Minister of Environment and Water Yulian Popov announced the creation of four new protected areas in Bulgaria. This is an important step for the preservation of biodiversity and the unique natural resources of the country.

Three of the new areas have been declared as protected sites. These are: “Karniol'ska blatznitsa – s. Gintsi”, “Blatno Kokiche Deposit”, and “Kovachevska Koriya”. The fourth new protected area is “Provarternika” and is designated as a natural landmark.

“Karniol'ska blatznitsa – s. Gintsi” was created to protect peat moss, including its habitat, and other rare species such as the alpine newt and the round-leaved sundew.

“Blatno Kokiche Deposit” aims to preserve a natural deposit of spring snowflake and riparian floodplain forest.

“Kovachevska Koriya” is intended to preserve an old oak forest.

“Provarternika” protects unique rock formations known as a vertical domed rock with an opening and stone towers.

In addition to the creation of new areas, there are also changes in existing protected zones. The area of “Urumovo Tulip Deposit in m. Lalikoto” and “Yew Deposit in m. Elenska Glava” has been increased. The area of “Red Peony Deposit” has also been updated, and the regime of the territory has been changed to improve the conditions for the species.

Minister Popov has also ordered increased preventive measures for the fire season from April 1st to October 31st, 2026, in national parks, reserves, and maintained reserves.