River in focus: Studenica River 

Country: Serbia 

Local partners: Polekol, Informal citizens’ group Spasimo Studenicu, Ušće 

Project goal: Protect the Studenica River basin by permanently halting the construction of the small Hydropower Plant Studenica S4 Gradina.

Background 

The Studenica River, the longest left tributary of the Ibar River, is the ecological and cultural heart of a globally protected area in Serbia. Originating high on Mount Golija, the river is known for its clear, fast, and cold flow over a rocky and gravelly riverbed. This upper course is the core of the Golija–Studenica UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which recognises the area's exceptional natural wealth, including numerous endemic and relic species. The river's uninterrupted flow is essential for maintaining vital migratory corridors and natural sediment dynamics, which directly support native species. Furthermore, the basin holds profound cultural and historical significance; it is the setting for the Studenica Monastery, an immovable cultural property of exceptional importance and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. This status defines the river basin as a special-purpose area that supports traditional livelihoods and forms a vital part of Serbia’s cultural identity.

Ongoing threats 

The Studenica River faces immediate and cumulative pressures that threaten its status as a core conservation area. The most grave and immediate threat is the Small Hydropower Plant Studenica S4 Gradina, which was unlawfully approved by the Agency for Spatial Planning and Urbanism despite the absence of a valid legal basis. An additional major threat is the planned ski centre at Odvraćenica, which includes constructing two large reservoirs directly at the river's source. This construction would severely damage the local microclimatic conditions, degrade the landscape, and directly harm the area's unique biodiversity. These large, planned projects, combined with the negative synergistic effects of six existing SHPPs and other ongoing pressures, such as stone mining, deforestation, waste disposal, and sewage discharge. For the survival of native cold-water species, preserving the continuous flow and connections to tributaries and the Ibar River is essential, as fragmentation would disrupt migrations and isolate protected populations.

How we are taking action 

The story of Studenica is a story of a persistent and consistent fight for a free-flowing river. Years of tireless advocacy by local communities and Polekol, scientists, artists, and other activists have seized every opportunity to resist and protest. Our work focuses on: 

• Advocacy and accountability: Participate in public consultations and call on the Serbian government to address systemic shortcomings in transposing EU directives into national legislation, particularly regarding EIA and AA procedures. Gather evidence and lodge complaints with the inspection authorities, especially regarding the illegal operation of SHPPs and illegal water extraction. 
• Scientific research: Document biodiversity and track changes in the river, providing the evidence needed for protection, advocacy and legal proceedings. 
• International outreach: Raise awareness and mobilise support through media and social campaigns, public events, international appeals, and the strategic collaboration of Balkan, international, and academic organisations.