Project name: Improving the conservation status of natural habitat types and species of the Natura2000 network on the territory of Vrachanski Balkan Nature Park
Program: Operational Program "Environment 2014-2020, Priority axis: NATURA2000 and biodiversity
Overall goal:
Creating conditions for favorable condition of the conservation status of plant and animal species and species of natural habitats subject to protection on the territory of Vrachanski Balkan Nature Park, as part of the protected areas BG0002053 Vrachanski Balkan under the Birds Directives and BG0000166 Vrachanski Balkan ”Natura 2000 Habitats Directive.
Description:
The project is aimed at improving the conservation status of plant and animal species and species of natural habitats, subject to protection of the Vrachanski Balkan Nature Park, as part of protected areas under the Birds and Habitats Directives of the 2000 network. Four activities related to direct measures for the conservation of species and habitats are envisaged. The project will implement actions to build on previous projects to support the population in vulture species - Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus), Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) and Mountain Partridge (Alectoris graeca graeca). For vulture species, aviaries and feeding grounds will be repaired, studies will be carried out, a new site will be built, necessary equipment will be delivered and feeding will be provided.
For the mountain partridge, old infrastructure will be repaired and additional infrastructure will be built and poultry production will be ensured through semi-free breeding. Economic new methodology and technology for production and resettlement of birds of the species will be developed. A minimum of 100 birds per year will be relocated throughout the project and beyond.
Measures are envisaged for the restoration of the lake and the protection of two species of newts - Northern Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) and Southern Crested Newt (Triturus karelinii). The habitat will be cleaned and fenced, and watering troughs will be installed on the reservoirs.
Direct measures are envisaged for securing the routes passing through the priority places endangered by tourist pressure, placing information boards and signs, etc. Up to 15 old fountains will be restored and up to 150 stairs and 2 km will be secured. power lines in the most dangerous places for birds. Activities for organization, management and publicity of the project are planned.
As a result of the project, measures will be implemented to improve the conservation status of 4 species and 8 sites.
start: October 15, 2018 - end: March 15, 2023
Duration: 53 months
Value: BGN 860,132.80, of which BGN 730,602.88 is European and BGN 128,929.92 is national co-financing.