, 2003). Example of an ecological network: Pan European Ecological Network for Centra & Eastern Europe (from: Hootsmans & Kampf, 2004). 22 Alterra-rapport 1195
23 2.3 Approach for storing geographical information Choice for Spatial Data structure The original aim of the present project was to establish a Sava river basin wide Geographic Information System (GIS). End user of this GIS was supposed to be the Sava Commission. The GIS should support the Sava Commission in transboundary integrated river basin management. As the establishment of the Sava Commission took more time than was foreseen and the cooperation with the ISPDR GIS-expert group did not work out, the aim of the GIS work package has been slightly changed. In discussion with the involved institutes, it was decided to chose for the design an implementation of a spatial data infrastructure (SDI) Inventory of datasets Within the present project an inventory has been made of spatial datasets at different scale levels, namely Global, European and national level. For the purpose of this inventory the data spatial data components (data categories) that are defined within the European initiative Infrastructure for Spatial Information for Europe (http://www.ec-gis.org/inspire/) have been used as a starting point (see Appendix 8). The present project is focused on integrated water management so only the spatial data components (data categories) for both water and nature management should considered. As the cooperation with the GIS-expert group of ISPDR did not take place and the institutes involved in the present project are all working in the field of nature conservation the inventory of datasets has been mainly focused on nature management (biodiversity). Alterra-rapport
24 24 Alterra-rapport 1195
25 3 Results 3.1 Selection of partners The identified partner for the project is the Sava River Basin commission. Due to delays, this commission formally was installed only two days before the project ended. In different brief visits to the region it was assessed what good potential partners are, that are also active or should be involved in the ecological network development. In March 2004 all Sava river basin countries were visited, and the project was presented, with the aim to: - define priorities for the countries (in regard of support for the WFD, ecological network development and GIS) - assess their needs and requirements - identify partners Based on these visits, contacts were made with research institutes; governmental institutes for nature conservation, government officials from the departments (or ministries) of water affairs, and environmental planning. Based on this, contacts were established with the relevant research institutes, and at the same time contacts were maintained with the government officials responsible for nature conservation, biodiversity or ecological networks (Table 2). The overview presented in Table 2 is not complete, but for the countries involved these were the most important contacts. Table 2 Involved insitutes in the Sava river basin countries and contact persons that contributed to the project. Country Institute Person(s) Slovenia Inst. of the Republic of Slovenia for nature Mrs. Debeljak, Mr. Vrcek conservation Croatia Min. of Culture State Inst. for Nature Protection Mr. Draganovic Mrs. Radovic, Mr. Trenc, Mrs. Amidzic Bosnia- Hercegovina Nat. Park Lonjsko Polje Faculty of Sciences/ CEPRES Fed. Min. of Envir. planning Min. of physical planning, Rep. Srpska Agricultural Institute, Rep. Srpska Mr. Gugic Prof. Redzic, Mrs Barudanovic Mr. Cero, Mrs. Korac-Mehmedovic Mr. Laganin Mr. Predic Serbia & Montenegro Inst. for nature conservation of Serbia Inst. for Biol. Research Mrs. Amidzic, Mr. Brankovic, Mrs.. Dimovic, Mr.. Marincic, Mr. Ajtic Mr. Karadzic, Mr. Paunovic Alterra-rapport
26 3.2 Report Workshop 1: Data inventory The first workshop was held at 4 th and 5 th of April 2005 in Zagreb and was titled: Available data on the Sava river basin and requirements for the analyses of ecological networks along the Sava. All four beneficiary institutes where represented and had prepared presentations for the workshop. Issues addressed in this workshop were: - available spatial ecological data in the Sava river basin - The approach of functional ecological networks. - Approach of ecological network development in the Sava basin countries - Selection of available data that is suitable for the analyses and development of a tentative ecological network along the Sava River and its tributaries. - Preparation of an outline for the development of a GIS for the Sava river basin - Exchanging experiences on the set up of an ecological network and the use of GIS and databases for Natura 2000 purposes. A full report is attached to this report in appendix 2. The most important results of this workshop were: - Presentations of all beneficiary institutes on available biotic and abiotic (GIS)data in their respective countries. - Presentations (by institutes of Croatia, Slovenia and Alterra) on ecological networks and discussions on differences in approaches. - An agreed definition of the study area: The floodplain area along the Sava river (focused on selection of habitats/habitat types) including areas in the river basin that are functionally connected with areas in the Sava floodplain. - Selection of species groups of most interest for this project (based on data availability, useful for the approach of functional ecological networks) o Amphibians/Reptiles o birds - Selection of habitat types, agreed was to focus on: o Wet grasslands o Oxbow lakes, ponds and open water o Alluvial forest; hardwood forest / softwood forest These habitat types have been defined by using the EUNIS classification (see appendix 3). - Discussions on GIS for the Sava river basin. The importance of a joint GIS is recognised by all participants. - The Croatian participants indicated that they are interested to play a central role in the setting up- and development of a GIS database. Other partners support this idea. - Available data, required for the next workshop on ecological networks, were selected and participants were requested to send these to Alterra. Alterra would collate and print these data, to use them in the next workshop on ecological networks. All partners thought that the sending of this data in time was feasible. 26 Alterra-rapport 1195
27 - The data inventories by the institutes in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia- Montenegro were not yet finalised. The following was concluded in the evaluation of the workshop: o The Slovenian participants had doubts about the surplus value of this project for the institute. However exchange of experiences and knowledge was interesting. o The Croatian participants found the workshop very useful, especially the exchange of experiences and state of affaires with GIS. o The participants from Bosnia Herzegovina found the workshop more than useful; for Bosnia there is much to learn of the experiences and state of affairs in Croatia and Slovenia. To catch up is very difficult and ambitious but this project is a start. o The participants of Serbia Montenegro had to leave early; so they could not give their opinion on the workshop. 3.3 Inventory of available data An inventory was made of the data that were owned by the institutes of Croatia and Slovenia. The results are presented in appendix 4. Both in Bosnia and Serbia metadata on available ecological data and/or maps were compiled. Alterra contracted CEPRES in Sarajevo and the Institute for Nature Conservation in Belgrade. These inventory studies were done in a period of only three months, and therefore they can not be considered complete. In particular since the information is dispersed due to the wars which were taking place in the area. The Bosnian data inventory shows that available data is fragmented. The data that exist is often for one specific area. Only few studies have a complete coverage of the Bosnian territory, due to recent changes in geography of the countries. Since then funds for surveys and field investigations were very limited. Vascular plants are best covered in existing data, but still the data is limited. For plants a database is available of species, including endemic species. Most sources assessed in this overview date back from the period before 1990 and only few are more recent. Most recent publications have all a local coverage (Brcko, Vranica), except for the list of botanical forms for the Red Data book of Bosnia and Herzegovina. For birds, 6 publications were found, of which only one dates from For fishes only 3 publications are listed for different rivers, despite the fact that it is an important group with regard of endemic species. Even more striking is that for mammals, generally a group which is well covered in research, no publications are available, except for a list of 10 endangered species from Brcko district. Similar for amphibian species, 7 Habitats directive species are known to exist in the Sava catchment area. Alterra-rapport
28 Box 3 Differences in approaches in ecological network development In the workshop significant time was spent on the discussion on different approaches to develop ecological networks. Both the Croatian and Slovenian Institute had been involved in the process of the development of a national ecological network. Participants of both countries presented the approach adopted and the final results. Approach in the development of a national ecological network in Slovenia In Slovenia, the development of the National Ecological Network (NEN) was coordinated by the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning. The ecological network is based on the sites that are indicated or proposed Natura2000 sites. The National Ecological Network has a certain, guiding, policy status. For the indication of NATURA 2000 sites and the development of the Ecological network, the following steps were taken: - Gathering of available scientific data, preparing basic ecological data for habitat types and species (e.g. basic biological characteristics, distribution, population status, threats) - reports were prepared by experts from various national institutions (both governmental and NGOs) In the next phase, propositions for Natura 2000 sites for Slovenia were prepared. Designation of Natura 2000 sites Birds directive SPA (special protection area) Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Habitats directive National proposition for psci (prop. site of Community importance) checking psci (EC in SI) adopted SCI (EC) adopted SAC (SI) And information on ecological requirements, conservation status of habitat types and species and their representation in Slovenia was prepared. This has resulted in: - 6 special protection areas (SPA), coverage: ha (22,8 % of Slovenia) proposed sites of community importance (psci), coverage: ha (31,6 % of Slovenia) The SPA and psci sites together cover ha (35,5 % of Slovenia). Finally, between Natura 2000 sites ecological corridors were added, connecting important areas in the resulting national ecological network. Approach in the development of a national ecological network in Croatia Also in Croatia, the national ecological network is based on the sites that are indicated or proposed Natura2000 sites. Also here, the National Ecological Network has a certain, guiding, policy status. The areas that constitute the National Ecological Network were selected with GIS, based on the following data: - Data on distribution of focal species and habitats (Birds Directive, Habitats Directive; national Red Lists, endemic species) - Distribution maps for focal species and habitats (based on results of project: Red Data Books and Habitat mapping) 9 28 Alterra-rapport 1195
29 - Identification of sites important for focal species and habitats - Other GIS data, e.g. Ramsar and UNESCO sites and Prime Butterfly Areas This resulted in a map of the proposed National ecological network. National parks and nature parks cover 85% of the protected sites in the national network (10% of Croatian territory). A preliminary evaluation based on Natura 2000 criteria was performed on the selected sites in the Ecological network. A problem appeared to be the lack of data on the distribution and abundance of target species/habitats for Natura GIS analysis Analysis Designated areas Sites-habitats Sites-species Corridors Ecological network Consultations Also in Croatia, between Natura 2000 sites ecological corridors were added, straightforward and simple, connecting important areas in the national ecological network. Approach ecological networks presented by Alterra The approach of ecological networks adopted by Alterra is based on the metapopulation theory. An ecological network is defined as a network of habitat patches of a species of interest, which are mutually connected by dispersal movements of individuals of this species. When a population in one habitat patch extincts as a result of normal stochastically fluctuations in populations size, the patch can be recolonized by this species by colonization from another habitat patch (see also paragraph 2.2). A sustainable ecological, or habitat network requires a certain area and coherence of habitat patches, which is species specific. So, from this perspective an ecological network: - Is a functional ecological network, and defined by the spatial characteristics of a species; here for focal species can be used that represent a range of species with similar habitat preferences area requirement and dispersal capacity. - has no policy or political status. This approach can be used to analyze the ecological networks in a landscape for species of interest and evaluate if it is large and coherent enough for a sustainable populations and to identify requirements to make it sustainable. This approach can also be used to develop and underpin a political ecological network with a policy status. In that case it, the ecological networks of a range of species should be evaluated and improved in such degree that it functions as a sustainable network for a range of species (see van Rooij et al., 2003a & 2003b). Alterra-rapport
30 For the data inventory in Serbia-Montenegro, metadata were gathered on data on hydrology (29), birds (12), mammals (9), insects (5; on Cerambycidae) fish (5), plants (4), amphibians (1) and reptiles (1). The literature of the library of the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia was consulted. Many of these publications are on a specific site and/or specific species or contain general information on an area that is much broader than the Sava river basin (e.g. former Yugoslavia). On the nature reserve Obedska Bara, relatively many data are present (birds, plants). Distribution data on a national level only are available for mammals. Further, relatively many publications mentioned are on, rare, relict species that occur in the upstream parts of the tributaries of the Sava river. The data that are listed are almost all analogue and comprise books, scientific and applicative papers. Worth mentioning is a review of vegetation with characteristic species and analysis in the lower part of the Sava river basin from Belgrade to Šabac by the University of Belgrade from On flora and fauna same databases exist.the Institute for nature conservation of Serbia however has recently started working on the foundation of the digital data base on protected areas in Serbia- Montenegro. Due to lack of long-term studies and monitoring there is little known on the distribution on species in the Sava river basin. In the past few years, continual monitoring of some specific areas were conducted, and the foundation of data bases is in progress. An example is the monitoring of the European beaver in the Zasavica and Obedska bara in the framework of a reintroduction program. Further, it appeared in the workshop that scanned topographical maps of Serbia- Montenegro are available, on the scales of 1: , 1:50.000, 1: and 1: The metadata of these maps are not yet described in the data inventory. 30 Alterra-rapport 1195
31 Box 4 Relation with the study: evaluation of wetlands and floodplain areas in the Danube river basin A study on the evaluation of wetlands and floodplain areas in the Danube river basin has been carried out by the WWF in 1999, in the framework of the Daube pollution reduction programme (DPRP Danube Pollution Reduction Programme, 1999). In this study three areas were identified as proposed wetland restoration area, due to its ecological importance, nutrient removal capacity and their role in flood protection: the floodplain next to Mokro Polje, the Kupa floodplain and the Drina Mouth (Figure 3). This study was done on the entire Danube River Basin and the final results and maps are very coarse. There appear to be differences between the areas that are put on the map in that study, and the areas that the participants have mapped during the workshop. Some remarks after comparing the resulting pictures: In, wet grasslands are mapped only at the south side of the Sava, in Bosnia,. However, on the north side also appear to be many polders (Figure 5). This can be explained by the fact that the Bosnian areas were much deforested in the past, and the northern areas in Croatia still have a good (diverse) forest cover. The WWF map shows very wide floodplain areas on the north side of the Sava river, in Croatia. In the workshop, the large areas of wet grassland were mapped on the south side of the Sava, in the mouths of the tributaries, in Bosnia-Herzegovina (see Figure 5 and ). The presence of so many polders north of the Sava, in Croatia were not identified by participants of the workshop. The absence of polders on the southern, Bosnian side, is remarkable. A Bosnian participant remarked that some areas in the western part of Bosnia are embanked. Also was mentioned that on the Bosnian side of the Sava, many areas were not embanked and still frequently flooded, causing a lot of damage. In future projects on the evaluation and improvement of the ecological network along the Sava and its tributaries, habitat maps (wet grasslands, wetland etc.) will be made using GISdatasets. It is important to pay attention to these remarks, to improve the quality of the mapping of the study area. Alterra-rapport
32 Figure 3 significant impact areas and priority wetlands for restoration (DPRP, 1999). River / border Significant impact areas: 23 upper sava (slo, hr) 24 Sutla (slo, hr) 25 Kupa (Slo, hr) 26 Middle Sava Kupa (HR) 27 Middle Sava Una & Vrbas (HR, BiH) 28 Lower Sava Bosna (HR, BiH) 29 Tara Canyon (SM) 30 Lower Sava Drina (BiH, SM) Priority wetlands for restoration 6 Mouth of the Drina river (BiH, SM) 7 floodplain next to Mokro Polje (HR) 18 Kupa Floodplain (HR) 19 Mouth of the Vrbas River (BiH) 20 Obedska Bara (SM) 32 Alterra-rapport 1195
33 Figure 4 Major hydraulic structures and description of rivers in the Danube Basin (DPRP, 1999) Figure 5 Restoration potential of former floodplains in the Danube River Basin (DPRP, 1999). Alterra-rapport
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text:
I might be alone on this, but when it comes to heist movies, it seems like the genre has a few really great standouts and then a long list of copycats revamping the same similar plot with minor changes. Somebody wants revenge on their old crew after being wronged, or the aging crook wants to make one last big score before retiring to the island life. Netflix might not have Heat or fan favorites like the Oceans series currently available for streaming, but there are still some decent offerings that even when they veer into tired territory, have something to offer with fluid performances, action sequences or off-beat humor.
We'll kick off the list of highest rated heist flicks with one of Netflix's most popular offerings that was covered back in our list of crime thrillers.
Related: The 50 Best Movies On Netflix, Ranked
The Usual Suspects 4.3 stars out of 4,314,773 ratings.
Equal parts mystery and thriller, The Usual Suspects remains one of the most popular films of the 90s. Keeping up with the movie's flashbacks and plot twists isn't the easiest thing on first time viewing, but Bryan Singer's story of five crooks coming together to plan a heist only to wind up dead brilliantly comes together by the end. While the shipyard gunfight scene provides some well-received action, it's the Kayser Söze con that makes the movie a must-see and deserving of the number one spot. Rotten Tomatoes 96, IMDB 8.7
Reservoir Dogs 4 stars out of 7,885,702 ratings
Like The Usual Suspects, we covered Reservoir Dogs back in our roundup of Netflix's thrillers available for instant watch. Tarantino's directorial debut skips over the planning and crew assembly that goes along with most heist movies and shows us what happens when a heist goes horribly wrong and becomes a bloody mess. The nonlinear storytelling, along with its gratuitous/humorous violence make it one of the more enjoyable crime flicks currently available. Rotten Tomatoes 94, IMDB 8.4
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels 3.9 stars out of 3,261,992 ratings.
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels added a much-needed dose of humor to the heist movie and was a stylish debut for director Guy Ritchie. It drew comparisons to Quentin Tarantino's movies upon its release, but even with its similar style and violent tendencies, the story of gangsters and loan sharks colliding over drugs and a prize of antique shotguns after a card game gone wrong is two hours without a dull moment. Rotten Tomatoes 76, IMDB 8.2
The Italian Job 3.8 stars out of 12,762,298 ratings
All in all, the 2003 remake of the 1969 Michael Cain film is a fast-paced thrill ride with a cast that provides equal amounts of humor to balance out the Mini Cooper chases. Seth Green and Jason Statham fall into their appropriate roles of geeky computer wiz and smooth-talking tough guy, with Mark Whalberg, Charlize Theron, Ed Norton and Donald Sutherland all contributing strong performances as well. The story of a thief and his crew trying to pull a gold heist against their former mentor doesn't try to be anything more than a fun action movie and successfully delivers on that front. Rotten Tomatoes 80, IMDB 7.0
The Thomas Crown Affair 3.8 stars out of 1,922,038 ratings
Just like The Italian Job, Thomas Crown is another remake, this time updating Steve McQueen's 1968 film. Pierce Brosnan is believable as a millionaire playboy who enjoys the pastime of stealing artwork from right under the NYPD's nose, and Renee Russo plays the seductive female investigator closing in on him. The chemistry between Bronsan and Russo doesn't exactly burn up the screen, but the caper should have enough twists to keep you awake. Rotten Tomatoes 77, IMDB 6.8
Parker 3.8 stars out of 1,941,017 ratings
Hollywood knows that people want to see Jason Statham doing two things: kicking people upside the head and stealing stuff. It really doesn't matter if he's stealing by himself or as a team, those are just trivial details. This time around, Statham plays a thief who only steals from those who can afford it and only kills those who deserve it, because he's just a swell guy like that. After he's double-crossed, Statham aims for payback by pulling a heist on the crew that wronged him. Don't expect anything groundbreaking, but do expect Jason Statham delivering his brand of action to the fullest. Rotten Tomatoes 49, IMDB 6.2

subset: commoncrawl


text:
When my daughter was a baby, she was a hardcore bottle protester. I went through every single bottle brand I could get my hands on at the local Target, hoping that one would magically work on the kid. Luckily, with Baby #3, I think I've found a bottle that I am hoping will avoid some of that hassle right from the get-go.
This line of baby bottles from Comotomo might do the trick for any baby suffering from what experts call "nipple confusion." (anyone else hate that term and want it banned forever? Not just us? Okay). The inventive thing about these bottles is that they're made from medical-grade silicone–the whole bottle!–making everything from the nipple to the body totally soft and squeezy like…well, you.
Hopefully, the soft material will appeal to babies who are learning to transition from breast to bottle.
The soft body can be cleaned easily–no more trying to get every nook and cranny with those bristly bottle cleaners–and that alone is worth the purchase in my book. It's also nice to know that this BPA-free silicone material can be popped into the dishwasher, microwave and sterilizer.
The wide-mouth and dual vent system supposedly helps for babies who have colic (gah), preventing them from swallowing too much air as similar bottles also aim to do.
If Comotomo had been around when my daughter was a newborn, who knows if I would've had to go through the misery of bottle protests. Now that these bottles are here? I'm crossing fingers for smooth sailing ahead. –Jeana