Photo: © Tatyana Dimitrova

A training session for farmers on the topic “Application and Adaptation of Agricultural Practices for the Management of Arable Lands and Pastures to Promote the Conservation of Priority Species in Agricultural Lands” was held today in Dobrich. The event was opened by ornithologist Dimitar Plachijski from the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB), who presented to farmers and forestry experts from Varna, Shumen, General Toshevo, and Dobrich good agricultural practices aimed at preserving the feeding habitats of priority bird species, including the Lesser Spotted Eagle. Plachijski explained that practices such as crop rotation with alfalfa, maintaining the ecotone, creating feeding strips, and other good practices contribute to the conservation and increase of habitats for endangered bird species.

During the training, Irina Mateeva and Vyara Stefanova presented interventions from the Strategic Plan for Rural Development 2023-2027 that promote the conservation of habitats for priority species inhabiting agricultural lands. The BSPB experts also discussed payments for agricultural lands within Natura 2000 areas, as well as eco-schemes to reduce pesticide use, maintain permanent grasslands, and improve biodiversity and ecological infrastructure. They explained to the attendees the amount of funds allocated under the eco-schemes, who is eligible, and the requirements and necessary documentation.

At the end of the meeting, Dimitar Plachijski announced that individual meetings with farmers in Dobruja are upcoming, during which discussions on the conservation of valuable bird species and their habitats will continue.

Today’s training aimed to present agricultural practices, both those included in the Strategic Plan for Rural Development 2023-2027 and specific agricultural practices that are important for the conservation of endangered bird species and beneficial to farmers. The meeting was organized as part of the “LIFE for Eagle’s habitats” project.