Climate change requires an urgent mobilization of efforts by all relevant institutions and experts to protect and restore the shelterbelts in Dobrudzha. This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food, Eng. Stoyan Toshev, during the opening of the National Conference titled: “Challenges for the Sustainable Management of Shelterbelts under Climate Change Conditions”, held in Dobrich.
He emphasized the importance of the shelterbelt systems in Northeastern Bulgaria, describing them as one of the country’s most valuable green assets.
“They play a key role in improving agricultural conditions, maintaining the microclimate, preserving soil fertility, biodiversity, and the landscape,” Eng. Toshev highlighted.
The Deputy Minister pointed out that shelterbelts are not only a natural asset but also a legacy and a challenge that must be preserved. In his words, we must not forget that beyond their ecological functions, these areas serve as vital refuges for wildlife. He firmly stated that funding opportunities will be sought to ensure that destroyed belts are restored.
During the conference, the Regional Programme for Shelterbelt Forests in the territory of the Northeastern State Enterprise – Shumen was presented. The initiative is part of the “LIFE for Eagle’s Habitats” project and is the result of a successful partnership between the Executive Forest Agency (EFA), the Northeastern State Enterprise, and the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB).
Deputy Minister Toshev added that the program includes long-term measures based on scientific research and climate analysis.
“A ten-year implementation period is planned, during which significant effort and joint work among all stakeholders will be required. The program may be supported through the Strategic Plan for the Development of Agriculture and Rural Areas 2023–2027, the Environment Programme, as well as future LIFE Programme projects,” explained Eng. Toshev.
He expressed his personal commitment to the issue, emphasizing its importance for the future of agricultural areas.
“Sustainable management of green infrastructure is an integral part of the future of agriculture. We are confident that through the expertise, experience, and dedication of all participants, this conference will contribute to real and long-term solutions,” Deputy Minister Toshev concluded.
The conference was attended by Eng. Ivelin Todorov, Director of the Northeastern State Enterprise – Shumen, and Asen Markov, Executive Director of the Executive Forest Agency. Research related to the topic of shelterbelts was presented by the Director of the Forest Research Institute at BAS, Corresponding Member Prof. Dr. Georgi Georgiev and his team, as well as by Assoc. Prof. Georgi Kostov from the University of Forestry.