The Public Institution Sea and Karst was established with the aim of preserving, protecting and promoting the natural values ​​of the Split-Dalmatia County. Since its establishment, the Institution has been developing and implementing nature protection measures and managing protected areas on land and at sea, which constitute a unique natural and cultural heritage.

Marine ecosystems are extremely sensitive and important for the preservation of biodiversity. Sea and Karst takes care of preserving the habitats of numerous rare and endemic species, monitors their condition and ensures that natural processes proceed smoothly. At the same time, it works to educate the public and raise awareness about the importance of a sustainable relationship with nature and the sea.

Under the management of the Public Institution are a number of protected sites, 4 special reserves, 13 natural monuments, 14 significant landscapes and 8 monuments of park architecture, as well as the Natura 2000 ecological network area in the Split-Dalmatia County.

The area of ​​the Natura 2000 ecological network in Split-Dalmatia County is 280,164.37 ha (approx. 20% of the area of ​​Split-Dalmatia County), of which 99,281.840 ha belongs to the marine part. There are 6 Important Bird Areas (IBA) and 142 Important Species and Habitat Areas (ISHA).

Among the marine protected areas, we can mention the special reserves: Pantan and Stupišće, valuable for their unique ecosystems and biodiversity.

Pantan is a coastal brackish wetland. The river, reedbed, lagoon and sandbanks are the main elements. The lagoon (and to some extent the nearby sea) has a specific salinity and temperature regime, which determines the composition of the ichthyofauna. The sandbanks protect and separate the lagoon from the sea, which is why they are extremely important, and can also be nesting grounds for some important bird species.

The Cape Stupišće Special Reserve is the first strictly protected marine area in the Split-Dalmatia County. It is located not far from Komiža, and due to its coralligenous cliffs rich in biodiversity, as well as the wreck of the steamer Vassilios T., it is well known to all lovers of the sea, underwater archaeology and diving. The protected area covers 109.76 ha, of which 94.43 ha (93.7 %) is sea. The underwater area in front of Cape Stupišće is exceptionally rich in plant and animal species.

The natural monuments, the sea caves Modra, Zelena and Medvidina, are recognizable symbols of the natural and geological uniqueness of the Adriatic, magical underground worlds in which light and sea create unforgettable scenes.

Through systematic monitoring, supervision and cooperation with local communities, the Institution works to harmonize nature protection and sustainable use of resources, thereby contributing to the preservation of the natural heritage of the Split-Dalmatia County and strengthening the identity of the Adriatic as a region of exceptional biodiversity.