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project info
Start date: 10 September 2025
End date: 10 September 2028
funding
Fund: European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)
Total budget: 3 129 150,76 €
EU contribution: 2 202 609,22 € (70,39%)
programme
Programming period: 2021-2027
European Commission Topic
European Commission Topic

Implementation of Measures 46, 47, 48, 49 and 74 (Part I) from the Priority Action Framework for NATURA 2000 in Southwestern Bulgaria.

The project proposal focuses on improving the conservation status of forest natural habitats within the territory of the Southwest State Enterprise (SWSE) through the implementation of silvicultural interventions and a series of pilot activities aimed at transforming coppice stands into seed stands, enhancing forest resilience to climate change, and improving species composition. The key project activities include the analysis and assessment of natural regeneration processes, measurement of silvicultural and forest inventory indicators, and experimentation with sustainable silvicultural practices targeting: • maintaining forest composition (Measure 46), • building structures resilient to significant natural disturbances (Measure 47), • converting coppice to seed forests (Measure 48), and • supporting the successful regeneration of black pine (Measure 49) under the Priority Actions Framework (PAF). Demonstration training will showcase the findings and results of these innovative forestry practices. Efforts to improve habitat conservation will prioritize non-extractive management techniques that enhance forest structure and species diversity. To promote natural regeneration, invasive species that impede the growth of native vegetation will be removed. Monitoring and evaluation will accompany all activities to optimize future management strategies and ensure long-term sustainability. The knowledge gained will be shared through the creation of methodological guidelines, equipping forestry professionals with the tools and expertise to manage forest habitats effectively and sustainably. Project interventions will cover a total of 7888.20 hectares and is expected to improve habitat conditions while also creating a richer food source for the brown bear (Ursus arctos) by planting fruit-bearing trees (Measure 74).

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