Restoring Biosphere Reserves in Slovakia: A Collaborative Effort
Title: Hungarian-Slovak Biosphere Reserves Collaborate to Restore Natural Habitats
A new conservation program is set to launch in the Hungarian-Slovak biosphere reserves along the border, aimed at restoring natural habitats, enhancing endangered reptiles and amphibians’ habitats, implementing a wildcat conservation program, and reducing invasive tree species. The initiative, funded with HUF 400 million (EUR 1 million) from the EU, involves the Pilis, Lake Fertő, and Poľana Biosphere Reserves, along with professional cooperation partners from the Aggtelek and Slovak Karst Biosphere Reserves.
The unique project in Hungary includes designating a forest area in Pilisborosjenő for evergreen forest management, focusing on nature conservation rather than timber production. Over the course of two and a half years, the initiative will restore natural habitats in the marshland of Kistómalom in the Lake Fertő Biosphere Reserve and reconstruct wetlands in the Poľana Biosphere Reserve.
In the Pilis Biosphere Reserve, efforts will be made to improve habitats for endangered reptile and amphibian species, implement a wildcat conservation program, and target invasive tree species. Additionally, model environmental education projects will be launched, and educational trails and reception centers will be established in the Poľana and Pilis Biosphere Reserves.
Pilis Park Forest, the only park forest in Hungary, manages 65,000 hectares in the Gerecse, Pilis, and Visegrád Mountains, as well as the Buda, Gödöllő, and Csepel Hills. The area receives 32 million visitors annually, with almost 20 percent of the land dedicated to non-timber production purposes.
Overall, the collaborative efforts between Hungarian and Slovak biosphere reserves aim to protect and enhance the natural heritage of the region, promoting biodiversity and sustainable conservation practices.
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Source: Hungary Today, via MTI, Featured image credit: Wikimedia Commons
