Experts call for urgent measures to restore the protective forest belts in Dobrudzha

Climate change requires immediate mobilization of the efforts of all engaged institutions and experts to protect and restore the protective forest belts in Dobrudja, said the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food, Eng. Stoyan Toshev, at the opening of the National Conference in Dobrich. He emphasized the importance of these green belts in Northeastern Bulgaria, defining them as one of the most valuable natural resources of the country, with a key role in improving the conditions for agriculture, maintaining the microclimate, preserving soil fertility, biodiversity and the landscape.

Deputy Minister Toshev pointed out that the protective forest belts are not only a natural value, but also a challenge and a legacy that we must protect, as in addition to their environmental functions, they are also habitats for animals. He was adamant that opportunities for financing will be sought to ensure that they are restored where they have been destroyed.

Within the framework of the conference, the Regional Program for Protective Forest Belts on the territory of the Northeastern State Enterprise in Shumen was presented. The initiative is part of the "Lands and Forests of the Eagle" project and is the result of a successful partnership between the Executive Forest Agency, the Northeastern State Enterprise and the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds. The program envisages long-term measures based on scientific research and climate analysis, and can be supported through various financial instruments.

Deputy Minister Toshev expressed his personal commitment to the topic, emphasizing that the sustainable management of green infrastructure is an integral part of the future of agriculture. He stated that through the expertise, experience and commitment of all participants, this conference will contribute to real and long-term solutions.

The conference was also attended by other key institutions and experts, such as the Director of SIDP-Shumen, the Executive Director of the Executive Forest Agency, as well as scientists from the Forest Research Institute at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and the University of Forestry, who presented studies related to the topic of protective belts.