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CENTRAL BALKAN

BIOSPHERE RESERVE

NOMINATION FORM

UNESCO - Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme - Biosphere reserve nomination form - January 2013

PART I: SUMMARY

1. PROPOSED NAME OF THE BIOSPHERE RESERVE: [It is advisable to use a locally accepted geographic, descriptive or symbolic name which allows people to identify themselves with the site concerned (e.g. Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve, Bookmark Biosphere Reserve). Except in unusual circumstances, biosphere reserves should not be named after existing national parks or similar administrative areas.]

English (for international use): Biosphere reserve “Central Balkan” (BRCB)

Bulgarian (for domestic use): Биосферен парк „Централен Балкан“ (Biospheren park Centralen Balkan)

2. NAME OF THE COUNTRY:

Bulgaria

3. FULFILLMENT OF THE THREE FUNCTIONS OF BIOSPHERE RESERVES: [Article 3 of the Statutory Framework presents the three functions of conservation, development and logistic support. Explain in general terms how the area fulfills these functions.]

3.1 "Conservation - contribute to the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species and genetic variation". (Stress the importance of the site for conservation of biological and cultural diversity at the regional or global scales).

The region of Central Balkan (CB) Mountains is one of the most significant natural centers for the protection of biodiversity and wildlife in Europe. It is characterised by significant landscape diversity represented by four types, six sub-types and 11 groups of landscapes, including forest landscapes with appearance shaping, landscape forming component of forest vegetation, relief form, elevation and hydrothermal regime, grassland landscape with grassland communities; rock landscapes composed of various in terms of chemical and mineral composition rocks; aquatic landscape shaped by the surface water currents, single lakes and ponds; anthropogenic landscapes that occurred in result of development of agriculture, forestry, local settlements and infrastructure of tourism and recreation.

The important elements of the mountain landscape include: the unique skyline of the higher parts and peaks; the forests and forest-grassland forms; the unique rock and cliff formations; the access points to the peaks or trails through valleys and landscapes that are commemorated or immortalized in songs, paintings, and literature.

The lower parts of the region are with typical carst releaf especially at the North of the Main mountain ridge especially the river valley of Rossitsa river. The South is characterised by the lowland of Tundja river. The arable land combined with orchards prevail in the lowlands of North and South. Tipical for the Southern lowlands are the Rose plantations wich gave the name of The valley of Roses.


CB Mountain region is a key element of the European NATURA 2000 Network in Bulgaria. Various geological conditions and remarkable altitude differences of 201 to 2376 m, plus different climatic zones and traditional human use of natural resources have formed a huge diversity of natural and demi-natural habitats incl. deciduous and coniferous forests, pastures, shrub communities, meadows and other grass habitats, steep rocks and caves, rivers, wetlands and mountain lakes. Over 50 types of natural habitats are presented here, according to the EC Habitats Directive, 15 of them are described as Priority habitats.

Beech forests cover approximately 60000 ha of the BRCB (Biosphere reserve Central Balkan) and are one of the biggest compact, relatively unchanged by men massifs in Europe. The dominant species is the European beech (Fagus sylvatica). Average age of the beech communities in the core and buffer zones of the biosphere reserve is 135 years, including some vital forests aged 240. Coniferous woods have limited size and are vastly dominated by the Norway spruce (Picea abies). The region is the northernmost point in the world and the only one in Stara Planina where the Balkan endemic Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce) is growing naturally.

In the Northern lowlands broadleave forests prevail together with characteristic Tilia and Oriental hornbeam communities. At the South the rare petrifying springs and alkaline fens are found.

The grasslands are distributed mainly in the upper subalpine and alpine treeless areas in the park. Under the influence of intensive grazing in the past and the annual burning of bushes and trees on the ridge parts of the park have formed extensive grassland communities.

CB is one of the most important ecological corridors in the South Eastern Europe, supporting genetic exchange, distribution and connections between species from the Carpathians and other mountains in Eastern Europe, the southern parts of the Balkan Peninsula and Asia Minor.

CB is a source of endemic species of plants and animals. Within the core and the buffer zones of the BRCB can be found 45 species of algae, 238 species of moss, 337 species macromycetes, and almost 1700 species higher plants. 186 species from the park’s floristic wealth are of conservation value. 17 species are recognised by the Red List of IUCN. The endemic species of plants are 98. That includes 75 species are Balkan endemics and 23 species are endemic for Bulgaria. The list of the higher plants which are also relicts includes 101 species. Of these, 48 are Tertiary relicts and the rest 53 species are glacial relicts. Thus the park ranks among the most important shelters (refuges) of arctic-alpine elements in the high mountains in southern Europe.

2366 species of invertebrates have been found or registered. Among those species there are 261 stenotopic species, 168 endemic, 108 relict species and 19 species which are globally threatened. 307 vertebrate species have been recorded in the area from which 3 species of fish, 9 amphibians, 15 reptiles, more than 220 bird species (123 – nesting) and 60 mammal species. Among these, there are 21 globally endangered vertebrates and 44 European ones. The populations of wild cat, red deer and brown bear are of European significance. The populations of 8 species of mammals, among which the Snow vole, the Souslik, the Lesser mole-rat, the edible dormouse, Bechstein’s bat and the Balkan chamois and bird species like Semicollared flycatcher and White-backed woodpecker are of global conservation significance. Of all 30 species of European bats, 18 have been reported in CB. It is a key territory for the restoration of large Eiropean vultures – griffon vulture, cinereous vulture and bearded vulture, and of the saker falcon.


There are some local autochthonic breeds of animals among which we should mention the various sheep breed such as ‘Dabenska’, ‘Koprovshtenska’, ‘Tetevenska’, ‘Sredno-Staroplaninska’ and ‘Karakachanska’, as well as the Bulgarian grey cattle and the Karakachan horse.

Due to its high diversity and the fact that it hosts a considerable number of rare and endangered species and habitats, the region has already been integrated into various protected area programmes and designations as Central Balkan National park (CBNP), Nature reserves, other categories of protected areas and zones as defined by national law, the Birds and Habitats Directives of the European Union including the designation of large parts for the NATURA 2000 Network. The beech forests of the Park’s reserves will represent Bulgaria in the European serial UNESCO site of Primary Beech Forests of the Carpathians and the Old Beech Forests of Germany. CBNP is awarded a European Diploma for protected areas. The recognition of the Central Balkan as a contemporary biosphere reserve within UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves would provide an ideal framework for and will interlink all the ongoing conservation activities with the sustainable development of the region.

3.2 "Development - foster economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable". (Indicate current activities and the potential of the proposed biosphere reserve in fulfilling the objective of fostering sustainable economic and socio-cultural development, including by securing flows of ecosystem services from the biosphere reserve).

CBNP (the core and buffer zones of the biosphere reserve) is a point of attraction for tourist visits. The natural and cultural heritage, favourable location and good transport connections with the capital and other large cities are a solid basis for the sustainable development of the area.

CBBP presents the following opportunities for sustainable development:

Sustainable tourism :

Walking tourism is encouraged in the buffer zone of BRCB – over 580 km of tourist trails have been marked and are being maintained. Specialized trails have been developed for horse riding, cycling, bird-watching (plant- and animal-watching); special sites have been designated for extreme sports. Organized rest places, picnic places and viewpoints create opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Expositions at the Vezhen Visitor Center and the accommodation establishments; the information boards along eco-trails, interpretative routes and outdoor classrooms provide information about the significance of biodiversity in CBNP and help the visitor to feel and understand better and in a natural and exciting way its vital role, calmness and wisdom.

The area of CBBP has good location/ favourable geographic position, easy access from various parts of the country and abundance of natural, cultural and historical assets. There are huge opportunities for the development of regional products including eco-tourism, cultural tourism, rural tourism, spa, etc. In recent years, there is a growing demand for horse riding, mountain biking, watching of wild plants and animals, photo-shooting. In that relation, it is necessary to build the appropriate visitor infrastructure that supports the development of the various forms of tourism.

Traditional craftsMany of the settlements in the area have been renowned crafts centers in the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, and even today. Traditions have been preserved and continue to be developed by


the successors of the old masters. The region of Troyan is famous for its pottery while Kalofer is known for the crafty lace. The towns and villages of the municipalities of Karlovo, Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya and Anton still offer the chance to observe the work of masters of traditional crafts such as wood-carving, icon-painting, leather-processing, weaving, making of weapons (both knives and rifles), pottery, copper-smithing. The schools of applied arts in Troyan and Kazanlak are a valuable resource for the keeping of traditions in that sphere.

Traditional products and agricultural practices . The villages of the region have preserved traditional home productions of cheese, milk, rakia (Bulgarian brandy), wine, jams and other conserved food. Traditional agricultural practices in a large part of the region have not been modernized yet and the use of chemical substances or fertilizers is still quite limited. Many private farms are practicing organic and environmentally-friendly agriculture as it was once done. Even today, people in Kalofer, Troyan and other settlements are using the services of water-mills, fulling-mills and other old installations powered by water. Furthermore, the Karlovo and Kazanlak Valleys are traditionally the home of rose- and lavender-growing. Several rose-processing houses are working in the southern part of the region and they have a big potential as tourist attractions. In addition the Rose Festival in Kazanlak attracts many toursists from all around the world each year.

Historical and archaeological sites , architectural landmarks. The mountainous character of the region has contributed to the preservation of many churches and monasteries which keep valuable murals and icons. The monasteries founded hundreds of years ago are part of the national cultural heritage and national memory for they keep the history and events from the region’s past. The Troyan Monastery and the nearby Zelenikovski Monastery (residence of the Bulgarian patriarch); the Batoshevski Monastery near the town of Sevlievo (from the northern side of the mountain); the Maid and Male Monasteries near Kalofer and others characterize the region as the Balkan Holy Mountain and attract believers and lovers of Orthodox Christian culture and history. What we should add to the above list of historical and archaeological sites are the available samples of intangible historical heritage.

For hundreds of years, a considerable number of domestic animals used the ridge of Central Stara Planina for grazing. High-mountain pastures were used in summer months by numerous herds of mostly sheep. Later on, interest towards grazing decreased. After Bulgaria’s accession to the EU, there has been a revival of this interest based on the opportunities to access funds from the Rural Development Programme.

Traditionally, the territory of CBNP has also been used for the gathering of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms. People and communities in the area are using the benefits of living close to a protected area and use those natural products as a source of income. This population is a strategically important keeper of the park’s resources.

All municipalities involved have their own Municipal Development Plans which define their development goals in accordance with local conditions and resources.

Development of biosphere reserve strategy (management plan) will be used as a tool for developing a model of comprehensive sustainable development according the local conditions for the region as a whole.


3.3 "Logistic support - support for demonstration projects, environmental education and training, research and monitoring related to local, regional, national and global issues of conservation and sustainable development". (Please indicate current or planned activities).

The significance of the region for protecting the elements of biodiversity and abiotic components is tremendous. The protected area is a solid base for research and monitoring of the biotic and abiotic components; for educational programmes, trainings and others. BRCB provides opportunities for studying of conservationally important species; development of many educational, scientific and research projects such as monitoring of priority species and habitats, organization of students’ and amateurs’ expeditions for educational purposes, etc.

Every year, CBNP Ditectorate (CBNPD) is performing monitoring of the components of the environment as a part of its Annual Monitoring Plan. Among the subjects of monitoring are plant and animal species and abiotic components – waters and soils. In addition, the Directorate is also keeping monitoring of the tourist flows and its impact on the protected territory.

Ever since its establishment, the CBNPD is implementing a lot of projects/activities related to protection/restoration of plant/animal species, natural habitats and others. For example the financial instrument Life + of the EU ensured funding for three projects aimed at restoration of populations of vultures, of Imperial Eagle and Saker Falcon and improvement of conditions for large carnivores.

The Operational program Environment 2007 – 2013 ensured funding for projects aimed at improving the tourist information in the whole CBNP, restoration of damaged habitats and rehabilitation of tourist routes, building of visitors centers, restoration of habitats and species, building infrastructure for needs of park administration etc. Such example is the project “Central Balkan – park for everyone”. See point 4.3 for more details.

The Bulgarian Swiss Cooperation Programme – Civil Society Participation Fund ensured funding for promotion of sustainable development through the project “Linking conservation with sustainable rural areas” called in short “For the Balkan and people”. The project is implemented on the territory of BRCB and adjacent territories. See point 4.3 for more details.

Among the priorities in CBNP management is the support for environmental education. Part of the applied forms of such education is based on visits to the National Park. For the visitors, CBNP D is raising awareness through: duo-lingual information boards placed on key spots such as the entrances of the NP and reserves, on trails, next to natural phenomena; information about CBNP at the accommodation establishments – photo and documentary exhibitions, sensor kiosks, eco-trails, interpretative routes, children’s camp for survival in the wild and outdoor classrooms; the Walk with Rangers Programme offering one-day trips for groups of visitors along certain trails in the NP accompanied by one the park’s rangers.

A significant opportunity for support of environmental education, as well as for establishment of partnerships with various educational institutions from all over the country is presented by CBNP’s educational programme called “The Park as a Classroom”. Within the programme and in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the CBNPD has developed educational packages for environmental education (series of full-colour posters and guidebooks for teachers) – “Walk in the Wild Mountain”, “Animals in CBNP”, “Plants in CBNP”, “Oasis of Wildlife”. The programme is


aimed at all age groups from pre-school to 10th grade and includes guidebooks for class work and outdoor activities, as well as participation of experts from the Park in national and regional teachers’ meetings, discussions with the Regional Inspectorate of the Ministry of Education and municipal departments of education to present the products, teach about how to use them, hold methodical sessions with the teachers and develop additional guidebooks with the teachers and the kindergartens.

Furtheremore, the existence of a large number of educational institutions in the municipalities from the region is a substantial basis for education and training related to environment protection and the sustainable development of the region.

The cultural, historical and religious sites located within the buffer and transition zones of the reserve give a chance to combine nature-protection activities with educational programs, cultural and historical projects, traditional celebrations and customs, for both local people and the visitors.

CBNPD as an institution responsible for the management of the core and buffer zones of CBBP will continue to work for its promotion (publication and dissemination of posters, leaflets, stickers, etc.) and to organize study trips which will give young people the opportunity to get involved in various ecological activities.

The new Management Plan of CBNP was approved in 2016 in line with national legislation and so the goals of the protected area will continue to be pursued; the programmes for protection of species and habitats will continue to expand, together with the activities for monitoring, scientific research, education and training.

The process of consultations on the revision of biosphere reserves network in Bulgaria and especially of Central Balkan Biosphere Reserve according the current MAB criteria was supported by two projects:

1) “Preparation of the Process of revision of the Network of Biosphere Reserves in Bulgaria” developed and implemented by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF) and funded by the State Enterprise for Management of Environmental Protection Activities (SEMEPA) of MOEW in 2015; and

2) “Linking conservation with sustainable rural areas” through the Association of Parks in Bulgaria and BBF and funded by the Bulgarian Swiss Cooperation Programme – Civil Society Participation Fund.

4. CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION AS A BIOSPHERE RESERVE: [Article 4 of the Statutory Framework presents 7 general criteria for an area to be qualified for designation as a biosphere reserve which are given in order below.]

4.1 "Encompass a mosaic of ecological systems representative of major biogeographic region(s), including a gradation of human interventions". (The term "major biogeographic region" is not strictly defined but it would be useful to refer to the Udvardy classification system (http://www.unep-wcmc.org/udvardys-biogeographical-provinces-1975_745.html)).

The territory of Bulgaria is a part of the European and Western-Siberian Biogeographic Area of the Paleoarctic Kingdom and is located in the biome of the deciduous and mixed forests of the moderate latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere. The territory of the proposed biosphere reserve is located in the bio-geographical province of Balkan Highlands as per Udvardi.


Several bio-geographical areas are in correlation here. Various geological conditions, climatic zones and human impact have formed a great diversity of natural and semi-natural habitats incl. deciduous and coniferous forests, pastures, shrub communities, meadows and other grass habitats, steep rocks and caves, rivers, wetlands and mountain lakes.

Deciduous forestsBeech forests cover approximately 60000 ha of the BRCB and are one of the biggest compact, relatively unchanged by men massifs in Europe. Average age of the beech communities in the core and buffer zones of the biosphere reserve is 135 years, including some vital forests aged 240.

Coniferous forestsConiferous woods have limited size and are vastly dominated by the Norway spruce (Picea abies). Average age is 115 years but some reach 200 years and more. The region is the northernmost point in the world and the only one in Stara Planina where the Balkan endemic Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce) is growing naturally.

The CBNP is a natural complex of six typical plant belts (all presented in Bulgaria) – examples of deciduous, mixed deciduous, mixed deciduous and coniferous, fragmented coniferous, sub-Alpine and fragmented Alpine vegetation. CB includes the one of its kind in Bulgaria rock complex with centuries-old forests, walls and abysses, as well as the strongest rock belt (Djendemite).

Shrubland ecosystemThese shrub communities are dominated by hazel (Corylus avellana), briar (Rosa canina), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and others. The alternating of shrublands and grasslands observed along the treeline, between 1500 and 1850 m a. s. l. to the mountain ridge. Major dominant species of these communities are conifers and ericoid shrubs, such as Siberian juniper (Juniperus sibirica), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), Brutskenthaliya spiculifolia. More limited distributed are raspberry (Rubus idaeus), dwarf pine (Pinus mugo), bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi). Rare and highly vulnerable shrub communities are those, dominated by Alpine Rose (Rhododendron myrtifolium). Of particular interest is the dwarf pine locality which is the only natural habitat of the species for the Stara planina Mountains - Balkan Range.

Grassland ecosystemsThe grasslands are distributed mainly in the upper subalpine and alpine treeless areas in the park. Under the influence of intensive grazing in the past and the annual burning of bushes and trees on the ridge parts of the park have formed extensive and species-poor grassland communities dominated by mat grass (Nardus stricta), redtop (Agrostis capillaris), Deschampsiya flekosa and many other herbaceous species.

Rocky ecosystemThere are rocky ecosystems on the whole territory of park. The main rocks and rock formations for the main mountain ridge are silicate. The limestone is distributed mostly in the lower parts of the region. On the rocks there are many rare plants, including endemic and relict species, such Rhodope haberlea (Haberlea rhodopensis), edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum), Neychev’s fescue (Festuca balcanica ssp. Neicevii), Red Houseleek (Sempervivum erythreum), Centaurea kernerana, golden root (Rhodiola rosea) and many others. The numerous caves in the park are associated with rocky ecosystems.


Freshwater ecosystemsFreshwater ecosystems are represented mainly by mountain rivers and streams and very rarely by lakes, bogs and marshes that occupy small areas. Rivers and streams are mostly fast-flowing, with gravel and rocky bottom and are poor in vegetation. They are inhabited mainly of benthic fauna. Near mountain streams and rivers are formed diluted woody-shrub communities dominated by gray alder (Alnus incana), goat willow (Salix caprea), Lavendel-Weide (Salix elaeagnos). These communities have high participation of hygrophilic species from the group of tall grass, as Angelica pancicii, Balkan thistle (Cirsium appendiculatum), white butterbur (Petasites albus), lady's mantle (Alchemilla spp.), Yellow marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) and others.

The territory of BRCB hoists a great variety of natural habitats mostly connected to the mid- and high-mountainous territories of the country. Most of them (77%) have European and/or national conservation significance. At least 86 habitat units have been registered by the classification of EUNIS. 4 of those are various freshwater habitats; 3 are peatlands and marshlands; 23 are are pastures and meadows; 13 – shrub communities and communities of low bushes; 29 – forests; 10 – rocks and caves and 4 – anthropogenic habitats.

4.2 "Be of significance for biological diversity conservation".(This should refer not only to the numbers of endemic or rare species, but may also refer to species on the IUCN Red List or CITES appendices, at the local, regional or global levels, and also to species of global importance, rare habitat types or habitats with unique land use practices (for example traditional grazing or artisanal fishing) favouring the conservation of biological diversity).

Over 50 types of natural habitats are present in Central Balkan Biosphere Reserve, according to the EC Habitats Directive, 15 of them are described as Priority habitats.The following types of natural habitats from the region are of priority for protection on the European level: 1340* Inland salt meadows, 1530*Pannonic salt speppes and salt marshes, 4070* Bushes with Pinus mugo and Rhododendron hirsutum (Mugo-Rhododendretum hirsuti), 6110* Rupicolous calcareous or basophilic grasslands of the Alysso-Sedion albi, 6210* Semi-natural dry grasslands scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia ) (*Important orchid sites), 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and sub-mountain areas, in Continental Europe), 6240* Sub-continental steppic grasslands, 7210* Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae, 7220* Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion).9180* Tilio-Acerion forests on slopes, screes and ravines, 91AA* Eastern white oak forests, 91G0*Pannonic woods with Quercus petraea and Carpinus betulus, 91H0* Pannonian woods with Quercus pubescens, 9530* (Sub-)Mediterranean pine forest with endemic black pines, and 91E0* Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae).In addition a locality of the rare habitat type of 7230 Alcaline fens is found hereCBNP is characterized by rich plant diversity. Whithin the core and the buffer zones can be found 208 species of algae 235 species of moss, 337 species macromycetes, and almost 1700 species higher plants (41% of the BG higher flora). 186 species from the park’s floristic wealth are of conservation value. 78 of those species are protected by the Biological Diversity Act and are included in its annexes, 58 species are listed into the Red Data Book of Bulgaria, 120 species are listed in the Red List of vascular plants in Bulgaria and 17 species are recognised by the Red List of IUCN. The endemic species of plants are 98. That includes 75 species which are Balkan endemics and 23 species which are endemic for Bulgaria. The list of the higher plants which are also relicts includes 101 species. Of these, 48 are Tertiary relicts and the rest 53 species are glacial relicts. Thus the park ranks among the most important shelters (refuges) of arctic-alpine elements in the high


mountains in southern Europe. The beech forest or its understory is an appropriate place for some of the species with high conservation significance as Prunus laurocerasus, Taxus baccata, Acer heldreichii, Angelica pancicii, Galanthus elwesii, Haberlea rhodopensis and others.

The diversity of invertebrates was evaluated through 8 model groups. According to them 2366 species have been found or registered, which constitutes about 45% of the expected. Among those species there are 261 stenotopic species, 168 endemic, 108 relict species and 19 species which are globally threatened. Among invertebrates, insects have a fairly high percentage of endemism – 113 species presenting 7% of their total number. 62 species among them are Balkan endemics, 31 species – Bulgarian endemics and 20 species – local endemics.

307 vertebrate species have been recorded in the area from which 3 fish, 9 amphibians, 15 reptiles, more than 220 bird species (123 – nesting) and 60 mammal species. Among these, there are 21 globally endangered vertebrates and 44 European ones. Wildcat, red deer and brown bear are of conservation significance for Europe. The populations of 8 species of mammals, among which the Snow vole, the Souslik, the Lesser mole-rat, the edible dormouse, and the Balkan chamois are of global conservation significance.

The beech forests in the park are of global conservation significance as a habitat of vertebrate fauna. These forests are the breeding grounds for 18 species which are globally endangered or globally significant (13 mammal, 4 bird and 1 amphibian species)

Among mammals, the priority species are the grey wolf (Canis lupus) *, the brown bear (Ursus arctos) *.

Of special interest among the birds are: corn crake (Crex crex), semi-collared flycatcher (Ficedula semitorquata), eastern imperial eagle (Aquila heliacal), rock partridge (Alectoris graeca graeca), white-backed woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos lilfordi), Ural owl (Strix uralensis), Eurasian pygmy owl (Glaucidium passerinum), boreal owl (Aegolius funereus), saker falcon (Falco cherrug).

Amphibians and reptiles: yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata), spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca), Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni), southern crested newt (Triturus karelinii).

Fish: Mediterranean barbel (Barbus meridionalis), bullhead (Cottus gobio).

Invertebrates: stone crayfish (Austropotamobius torrentium) *, Jersey tiger (Callimorpha quadripunctaria) *, hermit beetle (Osmoderma eremita) *, Rosalia longicorn (Rosalia alpine) *

Plants: Carpathian tozzia (Tozzia carpathica), (Dicranum viride), Slender green feather-moss (Drepanocladus vernicosus)

There are some local autochthonic breeds of animals grazing on the territory of the Park, among which we should mention the various sheep breed such as ‘Dabenska’, ‘Koprovshtenska’, ‘Tetevenska’, ‘Sredno-Staroplaninska’ and ‘Karakachanska’, as well as the Bulgarian grey cattle and the Karakachan horse. In that sense, the territory of the buffer zone of CBBP is important for the preservation of the above breeds.

4.3 "Provide an opportunity to explore and demonstrate approaches to sustainable development on a regional scale”. (Describe in general terms the potential of the area to serve as a site of excellence for promoting the sustainable development of its region (or "eco-region")).


The BRCBregion is already subject to a large number of ongoing initiatives, projects and cooperation policies between communities, companies and organizations aimed at sustainable development and its active promotion. With time, the CBNPD has established good partnership with the surrounding municipalities (the transition zone) and has been involved in many different projects related to the promotion of tourist routes, information campaigns about the biodiversity in the park, exhibitions and educational forums. Detailed information about various projects implemented by the CBNPD is available in section 16.1.2. Below, two examples of project which are being currently implemented are presented. The first one is a project called “Central Balkan – park for everyone” which is aiming at:

maintaining the diversity of ecosystems and wildlife protection; protection and maintenance of biological diversity in ecosystems; providing opportunities for development of scientific, educational and recreational activities

and creating prerequisites for development of tourism and environmentally friendly means of

livingThanks to the project, many information signs were created, as well as tourist points and visitor’s centres in the transition zone were opened. Another example which is aiming at the promotion of sustainable development of the region, would be the “Linking conservation with sustainable rural areas” called in short “For the Balkan and people”. The project is implemented on the territory of BRCB and adjacent territories in partnership with six Bulgarian NGOs, 4 Swiss organizations and the Ministry of food and agriculture and is focusing on nine NATURA 2000 zones in Bulgaria (one of them – Central Balkan) . Thanks to the example of this project, CBNP has already become a place which demonstrates in practice different approaches to sustainable development and is also an instrument for regional development. The Project is related to the development of schemes for payments for ecosystem services, demonstrative dairy farm, funds for small scale biodiversity related projects educational camps for children, farmer’s market, organization of festivals, biodiversity carnival and awards, are only few of the already implemented initiatives on the territory of the park. Gradually, population in the area of the reserve (settlements within the transition zone) has started to develop sustainable activities such as ecological tourism, hotel management, organic agriculture and stock-breeding, and others. This balance between nature protection, economic progress and social development of the population is in itself a sustainable way of development for the region.

4.4 "Have an appropriate size to serve the three functions of biosphere reserves"(This refers more particularly to (a) the surface area required to meet the long term conservation objectives of the core area(s) and the buffer zone(s) and (b) the availability of areas suitable for working with local communities in testing and demonstrating sustainable uses of natural resources).

Size of zones in the BP Size by GIS map (Size by designation order) ha

% of total area

Core zone 19831.32 (20 019.6) 5,37Buffer zone 51904.76 (52001,47) 14,07


Transition zone 297267.84 80,56TOTAL 369003.92 100

4.5 Through appropriate zonation:"(a) a legally constituted core area or areas devoted to long term protection, according to the conservation objectives of the biosphere reserve, and of sufficient size to meet these objectives".(Describe the core area(s) briefly, indicating their legal status, their size, the main conservation objectives).

The core zone of the biosphere reserve covers all 9 reserves found within the boundaries of the CBNP . Those existing 9 reserves are strictly protected areas under Category 1 as per the Protected Areas Act that fit IUCN category I. According to Art. 16 (1), what is designated as a reserve are samples of natural ecosystems including typical and/or remarkable wild plant and animal species and their habitats. Total area of the zone is 20 019.6 (19831.32) ha which represents 5,37 % of the total surface area of the Biosphere Reserve.

The core zone is designated to preserve the natural state of environment; scientific and educational activities and/or ecological monitoring; protection of genetic resources; conservation of natural habitats and of populations of protected rare, endemic and relic species; development of a network of ecosystems and endangered habitats that are representative for Bulgaria and Europe.

Core zone/s of Central Balkan Biosphere Reserve(Reserves on the territory of Central Balkan National Park)

Core zone Designation OrderLatest Order for Changes Area (ha)

Boatin Council of Ministers’ Decree (PMS) 7285/12.06.1948Order No. 67/25.01.1991

1 597.2

Tsarichina PMS 4942/18.07.1949Order No. 500/29.06.1992

3 418.7

Kozya Stena Order No. 1048/22.12.1987Order No. 67/25.01.1991

904.3

Steneto Order No. 214/5.04.1979Order No. 44/15.01.1991

3 578.8

Stara Reka Order No. 200/19.03.1981Order No. 67/25.01.1991

1 974.7

Dzhendema Order No. 606/28.03.1953Order No. 67/25.01.1991

4 220.2

Severen Dzhendem Order No. 995/30.09.1983Order No. 9/09.01.1985

1 610.0

Peeshti Skali Order No. 502/11.07.1979 1 465.7

Sokolna Order No. 501/11.07.1979Order No. 9/09.01.1985

1 250.0

Total 20 019.6

"(b) a buffer zone or zones clearly identified and surrounding or contiguous to the core area or areas, where only activities compatible with the conservation objectives can take place".(Describe briefly the buffer zones(s), their legal status, their size, and the activities which are ongoing and planned there).

The buffer zone covers the territory of CBNP without the reserves inside (the core zone). The management of the park is a direct application of the Protected Areas Act. According to Art.5 p.2 of


the PAA, the National Park is a protected area of Category 2 (IUCN category II) , an exclusive state property (Art.8 (1) and (2) of PAA). As per Art.18 (1), “What is designated as a national park are territories which do not include settlements or similar but cover natural ecosystems with big diversity of plant and animal species and habitats, with typical and remarkable landscapes and abiotic sites.” Total area of the zone is 52001,47 (51904.76) ha which represents 14,07 % of the total surface area of the Biosphere Reserve.

"(c) an outer transition area where sustainable resource management practices are promoted and developed".(The Seville Strategy gave increased emphasis to the transition area since this is the area where the key issues on environment and development of a given region are to be addressed. Describe briefly the transition area(s), the types of questions to be addressed there in the near and the longer terms. The Madrid Action Plan states that the outer boundary should be defined through stakeholder consultation).

The transition zone covers the territories of the municipalities of Karlovo, Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya and Anton, without the territories included in CBNP, which totals 297267.84 ha or 80,56 % of the total surface area of the proposed Biosphere Reserve.

The decision for incorporating these municipalities in the biosphere reserve was taken by their municipal councils after a number of information meetings and consultations with the stakeholders, with the participation of CBNP Directorate, Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation and, in some cases, representatives of the Ministry of Environment and Waters. All decisions are attached to the nomination form (in Bulgarian).

(d) Please provide some additional information about the interaction between the three areas.

In general, the proposed biosphere reserve has a very big botential to become a well-functioning post-Seville biosphere reserve which could foster the economic development in the transitional zone, boost cultural activities, focus more on the natural beauty and improve the understanding about the importance of ecosystem services in the region. The preservation of the core and the buffer zones is key for the region and it is very well understood by the local authorities and people. On the other hand, the biosphere reserve could be the tool which will help local people understand that sustainable development is possible and will boost entrepreneurship and local people to work together for the good of the core and the buffer zone, but also for their own good.

4.6 "Organizational arrangements should be provided for the involvement and participation of a suitable range of inter alia public authorities, local communities and private interests in the design and the carrying out of the functions of a biosphere reserve".

In the process of planning and development of the Biosphere Reserve nomination, various stakeholders were involved, starting with the representatives of local authorities – mayors and municipal councilors, representatives of local educational and cultural institutions, media, NGOs, CBNPD and others. It is envisaged that, after the nomination of the Biosphere Reserve, the joint work and participatory approach towards the implementation of the three functions of the territory will continue.

4.6.1 Describe arrangements in place or foreseen.


(Describe involvement of public and/or private stakeholders in support of the activities of the biosphere reserve in core, buffer and transition areas (such as agreements, protocols, letters of intent, protected area(s) plans)).

In the CBNP Management Plan 2016-2025, with a high priority it is envisaged that the Park should be incorporated into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of MAB/UNESCO including preparation of documentation with all necessary elements for a contemporary biosphere reserve in accordance with the Seville Strategy. The updated Management Plan was approved by the Council of Ministers in 2016 after a wide consultation in the period November 2013 – February 2016, e.g. meetings and workshops with participation of local, regional and national stake holders, information campaign, information meetings in settlements in the vicinity of the National park, official public hearing held on 11.03.2014 attended by the Bulgarian Minister and Deputy Minister of Environment and Waters, members of Parliament, district governors, mayors and over 100 other representatives of the stakeholders from the region and the country.

In the period of 2014 -2016 the MOEW initiated a process of revision of the existing biosphere reserves in Bulgaria in compliance with modern requirements. A consultation and planning process was organised and implemented by the CBNPD, BBF with active MOEW support and participation including official letters (3 rounds) to the municipalities, 2 rounds of information meetings and consultations with individual municiplaities and other stake holders (more than 20 meetings and consultations), a general meeting of all key stake holders and a workshop for nomination preparation..

As a result of a consultation process five municiaplities took a decision to join the Biosphere Reserve: Karlovo (Decision N /25.06.2015), Troyan (Decision N:9/28.04.2016), Sevlievo (Decision N:235/26.07.2016), Pavel Banya (Decision N:298/28.07.2016) and Anton (Decision N:14/25.08.2016). Copies of the decisions in Bulgarian are attached to the nomination file.

It was agreed that the nomination file will serve as a preliminary agreement for joint action and achievement of the objectives of the Biosphere Reserve, the responsible institutions at the local/regional/national level intent to establish a Partnership Council and a Consultative Council which will legitimize the process and the functioning of the BRCB. The Partnership Council will include the institutions who have signed the present nomination form, namely: CBNPD, Executive Forestry Agency and the municipalities. The Consultative Council will involve various not only public but private stakeholders and NGOs. Furthermore a detailed agreement will be signed by the partners if this Nomination is apporoved by the Council of MAB.

4.6.2 Have any cultural and social impact assessments been conducted, or similar tools and guidelines been used? (e.g. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)’s Akwé: Kon guidelines; Free, Prior, and Informed Consent guidelines, Biocultural Community Protocols, etc.). (UNESCO’s Programme on Man and the Biosphere (MAB) encourages biosphere reserves to consider and respect indigenous and customary rights through programmes or tools, in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii/documents/DRIPS_en.pdf when relevant and appropriate)).

The rich cultural and historical heritage in the buffer and transition zones of the proposed biosphere reserve, combined with the unique natural values - conservationally important habitats and species in the core zone – are the proof that the region has great potential. This provides opportunities for combining nature protection activities with educational programs, cultural and historical projects, traditional customs and celebrations aimed at local population and the visitors. The rich cultural and


http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii/documents/DRIPS_en.pdf

historical heritage, local traditions and products fit completely the concept of biosphere reserves set in the Seville Strategy from 1995. It is envisaged that, after the nomination of the territory for a biosphere reserve, these opportunities will be developed further and utilized by local people for the improvement of the social and economic status of the region.

4.7 Mechanisms for implementation:

Does the proposed biosphere reserve have: "(a) mechanisms to manage human use and activities in the buffer zone or zones"? If yes, describe. If not, describe what is planned.

In 2016, they approved the final version of the Management Plan of Central Balkan National Park which coincides with the buffer zone of the BP. The Management Plan contains the goals and measures which are undertaken to control the human use and activities in the buffer zone. The MP is a regulation based on the Protected Areas Act. Apart from a general description of the protected territory with its components and management goals, the Plan includes also:

Norms, regimes, conditions and recommendations for activities in the forests, lands and water bodies; development of infrastructure and construction; organization of management and others leading to the achievement of the formulated goals, and

Short- and long-term action programmes related to scientific and research work, monitoring of the components of the environment, maintenance of endangered species, communities and habitats, environmental education and training, and others.

The main instruments used are zoning, introduction of temporary ban on specific activities, development of yealy plans and introdiction of specific norms and regulations of use of the natural resources according the regime of the National park especially for activities like grazing, hay gathering, obtain of fire wood within the restoration and maintenance activities in the forests, collection of medicinal plants and fruits, tourist activities. This means that in buffer zone of the proposed biosphere reserve are possible abovementioned uses under valid regulations in the national park. According to PAA and the Management plan of the national park the agriculture and hunting in the park is prohibited. Angling is also prohibited by the Management plan. Other mechanism applied is providing subsidies for grasing activies under the measure pasturalism in order to support and regulate the grazing in high mountain pastures.

The use of water resources is done in accordance with the provisions of the Waters Act. The overall procedure for getting permissions for water use and the control over issued permits is in the hands of Basin Directorates – regional structures of MOEW.

"(b) a management policy or plan for the area as a biosphere reserve"? If yes, describe. If not, state how such a plan or policy will be developed, and the timeframe. (If the proposed area coincides with one or more existing protected natural area(s), describe how the management plan of the proposed biosphere reserve will be complementary to the management plan of the protected area(s)).

No separate unified plan for the management of the BRCB has been elaborated but the management of activities within it is based on the MP of CBNP and the Municipal development plans of the participating municipalities. In case this nomination is approved, a Development Strategy will be prepared for the BP which will answer that need.


"(c) a designated authority or mechanism to implement this policy or plan"?

On the basis of agreement for joint action and achievement of the objectives of the BRCB, the responsible institutions at the local/regional level will establish a Partnership Council and a Consultative Council to the CBNPD which will make the process and the functioning of the BRCB legit. The Partnership Council will include the institutions who have signed the present nomination form and the agreement, namely: CBNPD, Executive Forestry Agency and the municipalities which have joined the agreement.

The special list of the Consultative Council at CBNPD includes representatives of the partners under the agreement plus representatives of all major stakeholders who have any responsibilities about common actions for the functioning of the biosphere reserve, including but not limited to local authorities (the joining municipalities), CBNPD, other regional structures of the MOEW, regional structures of the Ministry of Agriculture and Foods and the Executive Forestry Agency, district governors, business (tourist business and producers of local goods and products), agricultural producers, tourist associations, NGOs (environmental, women’s, youth and others), academic, educational and cultural institutions (universities, schools and Chitalishta/ Community Centers), scientific and research institutes (BAS), etc.

“(d) programmes for research, monitoring, education and training"?If yes, describe. If not, describe what is planned.

CBNP provides opportunities for research on conservationally important species, assessments of ecosystem services provided by forests, development of a number of educational, scientific and research programmes such as monitoring of priority species and natural habitats, organization of pupils’, students’ and amateurs’ expeditions, etc.

Every year, the Directorate of CBNP is performing monitoring of the components of the environment as a part of its Annual Monitoring Plan. Among the subjects of monitoring are plant and animal species and abiotic components – waters and soils. In addition, the Directorate is also keeping monitoring of the tourist flows and its impact on the protected territory.

For the visitors, CBNPD is raising awareness through: duo-lingual information boards placed on key spots such as the entrances of the NP and reserves, on trails, next to natural phenomena; information about CBNP at the accommodation establishments – photo and documentary exhibitions, sensor kiosks, eco-trails, interpretative routes.

Children’s camp for survival in the wild and outdoor classrooms. Walk with Rangers Programme offering one-day trips for groups of visitors along certain

trails in the NP accompanied by one the park’s rangers. Educational programme called “The Park as a Classroom”. Within the programme and in

partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Directorate has developed educational packages for environmental education (series of full-colour posters and guidebooks for teachers)


PART II: DESCRIPTION

6. LOCATION (COORDINATES AND MAP(S)):

6.1 Provide the biosphere reserve’s standard geographical coordinates (all projected under WGS 84):

Cardinal points: Latitude LongitudeMost central point: 42.799 24.85669Northernmost point: 43.19407 24.98565Southernmost point: 42.47458 24.98429Westernmost point: 42.73867 24.21962Easternmost point: 43.04933 25.35003

6.2 Provide a map(s) on a topographic layer of the precise location and delimitation of the three zones of the biosphere reserve (Map(s) shall be provided in both paper and electronic copies). Shapefiles (also in WGS 84 projection system) used to produce the map must be attached to the electronic copy of the form. If possible, also provide a link to access this map on the internet (e.g. Google map, website…).


7. AREA (see map):

Total: (ha)

Terrestrial Marine (if applicable) Total

7.1 Area of Core Area(s): 19831.32 ha*(20019.6 ha)**

N/A 19831.32 ha*(20 019.6 ha)**

7.2 Area of Buffer Zone(s): 51906.45 ha*(52001.47 ha)**

N/A 51906.45 ha*(52001.47 ha)**

7.3 Area of Transition Area(s): 297267.84 ha N/A 297267.84 ha

TOTAL: 369005.61 ha N/A 369005.61 ha


*size calculated according the electronic model/GIS map**size according the designation order of the protected area/s

7.4 Brief rationale of this zonation in terms of the respective functions of the biosphere reserve. If adifferent type of zonation also exists indicate how it can coexist with the requirements of thebiosphere reserve zonation. (e.g., if national criteria exist for the definition of the area or zones, please provide brief information about these).

The proposed BRCB has a core, buffer and transition zones. The proposed zonation allows the three functions of biosphere reserves to be performed, as follows:

Core zone

The Core zone covers the nine strict reserves within the CBNP: Boatin, Tsarichina, Kozya Stena, Steneto, Severen Dzhendem, Peeshti Skali, Sokolna, Dzhendema and Stara Reka.

According to the specific nationl legislation - Protected Areas Act the 9 reserves belong to the category with the highest legal protection and no any human activities are allowed with the exception of:

- guarding of the reserves;

- visits for scientific purposes;

- passage of pedestrians on the marked hiking trails, including for educational purposes;

- collection of seeds, wild plants and animals for scientific purposes or for their restoration elsewhere in quantities, manner and time, precluding damages to ecosystems;

- extinguishing fires and sanitary activities in forests damaged by natural disasters and calamities.The reserves are representative examples of ecosystems that comprise unique, remarkable and/or characteristic plant or animal species in their natural habitat. All are areas of prime conservation significance – listed as 1st category according to the PAA (corresponding with 1st category of IUCN classification). According the Management plan of Central Balkan National Park 2016-2025 the nine strict reserves are included in the so called Reserve Zone. The legislative regime of the territory contributes to the achievement of the primary purpose of the protected area – preservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species and genetic diversity and is a direct implementation of the conservation function of the Biosphere Reserves

Buffer zone

The Central Balkan National Park (CBNP) was established as People’s park in 1991 to conserve the unique natural scenery and heritage of this area and protect the customs and livelihood of the local population. It was designed as park around 9 strict nature reserves. In 1999 Central Balkan People’s park was reclassified into National Park (2nd category), following the adoption of the Bulgarian Protected Areas act (PAA) which introduced the IUCN management categories system. The whole territory is exclusive state property, which corresponds to the requirement for a National Park according to the Bulgarian legislation. The territory of the Park outside the 9 strict reserves is proposed as a Buffer zone of the Biosphere Reserve since it is functioning as a real buffer of human


intervention over the to the representative examples of natural ecosystems. According the Management plan of Central Balkan National Park 2016-2025 the Buffer zone of the Biosphere reserve coincide with four zones of the National Park: 1) Zone for Limited Human Impact includes territories adjacent to the reserve zone and its intended to reduce the anthropogenic impact on reserves and to serve as bio corridors between certain reserve areas to form a complete unfragmented territory that store natural processes, habitats and species. The total area of the zone is 25 414.30 ha, (2) Zone for Environmentaly-Friendly Tourism is defined as a collection of tourist routes and sites (rest places, sites of cultural and historical heritage, places for putting up fire, specialized sites and trails for interpretation and educational activities, sites and trails for alternative tourism and sports, sites for cultural and other events, main and secondary entrances to the park) in the park and tourist facilities serving them. The primary function of the Zone for Environmentally-friendly Tourism is to serve tourism and visitor flow management. In line with the main goals of the park, it enhances mostly trekking (walking) which provides visitors with opportunities for complete rest and spiritual enrichment in a way compatible with wild nature. Its total area is 180 ha. (3) Zone of Infrastructure includes the existing facilities of capital construction, adjacent sub-objects of technical nature, the land on which objects are built, specific territory differentiated around the objects in compliance with the individual nature of the site and statutory easements. The total area of the zone is 32.08 ha., and (4) Multifunctional Zone includes areas with rich biodiversity, areas important to the life cycle of conservation significant species as in high mountain pastures and as well as in high ancient forests. This zone secures long-term benefits from the sustainable use of natural resources through regulated grazing and hay-making, gathering of herbs, wild fruits and mushrooms, collection of wood for heating and for construction. The total area of the zone is 28 019.29 ha.. The Zone of Environmentaly friendly Tourism and Zone of Infrastructure are limited in size and disperced within the rest of the territory of the buffer zone. In all of these territories the human activities are perfomed according the introduced regulations and limits that it buffers the human impact on the Core Zone of the Biosphere rezerve.

Transition zone

The transition zone includes the territories of the following municipalities bordering CBNP: Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo, Sopot and Anton. The zone enhances the social, cultural and ecologically sustainable economic and human development that is the major performance of the development function.

In line with the Protected Areas Act, the Directorate of CBNP is an independent legal entity subordinated to the Ministry of Environment and Waters, established to manage the Central Balkan National Park (core and buffer zones of the proposed BP). The regimes, norms and conditions on the territory of the park are regulated by the PAA and the MP of the Park for the period 2016-2025. The Park Directorate carries out or coordinates the monitoring, research, training and education activities in cooperation with various stakeholders related to the management of the Core and Buffer zones. The local municipalities are implementing a lot of pilot activities and projects for sustainable development of the region primerely within the Transitional zone. In that way they contribute to the performance of the logistic function.

Apart from being a protected area under the PAA, CBNP is also a Natura 2000 site under the Biodiversity Act designated as a site under both Habitats and Birds directives. Whithin the Transitional zone there is a number of other Natura 2000 sites (13 SCIs and 8 SPAs) and other


small scale protected areas which additionally contribute to the implementation of the conservation function but in order for more effective management of the Biosphere reserve they remain in the Transitional zone.

8. BIOGEOGRAPHICAL REGION:[Indicate the generally accepted name of the biogeographical region in which the proposed biosphere reserve is located.](The term "major biogeographic region" is not strictly defined but you may wish to refer to the Udvardy classification system (http://www.unep-wcmc.org/udvardys-biogeographical-provinces-1975_745.html)).

Palaearctic Biogeographical realm – Balkan Highlands

9. LAND USE:

9.1 Historical:(If known, give a brief summary of past/historical land use(s), resource uses and landscape dynamics of each zone of the proposed biosphere reserve).

The following information concerns the history of resources use primarily within the the core and buffer zones

1. Use of the forest fund Two main periods can be seen in the use of forest resources in the region where the NP is now located: use in the near past and use in the far past.

1.1.Use in the far pastThis period covers time from Antiquity up to the Liberation of Bulgaria in 1878, i.e. to the beginning of the 20th century. Although there is a lack of sufficient and accurate written information, the main characteristics of this period are intensive shrinking of the area of high-mountainous coniferous forests due to intensive use and fires. For the low-mountainous forests in the oak belt, offshoot management was more common.

There are grounds to believe that present-day horizontal and vertical structure of forests in CBNP is, to a great extent, the result of human activities in the far past.

First data on more substantial use of resources goes back to the 3rd-4th century BC when people used huge quantities of coniferous timber – mostly black and Scotch pine in the areas of Beklemeto, Kurthisar, Stanchov Polugar and others. Timber was used for the construction and repairs of high-mountainous (above 1500 m above sea level) road stations and watch towers, buildings, mining poles, strengthening of underground galleries, construction of roads and other infrastructure. The burning and cutting of coniferous forests in ancient times has led to current fragmentation of the location of certain woods - of black pine, Scotch pine, spruce, etc. Burning of high-mountainous forests was caused by the fast development of grazing and affected mostly the massifs of Mt. Vezhen, Triglav, the area of Beklemeto Pass and others. The burning of tree vegetation in that period led to the present location of the upper line of forests at 1300-1700 m above sea level.


1.2. Use in the near pastThis period covers the time from the beginning of the previous century till the present. In the first half of that century, people used mostly big assortments of coniferous tree species. The second half of the period (from the 50s till the designation of the Park) was characterized by planned economy, gradual and clear fellings on large areas, intensive use of mature beech forests, targeted replacement of the beech by non-typical coniferous species.

For the decade of 1936-1946, only the territory of Cherni Osam Forestry yielded 200000 m3 of timber, mainly first class (over 50 cm in diameter). After 1944, a general inventory was carried out in forests with the purpose to identify the full opportunities for timber use and use of other side products. Up until the period of nationalization (1950), the planning of fellings was not conformed with the regularity of use. Common damaging of the lower forest layers during the cuttings were often one of the reasons to start forestation by coniferous species.

2. Agricultural useSummer grazing in the high mountain meadows has been a traditional activity which constituted one of the most significant life support for the populations on both side of the mountains. A dramatic drop of domestic animal numbers, and in consequence of summer grazing, occurred in the early 90's, following the political changes and the land restitution to private owners outside the park. Lack of grazing has been clearly identified as a major threat for biodiversity, many pasture areas being colonized by junipers and other low shrubs (heath, Vaccinium spp.) and returning eventually to forests if no appropriate measure is taken.

The grazing of livestock in the high part of CBNP is a traditional activity, practiced for millennia. The mountain stock-breeding used to be a traditional means of living for part of the local population. On the other hand, the grazing is one of the essential factors for the formation of the specific high mountain habitats of endemic, rare, threatened and relict species, subject to protection in the national park and in the European ecological network – Natura 2000. The high mountain part of the park is currently an important species formation center.Over the last 20 years before 2007 the number of grazing animals was significantly reduced. The insufficient grazing brings to changes in the vegetation cover in some parts of CBNP which in some cases can cause the loss of certain species.

3. Hunting and fishingFishing was practiced traditionally by local population in the past. The decrease of Balkan trout numbers in the past years is probably the result of the influence of complex factors including fishing.

Before the designation of the territory, it was also used for hunting of big game – bears, red deer, wild boar, chamois and others. The territory of the present-day park was even a site for international hunting tourism.

4. Gathering of non-timber resourcesData for the collection of natural resources – medicinal plants, mushrooms, snails, spices, etc. come mostly from the representative sociological research (1997-1998) among population of the municipalities lying at 25 to 30 km around the park. The assessment showed 69000 people (53% of population around the park) who were using directly the natural resources of Stara Planina. Many of them, however, do not enter the protected territory.


Many of the natural resources are used by people from settlements farther than 25-30 km from the park. It can be assumed quite surely that local population gathers resources from the areas directly adjacent to the park and partially from the park, totaling 187 tons of forest fruits, 218 tons of medicinal plants, 77 tons of spices, 229 tons of snails and 924 tons of mushrooms per year. Numbers are average.

Gathering of natural products as a livelihood for local people around the park

Collection(% of people)

Forest fruits Medicinal plants

Spices Snails Mushrooms

Personal use 93 92 95 66 82Sales 7 8 5 33 18

Historically speaking, economic and spiritual upsurge came to the lowland in the South especially to the region of Karlovo and Pavel Banya municipalities with the growing of roses and the production of rose oil exported to England, France and Istanbul in the past, and to the whole world in modern times. Past years have seen fast growth of agriculture and stock-breeding on the territory of the municipality incl. the biological production of oil from roses and lavender, as well as the breeding of local autochthonic breeds of sheep, goats, cows and horses.

9.2 Who are the main users of the biosphere reserve? (for each zone, and main resources used). If applicable, describe the level of involvement of indigenous people taking into account the “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples”. (http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii/documents/DRIPS_en.pdf).

The core zone of BRCB, according to present legislation, does not allow use of resources. The core zone encompass the nine strict reserves on the territory of the Park which are strictly protected. According to Protected Areas Act the reserves are the protected areas with the higest legal protection, which does not allows any other activities except guarding, providing of scientific researches and passing of visitors through paths determined with an order of the minister of environment and waters.

For the purposes of CBNP Management Plan for the period 2016-2025, adjacent territories have been defined to the CB National Park with a total area of 5 640 km2 surrounding the Park from all sides to a distance of 25 km from its boundaries (part of the transition zone of the proposed BP). The main user of resources in the buffer zone of BRCB (the Multi-functional zone of CBNP) is the population from the adjacent territories. It uses the following resources: grazing and hay-making, wood for heating, gathering of herbs, wild fruit sand mushrooms.

Water resources. On the territory of the park, there are hydro-energetic, irrigation and water supply installations. The rivers starting from CBNP are used for production of electricity, water supply and irrigation of the territories and settlements outside the park.

9.3 What are the rules (including customary or traditional) of land use in and access to each zone of


the biosphere reserve?

In the core zone it is not not allowed any use of natural resources.

Within the buffer zone it is allowed grazing, hay gathering, obtaining of fire wood remaining from restoration and maintenance activities in the forests, collection of medicinal plants and fruits, tourist activities. This means that in buffer zone of the proposed biosphere reserve are possible abovementioned uses under valid regulations in the national park. According to PAA and the Management plan of the national park the agriculture and hunting in the park is prohibited. Angling is prohibited by the Management plan.

GrazingThe PAA prohibits the grazing in the forests of the national parks and the grazing of goats in the national parks, given their negative impact on the forest plantations. Outside the forest areas and particularly in the grasslands, grazing could be provided only by following specific norms and regimes, determined by the management plans.According to the management plan of CBNP, the grazing is permitted in the meadows and the pastures within the buffer zone.It should be noted that the management plan of CBNP not only allows the grazing, defining specific norms and regimes for its implementation, but also recognizes the grazing as a need in order to preserve and maintain the biodiversity in the high treeless zone of the park.The park directorate prepares annual plans for grazing, which define the locations where grazing could be provided according to the zoning of the park and the standards set by the Management Plan. Within the preparation of the abovementioned grazing plans, is being assessed the conservation state of the particular territories and on the basis of this assessment is determined the appropriate number of the grazing animals.

Sharp increase in the number of applications for grazing in the Park is observed in 2007, after the start of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) run by the Ministry of agriculture and food supply. This interest is due to amount of national and EU funds, aimed at supporting of farmers, practicing traditional farming and recovering of the local traditional practices.

Currently, the grazing in the high pastures of CBNP does not pose a threat.Hay is another agricultural activity that is permitted in the park and subject to certain regulations in Management and Annual grazing plans.

Medicinal plantsAccording to the Management plan of the CBNP the collection of certain medicinal plants and wild fruits is allowed in multifunctional zone.Medicinal and aromatic plant collection varies quite significantly from one year to the next, depending upon the demand from the pharmaceutical industry. Berry collection is quite popular, but is authorized only during a limited period of time. For this purpose annually park directorate develops and implements an Annual plan for the use of medicinal plants and wild fruits. Based on phenological observations and resource evaluation of the medicinal plants and wild fruits, the plan determines the locations and areas where gathering is allowed, the type and amounts of medicinal plants and wild fruits eligible for collection; the period during which they can be harvested and the procedure for submission and review of applications and issuing of permissions for the collection.


Those wishing to collect non-timber natural resources for commercial purposes shall apply for the type and quantity. Director of CBNP Directorate according to the available resources, issues an order authorizing/refusing the collection of medicinal plants or wild berries. If the warrant authorizes the use of the resource, the applicant is issued a permit for the collection of non-timber natural products.

Forestry In the past decade the industrial logging was not allowed in the park. Use of wood is carried out within the maintenance and restoration activities in the forests in multifunctional, touristic and infrastructure zones. The wood obtained is sold at minimal price to mountain chalets on the territory of the park for fire wood and is used by park administration as construction wood. There is stable downward trend in the use of all types of wood (logging/recovery) taken in the park during the period 1991 – 2016. The uses in the forests are significantly below the natural rate and there is no registered case of interference which has contributed to the degradation of the ecosystems. The current trend is to maintain and gradually reduce consumption as construction timber and of firewood.

Water resources The use of water resources is carried out according the Law on waters. The procedure of issuing permits of water use and the control over the permitions is carried out by the River Basin Directorates – other regional structures of the MOEW.

In the transition zone, there are no limitations over access or land use. The lands are used by the respective owners or users in accordance with the provisions of national or European legislation which regulate the regimes of use. Land use, as well as the use of natural resources and all economic activities are provided in accordance with the Master Plans of the corresponding municipalities, the Regional Development Plans of the concrete regions, the Municipal Development Plans, and others.All the investment intentions, plans, programs and projects in the buffer and tranzition zones are subject to the corresponding assessments envisaged by the Environment Protection Act and Biodiversity conservation Act, including the Appropriate assessment for ensuring compatibility with the objectives and purposes of conservation in Natura 2000 sites.

9.4 Describe women’s and men’s different levels of access to and control over resources. (Do men and women use the same resources differently (e.g., for subsistence, market, religious/ritual purposes), or use different resources?).

The womens’ roles have not posted an issue in Bulgarian society for the last 100 years at least. The matter has not been subject to special attention as women are treated equally to men with no exceptions in society in general. The areas adjoining the reserve are no exception either.No studies devoted to gender dependent control over sources of income have been conducted.No studies have been made examining different access to sources of income related to gender.

10. HUMAN POPULATION OF PROPOSED BIOSPHERE RESERVE:[Approximate number of people living within the proposed biosphere reserve]


Permanently Seasonally10.1 Core Area(s) ______0 No data

10.2 Buffer Zone(s) ______0 No data

10.3 Transition Area(s)

Sevlievo – 33559Karlovo - 50 016Anton - 1 806Troyan – 30080Pavel banya 14186-

No data

Total: 129647 No data

10.4 Brief description of local communities living within or near the proposed biosphere reserve. (Indicate ethnic origin and composition, minorities etc., main economic activities (e.g. pastoralism, tourism) and the location of their main areas of concentration, with reference to the map (section 6.2)).

According to the Constitution of Republic of Bulgaria and the specific Bulgarian legislation –Protected areas act, the nature reserves and the national parks which correspond to category 1 and 2 of IUCN, are exclusively state property and no human settlements are allowed within their boundaries. In line with the above, there is no human population in the reserves (core zone) and in whole other parts of CBNP (buffer zone).

During the permited grasing season of domestic animals in the buffer zone there is a limited number of hearders who inhabit temporrary the area for about 3 months yearly.

Five municipalities of Karlovo, Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel banya and Anton joined the Biosphere Reserve with a total permanent population of 129647 inhabitants. The main economic activities are performed in the tranzitional zone of the Biosphere Reserve.

The ethnic groups which inhabit the Transitional zone are Bulgarians, Turks, Roma and Karakachan.

10.5 Name(s) of the major settlement(s) within and near the proposed biosphere reserve withreference to the map (section 6.2):

Major settlements within the Biospfere Reserve: towns - Karlovo, Kalofer, Pavel Banya, Troyan, Sevlievo, villages – Anton;

Major settlements in the vicinity of the Biosphere Reserve: towns - Sopot, Kazanlak, Gabrovo, Apriltsi, Teteven, Pirdop, Lovech.

10.6 Cultural significance:(Briefly describe the proposed biosphere reserve's importance in terms of past and current cultural values (religious, historical, political, social, ethnological) and others, if possible with distinction between material and intangible heritage (c.f. UNESCO Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage 1972 and UNESCO Convention for the Safeguard of the Intangible Cultural Heritage 2003 (http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-


http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=13055&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html

URL_ID=13055&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html and http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=17716&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html)).

Central Balkan NP is a part of an important physical and symbolic space where one can see how this part of the European continent was utilized by man in historic times. The different tribes, ethnic groups and peoples who have inhabited or passed through the area have established their own practices and strategies in communicating with nature, and have left material and spiritual values that today are an important part of the cultural and historical heritage. All these sites and values reveal different sides of the mountain culture within which the region developed through the various epochs. The symbolic meaning of the Balkan in the process of establishing Bulgarian national ideology and identity is equally significant.

The tangible cultural values existing on the territory of CBNP can generally be divided in two categories:

Tangible archaeological cultural values – Thracian sanctuaries, mines, Thracian-and-Roman roads and Roman road stations, remains of Medieval fortresses, etc.

Tangible Renaissance cultural values – monuments and localities related to people’s memory and the Bulgarian national movement in the 19th century – places of battles or where famous revolutionaries were killed, etc.

The region of CBNP is of high national importance for the historical, cultural and other aspects of national pride. It is extremely valuable for scientific research, education and creative inspiration. On its territory are found the highest Roman roads in the country (highest one located at 2150above sea level), Roman road stations (highest at 1600 m above sea level) and Roman mines. The region is the most important one in Bulgaria for the existence of Karakachan culture and Karakachan breeds of domestic animals.

10.7 Specify the number of spoken and written languages (including ethnic, minority and endangered languages) in the biosphere reserve.(Refer, for instance, to the UNESCO Atlas of Endangered languages (http://www.unesco.org/culture/languages-atlas/index.php)).

The official language is Bulgarian and the region it is the main spoken and written language. Other spoken languages are Turkish, Romani and dialekt of Greek language spoken by the Karakachan people.

11. BIOPHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

11.1 General description of site characteristics and topography of area:(Briefly describe the major topographic features (wetlands, marshes, mountain ranges, dunes etc.) which most typically characterize the landscape of the area).

The proposed Biosphere reserve Central Balkan is located in the region of the central and higher part of Stara planina Mountain (named Balkan Range) – the main range of the Balkan Peninsula and Bulgaria and an extension of the Alpine-Carpathian folds. The hart of the biosphere reserve is


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulgarian_language

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Official_language

http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=13055&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html

CBNP and it contains of rare and endangered wildlife species and communities, self-regulating ecosystems with great biological diversity, as well as historical sites of global cultural and scientific significance.CBNP is the biggest well protected old beech forest massif in Bulgaria. Beech occupies 29 960.4 ha – 71% of the forests in the National Park and 5.2% of the area of the beech forests in Bulgaria. Forests of natural origin in the park are approximately 97%. Most of them are not affected by human activity in the last century. The average age of the beech communities in CBNP is 135 years.

Wide distribution of the species in CBNP includes the beech forests of the Asperulo-Fagetum, Luzulo-Fagetum and Medio-European limestone beech forests of the Cephalanthero-Fagion habitat types. Less represented and fragmented are the forests of Moesian beech. A majority of the forests in the park are composed of broadleaf species – common beech, European hornbeam, durmast, sycamore and others. The coniferous are mainly Norway spruce and Rumelian pine and the mixed forests consist mainly of common beech and silver fir.

Geography: CBNP and its reserves are located in the central part of Bulgaria and includes the central and higher portions of the Balkan Mountain Range. The altitude of the Park ranges from 500 to 2 376 masl. Botev peak is the highest peak in the Park and in the Balkan Range.The Park contains sections of five administrative regions and falls within nine municipalities.

11.2 Altitudinal range:

11.2.1 Highest elevation above sea level: 2376 metres

11.2.2 Lowest elevation above sea level: 201 metres

11.2.3 For coastal/marine areas, maximum depth below mean sea level: metres

11.3 Climate:(Briefly describe the climate of the area, you may wish to use the regional climate classification by Köppen as suggested by WMO (http://www.wmo.int/pages/themes/climate/understanding_climate.php)).

Climate: The proposed biosphere reserve lies in 3 main climatic areas mountain, moderate continental and transitory. According to Köppen climate classification system the biosphere reserve will be covered by the climate zones with native vegetation that includes temperate deciduous forests; boreal forest and tundra.

The mountain climate area is higher than 1000 masl. Its northern foothills experience a moderate continental climate and its southern parts are characterized by transitory conditions. The climate elements vary significantly in the biosphere reserve with its higher elevations, slope, exposure of slopes, and the significantly indented terrain. The average annual temperature is 7°C (mean in January – -6°C; mean in July – 11.8°C). The precipitation increases with height and usually reaches 1,200 mm/year and is more abundant on the northern slopes. The snow cover remains for approximately six months. The mountain climate area is characterized by frequent and strong winds.

The northern foothills of the CBNP experience uncharacteristically warm spring winds (foehn), while turbulent boreal winds can occur on the southern slopes.


The territory of Municipalities of Troyan and Sevlievo – the north part of transition zone, the territory of Municipality of Anton and partly the territory of Municipality of Karlovo (western part) – the southern part of transition zone, falls in climate zone of moderate continental climate. This climate is characterized with hot summers and long, cold and snowy winters. The territory of Municipality of Pavel banya and partly the territory of Municipality of Karlovo (eastern part) – the southern part of transition zone, falls in transitory climate zone. This zone is characterized with soft winters, cool springs and hot summers.

11.3.1 Average temperature of the warmest month: 22°С

11.3.2 Average temperature of the coldest month: -6°С

11.3.3 Mean annual precipitation:________ mm, recorded at an elevation of _______ metresNo data

11.3.4 Is there a meteorological station in or near the proposed biosphere reserve? If so, what is its name and location and how long has it been operating?

There are 6 hydro-meteorological stations around the CBNPD called Teteven, Troyan, Gabrovo, Botev peak, Karlovo and Kalofer. In addition, there is a climatic station in Sevlievo which is working from 1954.

11.4 Geology, geomorphology, soils:(Briefly describe important formations and conditions, including bedrock geology, sedimentary deposits, and important soil types).

Geology: The Balkanides are the largest formation from Neogene and Quaternary periods, occurred alongside the development of the Alps and Himalayan mountain chains. This system is represented in Bulgaria by three longitudinal parts Pre-Balkan, Balkan Range and Srednogorie areas.

The park area is made of magma plutonic bodies, sediment, and metamorphous rocks of the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Paleogenic age.

CBNP has a complex geological history and structure. 4 denudation levels with richly diverse geomorphological elements are observed. These include flattened ridges, steep slopes, granite over-thrusts, and well expressed surface and underground limestone forms. There are deep canyons, individual rocks and rock walls, deep precipices and water caves in the park.One quarter of the forested area of the park is on granite rock. Next in distribution are the crystalline schists, the sandstone, the clay, the granodiorite and the dolomite. Others include granite gneiss, marl, lime, and quartz porphyry.

Soils: In CBNP brown forest, cinnamonic forest, mountain forest dark, mountain meadow soils and rendzines prevail.The brown forest soils (Dystric-Eutric Cambisols) cover the middle forest vegetation belt and occupy 96.9% of the forest area. They are formed mainly over non-carbonate rocks (granite, gneiss, crystalline schist, sand). Their characteristic feature is the full soil profile.


The cinnamonic forest soils (Chromic Luvisols) occur in the lowest mountain sections and occupy 2.1% of the forest area. They cover predominantly dry and broken landforms and overlay non-carbonic rocks.The mountain forest dark soils (Umbric Cambisols) are insignificant in the forest fund (1.0%). They cover parts of the Middle and High-Mountain belts.The mountain meadow soils (Modic Cambisols) occupy the highest parts of the park. They are formed on non-carbonaceous rocks, under completely grass vegetation.Rendzinas occur on a limited area in the karst regions in the park.

11.5 Bioclimatic zone: (Indicate the bioclimatic region in which the proposed biosphere reserve is located, refer to the table below and tick the appropriate box for each area of the biosphere reserve).

Areas Average annual rainfall/mm

Aridity index Core area(s)

Buffer zone(s)

Transition area(s)Penman (UNEP index)

Hyper-arid P<100 <0.05 <0.05Arid 100-400 0.05-0.28 0.05-0.20Semi-arid 400-600 0.28-0.43 0.21-0.50Dry Sub-humid 600-800 0.43-0.60 0.51-0.65 V

Moist Sub-humid 800-1200 0.60-0.90 >0.65 V V

Per-humid P>1200 >0.90Table 1: Aridity index resulting from the use of P/ETPMean annual precipitation (P)/mean annual potential evapotranspiration (ETP)

Hydrological regime: BRCB is rich in water resources. The Park's deep karst performs significant regulatory functions in supplying underground water to rivers, and the large forested areas contribute significantly to water retention in the watershed.

The main line dividing the rivers of the Black Sea and Aegean watersheds follows along the ridge of the Balkan Range. This line divides the Park in two parts, a northern part with the waters draining to the Danube and to the Black Sea and southern with waters draining to the Maritsa River and to the Aegean Sea.

The main rivers originating in the Park are Vit, Osam, Rositsa and Tundzha. The higher degree of forestation makes the northern part more favourable for surface runoff formation.The basins of the rivers high on the southern slopes of the Park are small and steep with a large water outflow. The average annual volume of water formed in CBNP is 460 million m3. The water in the Park represents a significant part of Bulgaria’s drinking water reserves.

11.6 Biological characteristics:

List main habitat types (e.g. tropical evergreen forest, savanna woodland, alpine tundra, coral reef, kelp beds) and land cover types (e.g. residential areas, agricultural land, pastoral land, cultivated areas, rangeland).


For each type, indicate:- REGIONAL if the habitat or land cover type is widely distributed within the biogeographical region within which the proposed biosphere reserve is located, to assess the habitat's or land cover type's representativeness;

- LOCAL if the habitat or land cover type is of limited distribution within the proposed biosphere reserve, to assess the habitat's or land cover type's uniqueness.

For each habitat or land cover type, list characteristic species and describe important natural processes (e.g. tides, sedimentation, glacial retreat, natural fire) or human impacts (e.g. grazing, selective cutting, agricultural practices) affecting the system. As appropriate, refer to the vegetation or land cover map provided as supporting documentation.

Habitats and vegetation: With regard to phyto-geography, the park area is included in the Central Balkan District of the Ilyrian Province, of the European Deciduous Forest Area.

On the territory of CBNP diverse natural ecosystems exist. In general they can be classified by their belonging to the dominant biomes of deciduous and coniferous forests, pastures, meadows and other grassy communities, cliffs and caves, rivers, wetlands and mountain lakes.

More detail please find in point 14.1.1.

The territory of the Biosphere reserve contains a wide variety of natural habitats. Here are found more than 50 habitat types according the EU Habitats Directive.

12. ECOSYSTEM SERVICES:

12.1 If possible, identify the ecosystem services provided by each ecosystem of the biosphere reserve and the beneficiaries of these services. (Please refer to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Framework and The Economics of Ecosystems and

Biodiversity (TEEB) Framework (http://millenniumassessment.org/en/Framework.html and

http://www.teebweb.org/publications/teeb-study-reports/foundations/)).

The following ecosystem services are provided by the natural capital of the region:

Material services (products from ecosystems). The group includes the following ecosystem services:

Provision of food products acquired by non-timber use of forests in CBNP (medicinal plants, wild fruits, mushrooms)

Provision of timber Access to genetic resources Provision of water


http://millenniumassessment.org/en/Framework.html

The users of these material services are mostly the citizens of settlements aroung CBNP (transition zone of BRCB).

Regulatory services (benefits from processes in the ecosystems) The group includes: Mitigation and regulation of impacts of climate change Water regulation and water-protection service Avoiding soil erosion

The users of regulatory services are the citizens of settlements in the transition zone ad visitors to the core and buffer zones of BRCB.

Cultural and social services (non-material benefits of ecosystems)The following services are included here: Educational value Provision of conditions for recreation and tourism Aesthetic value of landscape Forests as a source of cultural services and inspiration for people, and as a symbol of

spiritual and religious identityThe users of regulatory services are the citizens of settlements in the transition zone ad visitors to the core and buffer zones of BRCB.

Maintenance services (ecosystem functions necessary for the provision of all other services)The group includes: Soil structuring Primary production Photosynthesis Nutrition circle Water circle

The users of regulatory services are the citizens of settlements in the transition zone ad visitors to the core and buffer zones of BRCB.

12.2 Specify whether indicators of ecosystem services are used to evaluate the three functions (conservation, development and logistic) of biosphere reserves. If yes, which ones and give details.

At the present moment, MOEW is running a project BG03.PDP2 Мethodological Support for the Evaluation of Ecosystem Services and Biophysical Evaluation (METECOSMAP). It includes the elaboration of National Methodological Framework for Mapping and Evaluation of Ecosystems. Methodologies will be provided for the agri-ecosystems, grassland ecosystems, shrub ecosystems, marine ecosystems, areas of scarce or no vegetation, rivers and lakes, wetlands, forest ecosystems, urbanized ecosystems. These methodologies will be also applied in NATURA 2000 zones which include BRCB. Developed methodologies also include a set of indicators for ecosystem services.

12.3 Describe biodiversity involved in the provision of ecosystems services in the biosphere reserve (e.g. species or groups of species involved).

Target forest ecosystems included in the assessment of ecosystem services in 12.4 re as follows:


Ecosystem of xerophyte forests of oriental hornbeam; Ecosystem of xero-mesophyte and mesophyte mixed oak and hornbeam forests; Ecosystem of mesophyte to xero-mesophyte beech forests; Ecosystem of mesophilic and xerophyte coniferous forests; Ecosystem of mixed deciduous and coniferous forests.

12.4 Specify whether any ecosystem services assessment has been done for the proposed biosphere reserve. If yes, is this assessment used to develop the management plan?

Evaluation of ecosystem service has only been done for the forests in CBNP (the core and buffer zones of the proposed biosphere reserve). Within the project DIR-5113325-12-109 “Central Balkan – Park for all”, funded by the Environment 2007-2013 Operational Programme, CBNP Directorate commissioned the preparation of a report on „Evaluation of the ecosystem services offered by the forests of Central Balkan National Park”, 2015. The report about the valuation of ecosystem services gives a view of the financial value of the provided services by CBNP forests. Ecosystem services have been grouped in the following categories:

Material services – products gained from the ecosystems; Regulatory services – benefits from the processes in the ecosystems; Cultural and social services – non-material benefits from ecosystems; Maintenance services – ecosystem functions necessary for the provision of all

other services.

During the valuation of ecosystem services in CBNP (core and buffer zone of BRCB), an area of 41926.5 ha was used (58% of the park territory) which includes forested areas and non-forestry ones overgrown with trees and bushes with calculated reserves as per the new inventory under the current project. Forests occupy about 58% of the whole park territory. A significant part of these forests (85%) are deciduous, 44% of the whole park being covered by beech woods. Coniferous forests occupy a limited area, mostly in the higher western and eastern parts of the park. Mixed forests, too, have limited territories. The woodless zone covers about 42% of the park including mainly grass and shrub communities.

Ecosystem services have a value but as most of them (with the exception of material services) are not sold or bought on the market, it is very hard to determine their price. That is why natural resources have been evaluated by their overall contribution to people’s welfare and the term used is Overall Economic Cost (OEC).

Based on collected data, OEC of CBNP forests can be estimated as 5 314.88 BGN per ha per year. (see below table)

Material ecosystemsName: Type of ecosystem service Value (lv/ha/year)NP Supply of food from no-timber

use of the forests3,05

W Supply of timber 8,81GR Access to genetic resources 5,40DW Water supply 428, 84


At the present moment, MOEW is running a project BG03.PDP2 Мethodological Support for the Evaluation of Ecosystem Services and Biophysical Evaluation (METECOSMAP). It includes the elaboration of National Methodological Framework for Mapping and Evaluation of Ecosystems. Methodologies will be provided for the agri-ecosystems, grassland ecosystems, shrub ecosystems, marine ecosystems, areas of scarce or no vegetation, rivers and lakes, wetlands, forest ecosystems, urbanized ecosystems. These methodologies will be also applied in NATURA 2000 zones which include BRCB.

13. MAIN OBJECTIVES FOR THE BIOSPHERE RESERVE’S DESIGNATION:

13.1 Describe the main objectives of the proposed biosphere reserve, integrating the three functions (conservation, development and logistic), presented below (sections 14 to 16), including components of biological and cultural diversity. Please specify the indirect pressures and/or organizational issues.

The main objectives of the proposed biosphere reserve are greatly inter-related with the ones set in the CBNP Management Plan for the period 2016-2025, as follows:

Objective 1 Provide a long-term protection of biotic components in BRCB (conservation function);

Objective 2 Preserve landscape and other abiotic components of BRCB (conservation function);

Objective 3 Provide opportunities for development of environmentally-friendly livelihoods and nature-based tourism in the area of the biosphere reserve (development function);

Objective 4 Create conditions for development of scientific and research activities, monitoring, environmental education, training and exchange of experience.

The vision of the proposed biosphere reserve for the next 10 years is the following:Biosphere reserve Central Balkan – attractive place with conserved nature,

culture and traditions, good environment for social and economic development, combined with the hospitality of the local communities.

13.2 Describe the sustainable development objectives of the biosphere reserve. (If appropriate, please refer to Agenda 21, Rio+20 and SDG post 2015).

The main objectives of the proposed biosphere reserve of CB described in 13.1 are in line with the following goals/sub-goals for sustainable development from the Programme for Sustainable Development up to 2030:

Goal 15. Protection, restoration and stimulation of the sustainable use of land ecosystems, sustainable management of forests, fight against the expansion of non-arable lands, reversing the process of land degradation and prevention of the loss of biodiversity.


15.1 Securing, by 2020, the protection, restoration and sustainable use of land and inner freshwater ecosystems and their services, especially forests, wetlands, mountainous and dry areas, in accordance with the obligations deriving from international agreements

…15.4 Securing, by 2020, the protection of mountainous ecosystems, incl. their biological diversity with the purpose of strengthening their capacities to provide benefits of substantial importance for sustainable development.

13.3 Indicate the main stakeholders involved in the management of the biosphere reserve.

The main stakeholders in the management of the proposed BRCB are as follows: MOEW; CBNP Directorate; RIEW of Pleven, Veliko Tarnovo, Stara Zagora, Plovdiv and Sofia; Basin Directorates for Water Management of Danube Region (Pleven) and East-Aegean Region (Plovdiv); state forestry and hunting estates; District Governors of Lovech, Gabrovo, Stara Zagora and Plovdiv; Mayors (municipal administrations) of Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo and Anton Municipalities; village mayors; regional and national NGOs; users of resources within BRCB; tour operators offering services in the region; scientific institutesl craftsmen from the region; tourist associations and others.

13.4 What consultation procedure was used for designing the biosphere reserve?

In the CBNP Management Plan 2016-2025, with a high priority it is envisaged that the Park should be incorporated into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of MAP/UNESCO including preparation of documentation with all necessary elements for a contemporary biosphere reserve in accordance with the Seville Strategy. The updated Management Plan was approved by the Council of Ministers in 2016 after a wide consultation in the period November 2013 – February 2016, e.g. meetings and workshops with participation of local, regional and national stake holders, information campaign, information meetings in settlements in the vicinity of the National park, official public hearing held on 11.03.2014 attended by the Bulgarian Minister and Deputy Minister of Environment and Waters, members of Parliament, district governors, mayors and over 100 other representatives of the stakeholders from the region and the country.

In 2014 the MOEW started a process of revision of the existing biosphere reserves in Bulgaria in compliance with modern requirements. Consequently, the MOEW sent letters to the municipalities bordering CBNP with information about exit strategy of MAB on the biosphere reserves and an invitation to participate in the process of planning new type of biosphere reserve. The first information and consultation meetings were held with municipality of Karlovo. The Local parliament (Municipal Council) of Karlovo took the decision to join the Biosphere Reserve and its Transitional zone already in 25.06.2015 (Decision N: 2332). After that, the consultation process continued with information and consultation meetings with the other municipalities which have the ‘old’ type of biosphere reserves within their administrative boundaries, starting with the Park Directorate (02.12.2015) and then the municipalities of Teteven (21.01.2016), Troyan (22.01.2016), Pavel Banya (12.02.2016) and municipality of Karlovo (12.02.2016).

The results of the Consultation process were reported to the National MAB Committee in March 2016. With the positive decissions of the Municiaplity of Karlovo and the Municipality of Troyan to


join the Biosphere Reserve the Committee decided to continue with the nomination process and consultations with the rest of municipalities.

Meetings with the rest of municipalities in the vicinity of the Central Balkan National Park were held Apriltsi (17.06.2016), Sevlievo (17.06.2016), Anton (30.06.2016), Pirdop (30.06.2016) and Sopot (30.06.2016). Addition consultation meetings we held in Troyan Municipality (21.06.2016), Teteven Municipality (21.06.2016), and public hearing in Teteven Municipality on 29.07.2016. These individual meetings with the municipalities were attended by representatives of CBNP Directorate and BBF and whenever necessary and possible by MOEW representatives. They were followed by a general meeting in Karlovo on 07.07.2016 and a workshop/seminar in Troyan (Chiflik) on 25-27.07.2016.

During the general meeting in Karlovo in addition to the review of the current Biosphere Reserves concept and the presentation of good international examples the nomination of the whole region of Central Balkan as a tool for regional development was discussed. The meeting was hosted by the Mayor of Karlovo Municipality, representatives of MOEW, CBNPD and BBF presented the key elements of the Biosphere reserves. Most of the municipalities took part in the meetings and the discussed the different aspects of the nomination of the region. The opening part of the meeting was recorded and posted in the YouTube channel of the municipality of Karlovo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEgBEs1k-VQ). There were other media representatives, as well as scientists from the Bulgarian Academy of Sceinces and Sofia University.


The seminar in Chiflik, Troyan Municipality (25-27.07.2016) about the designation of a potential biosphere reserve in Central Balkan was hosted by the municipality of Troyan and the deputy mayor and was also attended by representatives of CBNPD, municipal experts from the region, producers of local products, scientists, NGOs, etc. Information about various examples from the UNESCO biosphere reserves network were presented, good practices with a regional brand were also discussed, as well as possibilities to further inform the general population about the concept. Furthermore, the nomination content was discussed in detail at the meeting, as well as the main objectives, zoning and functioning of the sites. Further arrangements were made for the preparation of the documentation.


As a result of a consultation process five municiaplities took decisions to join the Biosphere Reserve: Karlovo (Decision N /25.06.2015), Troyan (Decision N:9/28.04.2016), Sevlievo (Decision N:235/26.07.2016), Pavel Banya (Decision N:298/28.07.2016) and Anton (Decision N:14/25.08.2016). Copies of the decisions are attached to the nomination form.

The process was financially supported by two projects:

In 2015 SEMEPAof MOEW funded the project: “Preparation of the Process of revision of the Network of Biosphere Reserves in Bulgaria” developed and implemented by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF). The main task of the project is to apply the modern concept and criteria for planning, organization and management of the biosphere reserves designated under the MAB Programme.

In 2016 The project “Linking conservation with sustainable rural areas” called in short “For the Balkan and people” through the Association of Parks in Bulgaria and BBF suported the nomination preparation. The project is funded by the Bulgarian Swiss Cooperation Programme – Civil Society Participation Fund.

13.5 How will stakeholder involvement in implementing and managing the biosphere reserve be fostered?

Active involvement of the main stakeholders in the nomination and management of the site is of key importance for the functioning of BRCB. Special attention will be paid to the informing of stakeholders about the objectives of the proposed biosphere reserve and their opportunities to participate. What is envisaged here are media publications and publications on the web site of CBNPD; printing and dissemination of information materials: leaflets, brochures, posters, etc. on the other hand, this will help the promotion of BRCB itself and the opportunities offered by the region. An important part of the process of involving stakeholders will be the consulting. There the parties will have the opportunity to express opinions and/or recommendations about the management policy of the biosphere reserve. In order to recognize the BP as ‘their own’, stakeholders will take part in the decision making process for the park. Joint implementation of the taken decisions (joint action) will be a ley moment of the park’s management.

In order to secure the participation of different stakeholders in the functioning of the biosphere reserve, a Special Group will be established by the Consultative Council of CBNP which will include representatives of the partners signing the agreement and all major stakeholders incl. local authorities (all participating municipalities), CBNPD, other regional structures of the MOEW, regional structures of the Executive Forestry Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, local businesses, agricultural producers, tourist associations, NGOs (environmental, youth, women’s), academic and educational institutions, cultural ones, scientific and research institutes.

13.6 What are the expected main sources of resources (financial, material and human) to implement the objectives of the biosphere reserve and projects within it? (Please provide formal commitments and engagements.)


14. CONSERVATION FUNCTION:

14.1. At the level of landscapes and ecosystems (including soils, water and climate):

On the territory of the proposed biosphere reserve physical landscape includes mountains, mountain range, Fore Balkan, Balkan valleys and forests. Cultural landscape is presented mainly in the transition area with its three categories.In buffer zone (in particular in multifunctional zone of the CBNP) organically evolved cultural landscape can be determine. This is a result of 8 centuries interaction between natural process and transhumance with all incorporating in it human activities on the use of natural pasture resources.

14.1.1 Describe and give the location of ecosystems and/or land cover types of the biosphere reserve.

On the territory of CBNP diverse natural ecosystems exist. In general they can be classified by their belonging to the dominant biomes of deciduous and coniferous forests, pastures, meadows and other grassy communities, cliffs and caves, rivers, wetlands and mountain lakes.

Forest ecosystemsForests cover about 61% of the entire territory of the park. 84.8% of them are deciduous. The main environment-forming species is common beech (Fagus sylvatica) whose monodominant communities are most prevalent in CBNP. Beech communities give the general appearance of forest vegetation in the park and have an important value for biodiversity conservation. Covering 42% of the park area (29 761 ha), beech forests with those in close proximity to the park occupy approximately 60 000 hectares and represent one of the largest and most compact, relatively unaffected by human activity arrays of this type across Europe. The average age of beech communities in the Park is 133 years. Pure beech communities cover 22 880 ha. Coniferous forests occupy a limited area, mainly in the higher western and eastern parts of the park. The most widespread communities are dominated by Norway spruce (Picea abies). The area occupied by Norway spruce forests is 1 825 ha. The average age of the forests in the belt is about 115 years, but rarely has 200 years old forests.The area of mixed forests is also relatively small.The park is the northernmost in the world and the only place for the Balkan Range where Balkan endemic Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce) grows naturally. The total area occupied by the communities of Macedonian pine is 338 hectares and the majority of them fall within the Tsarichina reserve.Most often within the beech forests typically take place mesophytic coniferous communities dominated by Silver Fir (Abies alba) with an area of 1 243 hectares.Less common are mesoxerophytic forests dominated by Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), which occur on a relatively small area (89 hectares) mainly in the higher parts of the park. Very rare are the natural xerophytic forests dominated by Austrian pine (Pinus nigra subsp. pallassiana), which are found on small areas mainly on the southern slopes of Balkan Range (about 82 hectares) on a dry and eroded areas. The mixed fir-spruce-beech forests occupy a comparatively large area of 2 212 hectares.

Shrubland ecosystem


Shrubland ecosystems are represented mainly in the high mountain treeless zone of the CBNP, and on limited area in the composition of beech and pine forests. On some places forest communities alternate with small secondary shrub communities, usually at the outskirts of the forest or along roads where the light access is better. These shrub communities are dominated by hazel (Corylus avellana), briar (Rosa canina), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and others.The alternating of shrublands and grasslands observed along the treeline, between 1500 and 1850 m a. s. l. to the mountain ridge. This ecosystem does not reach the highest peaks. Major dominant species of these communities are conifers and ericoid shrubs, such as Siberian juniper (Juniperus sibirica), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), Brutskenthaliya spiculifolia. More limited distributed are raspberry (Rubus idaeus), dwarf pine (Pinus mugo), bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi). Rare and highly vulnerable shrub communities are those, dominated by Alpine Rose (Rhododendron myrtifolium). Of particular interest is the dwarf pine locality which is the only natural habitat of the species for the Balkan Range.

Grassland ecosystemsThe grasslands are distributed mainly in the upper subalpine and alpine treeless areas in the park. Under the influence of intensive grazing in the past and the annual burning of bushes and trees on the ridge parts of the park have formed extensive and species-poor grassland communities dominated by mat grass (Nardus stricta), redtop (Agrostis capillaris), Deschampsiya flekosa and many other herbaceous species.In the area of forests are mainly distributed secondary grassland ecosystems with haying or grazing use regime. Due to the abandonment of these types of uses on some places succession can be observed. The process leads to the restoration of forests (mainly beech) and to rapid reduction and extinction of grasslands.

Rocky ecosystemThere are rocky ecosystems on the whole territory of park. The main rocks and rock formations are silicate. The limestone has more limited distribution. Rocky ecosystems are distributed not only in the treeless zone but also in the forests.On the rocks in the park there are many rare plants, including endemic and relict species, such Rhodope haberlea (Haberlea rhodopensis), edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum), Neychev’s fescue (Festuca balcanica ssp. Neicevii), Red Houseleek (Sempervivum erythreum), Centaurea kernerana, golden root (Rhodiola rosea) and many others. The numerous caves in the park are associated with rocky ecosystems.

Freshwater ecosystemsFreshwater ecosystems are represented mainly by mountain rivers and streams and very rarely by lakes, bogs and marshes that occupy small areas.Rivers and streams are mostly fast-flowing, with gravel and rocky bottom and are poor in vegetation. They are inhabited mainly of benthic fauna. Near mountain streams and rivers are formed diluted woody-shrub communities dominated by gray alder (Alnus incana), goat willow (Salix caprea), Lavendel-Weide (Salix elaeagnos). These communities have high participation of hygrophilic species from the group of tall grass, as Angelica pancicii, Balkan thistle (Cirsium appendiculatum), white butterbur (Petasites albus), lady's mantle (Alchemilla spp.), Yellow marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) and others.


14.1.2 Describe the state and trends of the ecosystems and/or land cover types described above and the natural and human drivers of the trends.

The size of the park as a whole provides the necessary prerequisites for the protection of the natural ecosystems and the processes running in them, for the implementation of its conservation functions as a second category of protected area according to Bulgarian legislation and IUCN’s classification.

The total area of the Reserves Zone is very appropriate for the preservation of the samples of natural ecosystems including characteristic and/or remarkable wild plant and animal species and their habitats. Within the 9 reserves lying on the park, landscape has the highest possible degree of naturalness due to the tens of years of full legal limitations of human interference.

The size of the Zone with Limited Human Impact has the purpose of minimizing anthropogenic influence on the reserves, the protection of territories with high environmental significance outside those reserves, as well as to serve as a bio-corridor between separate reserve territories with the purpose of forming a sufficiently large compact area keeping natural processes. After the restructuring of the zone during the MP updating, it has a bigger territorial range and is less fragmented which allows a better management of territories with high conservation value.

Over 80% of forests in the park have a high degree of naturalness by origin. The park keeps four types of natural habitats of the beech with high degree of naturalness located on 40% of the territory, and they are also part of the largest compact natural beech habitat in the world.

The park is a natural complex of six typical plant belts (all represented in Bulgaria) – samples of deciduous, mixed deciduous, mixed deciduous and coniferous, fragmented coniferous, sub-Alpine and fragmented Alpine vegetation. Central Balkan hosts the only one of its king in Bulgaria complex of centuries-old forests, abysses and walls, as well as the biggest rock belt (Dzhendemite).

Landscapes near the tourist huts have a high degree of vulnerability due to potential high recreational pressure (isolated cases), leading to a number of unfavourable events such as erosion from the expanded tourist flows. Another risk comes from the attempts of illegal additional construction or the planting of alien decorative species around the huts. The Directorate is making the necessary efforts to prevent such anthropogenic interference.

Forest ecosystems have a high degree of vulnerability from unfavourable natural factors – fires, abundant snowfalls, strong winds, etc. Speaking of shrub ecosystems, the ones dominated by Alpine rose (Rhododendron myrtifolium) are very vulnerable.

High vulnerability of excessive grazing and erosion is typical for habitats in grass ecosystems in woodless territories located around pens and ponds/paths used by domestic animals.

Freshwater ecosystems (springs, rivers, lakes, marshlands and peatlands) are vulnerable to a great extent in cases of impact leading to changes in the water regime and water pollution.

Some of the landscapes in the park have a high degree of rarity – the limestone rock landscapes in the raea of Kozyata Stena, Mazalat or the Kumanitsa Ridge. Same applies to many communities within the ecosystems such as permanent dystrophic lakes and puddles; alkaline springs; marshlands, peatlands and swamps; communities of Rhododendron myrtifolium, Dryas octopetala,


Pinus mugo; shrucb communities in the beds of snowdrifts; willow communities of Salix waldsteiniana and Salix silesiaca; communities of Alnus viridis; grass communities dominated by Festuca paniculata, Festuca valida; grass communities in the beds of snowdrifts, as well as grass communities forming mountain hay-making meadows.

The park has a high degree of typicality of mountain landscapes – descending cut and forested slopes of river valleys to the north and steep slopes with dominating rock landscapes to the south. Of high typicality are the centuries-old beech forests and especially those with cherry laurel, yew and Daphne blagayana Freyer. Beech forests of the type Asperulo-Fagetum 9130 and Luzulo-Fagetum 9110 are well presented in the park.

The park is an arena of natural processes which are not related to direct human activity and for that reason are difficult to foresee or prevent. Measures have been planned to mitigate their negative impact.

Climate changes affect mostly marshland and water ecosystems. Their development would lead to mesophytization and changes in the floristic composition, appearance of more draught resistant species which would inevitably lead to changes in the species range of fauna too.

The tendency of transforming grass ecosystem into shrub and forest ones is the result of succession processes leading to a climax forest, rarely shrub communities. The most visible succession process is related to the development of shrub communities. Available data shows that, when 60% of juniper cover is reached, the significant shrinking of areas suitable for other species of plants is related to a decrease in biodiversity as a whole. Succession changes are also leading to the restoration of forest vegetation at places where it was artificially removed for the needs of grazing. These changes are favourable for the park territory as they help the restoration of naturalness and typicality.

Because of the legal status of the park and the specific regimes and norms acting there, anthropogenic interference is limited to a minimum which cannot affect significantly the tendencies in ecosystems dynamics. Even the most significant use of natural resources in the park, the seasonal grazing, does not affect significantly the tendencies of restoration of shrub and forest ecosystems over grasslands, due to the active pressure norms.

Anti-fire measures and fight against anthropogenically-caused fires, the legal ban on economic use of timber, the norms and control over use of non-timber resources, the counteraction against any type of poaching and the lack of industrial pollutants are factors which do not allow the appearance of tendencies for unnatural, anthropogenically-caused changes in the park ecosystems but even create conditions for processes of restoration of the natural character of ecosystems and habitats within them.

Negative examples of impacts on ecosystem status that are nonetheless visible include erosion (caused by unregulated passing of motor cars); the crowding of grazing animals on certain spots; the uncontrolled grazing of some of these animals (mostly horses and cattle); the eutrophication of some of the surface waters caused again by domestic animals, etc.


14.1.3 What kind of protection regimes (including customary and traditional) exist for the core area(s) and the buffer zone(s)?

Protection regimes for the core and buffer zones of the proposed BRCB are of legal character. They are defined by the Protected Areas Act and the Biodiversity Act.

The core and buffer zones are part of Central Balkan National Park.

According to the Protected Areas Act, the designation and changes in protected areas are done only by the Minister of Environment and Waters. As per national legislation, the core zone (existing reserves of Boatin, Tsarichina, Steneto, Dzhendema, Severen Dzhendem, Kozya Stena, Stara Reka, Peeshti Skali and Sokolna) is a Ist category of protected area. As buffer zone is declared the rest part of the national park - outside the 9 reserves which territory corresponds to II nd category of IUCN.CBNP was designated by Order No. 843/31.10.1999 of the Minister of Environment and Waters and was re-categorized in National Park. According to the Protected Areas Act, parks of national importance (such as CBNP) are exclusive state property. The territory of the park has been declared an exclusive state property by SPA No. 1/16.01.1997.

According to the Protected Areas Act, no human activities are allowed in the core zone of the proposed biosphere park – the existing 9 reserves – with the exception of safeguarding, visits with scientific purposes, passing of visitors along marked trails incl. for educational purposes, collection of seed material, wild plants and animals for scientific purpose, and extinction of fires. Cutting or damaging trees is not allowed as well as the collection of plants or parts of them. It is also not allowed to pursue wild animals or disturb their natural life, to catch or kill them, to collect or damage their eggs, nests or dens, to let domestic animals graze there. Putting up fire, hunting and fishing are strictly forbidden.

Sanitary events in the forests in the event of natural disasters and calamities are approved by the Ministry of environment and water following a favorable opinion of the Bulgarian Academy of sciences. Visits for scientific purposes as well as activities related to the collection of seeds, wild plants and animals for scientific purposes or for their restoration in other places (in quantities, manner and time, excluding disturbance to ecosystems) are also agreed by the MoEW.

Within the buffer zone is allowed grazing, hay gathering, obtaining of fire wood remaining from restoration and maintenance activities in the forests, collection of medicinal plants and fruits, tourist activities. This means that in buffer zone of the proposed biosphere reserve are possible abovementioned uses under valid regulations in the national park. According to PAA and the Management plan of the national park the agriculture and hunting in the park is prohibited. Angling is prohibited by the Management plan.

On the basis of Art.12 (6), in relation to Art.6 (1) p.3 & 4 of the Biodiversity Act and p.1 of the Decision of the Council of Ministers No. 122/02.03.2007 (SG No. 21 of 2007), in 2008 Central Balkan was designated as a protected zone under the Birds Directive by Order No. РД-559/05.09.2008 of the Minister of Environment and Waters. Its designation under the Habitats Directive is expected soon.

14.1.4 Which indicators or data are used to assess the efficiency of the actions/strategy used?


Analysis and evaluation of the efficiency of management strategies of the protected area were done at the public hearing of the implementation of the first Management Plan of CBNP in the middle of its 10-years validity (according to PAA, Art.60 (3)); during the revision of the MP and during checks of the work of park administration done periodically, after a signal or accidentally by the MOEW and the Court of Auditors.

The analyses of management strategies made during the MP revision were focused on the following groups of indicators:

Management of natural components; Management of tourists, interpretation, training and education; Management of the acceptable use of natural resources; Partners and local communities; Functioning and activities of the park administration.

When conducting a check by external structures, the approach has been similar although they have been subject to different regulations and requirements. Sets of indicators were used that can generally be grouped into 5:

Planning and binding activities to the implementation of general and ecological legislation, as well as the goals and priorities of the mandate programme, short- and long-term strategies, programs and plans;

Implementation of assigned tasks – analysis of implementation; Legally-bound spending of resources provided for the activity of the corresponding

administrative unit within the MOEW system, when taking into account the conclusions and recommendations shown in the reports of the internal and external controlling bodies – Court of Auditors, Agency for State Financial Inspections, Internal Audit Directorate at MOEW, etc.;

Structuring of the administrative departments within the MOEW and the administrative capacity of MOEW officers, job descriptions, hiring of personnel, attestations, carrier development, training;

Definition of risks, planning and implementation of measures for prevention and early detection of the reasons leading to violations, as well as for counter-acting corruption and legal violations already in place.

14.2 At the level of species and ecosystem diversity:

14.2.1 Identify main groups of species or species of particular interest for the conservation objectives, especially those that are endemic to this biosphere reserve, and provide a brief description of the communities in which they occur.

Flora: CBNP is characterized by rich plant diversity. In the park and its reserves can be found 208 species of algae 235 species of moss, 337 species macromycetes, and almost 1700 species higher plants (41% of the BG higher flora).186 species from the park’s floristic wealth are of conservation value. 78 of those species are protected by the Biological Diversity Act and are included in its annexes, 58 species are listed into the Red Data Book of Bulgaria, 120 species are listed in the Red List of vascular plants in Bulgaria and 17 species are recognised by the Red List of IUCN. The endemic species of plants in the CBNP are 98. That includes 75 species which are Balkan endemics and 23 species which are endemic for Bulgaria. The list of the higher plants which are also relicts includes 101 species. Of these, 48 are


Tertiary relicts and the rest 53 species are glacial relicts. Thus the park ranks among the most important shelters (refuges) of arctic-alpine elements in the high mountains in southern Europe.The beech forest or its understory can be appropriate place for some of the species with high conservation significance as Prunus laurocerasus, Taxus baccata, Acer heldreichii, Angelica pancicii, Galanthus elwesii, Haberlea rhodopensis and others.Fauna: The diversity of invertebrates in CBNP was evaluated through 8 model groups.According to them 2366 species have been found or registered, which constitutes about 45% of the expected. Among those species there are 261 stenotopic species, 168 endemic, 108 relict species and 19 species which are globally threatened.211 vertebrate species have been recorded in the park from which 5 fish, 9 amphibians, 15 reptiles, more than 220 bird species (123 – nesting) and 60 mammal species. Among these, there are 21 globally endangered vertebrates and 44 European ones. Wildcat, red deer and brown bear are endangered in Europe. The populations of 8 species of mammals, among which the Snow vole, the Souslik, the Lesser mole-rat, the edible dormouse, and the Balkan chamois are of global conservation significance. Approximately 90 bird species breed in the reserves Boatin, Tsarichina, Steneto and Stara Reka.The beech forests in the park are of global conservation significance as a habitat of vertebrate fauna. These forests are the breeding grounds for 18 species which are globally endangered or globally significant (13 mammal, 4 bird and 1 amphibian species).

14.2.2 What are the pressures on key species? In other words: what are the threats (example unsustainable management of forest), their immediate causes (drivers of change like forest change or habitat change), their underlying causes (example overgrazing, fire, pollution), and the main driving forces (example: economic, political, social, external, etc.) and the area(s) concerned?

As per Art.18 (2), of PAA, one of the management goals of national parks is “proviasion of prerequisites for the development of tourism, environmentally-friendly livelihoods of population…” The analysis of allowed use on the territory of the national park leading to certain threats to biodiversity has shown that use was concentrated in the woodless zone of the national park.

Grazing. Along with the positive sides related to the protection/maintenance of biodiversity in grasslands, seasonal grazing has also some negative impacts:

As a result of the crowding of animals in the places for overnight stay and drinking of water, areas affected by erosion have expanded in recent years. This process and the accompanying over-grazing and other damages lead to the loss of valuable natural habitats and populations, forcible change of species composition, unnecessary succession changes, and others;

Traditionally, local people use for grazing of their animals one and same territories through the years. This leads to higher pressures on one and the same areas as compared to others. Active grazing in some areas leads to negative changes in the ecological and floristic structure of sub-Alpine grass communities, deterioration of habitats and species populations. As a result, over-grazing is observed together with erosion processes.

In the spots of crowding of domestic animals (where they stay during the night or drink water), there is real danger of nitrate pollution from the manure;

Some herds of animals are grazing without shepherds. This is especially true for horses within the park. Free grazing animals enter reserves and other territories where grazing is


forbidden. In past years, there have been cases when free grazing horses die in water sanitary zones which can cause serious problems for the water supply of settlements;The main reason for the growing interest towards pastures is the opening of the Pastoralism Measure (214) of the Operational Programme for Rural Development and the chances of farmers to receive subsidies.

Use of non-timber natural products (medicinal plants, wild fruits, mushrooms). Evaluation of this type of use has shown the following negative trends:

Application of improper technologies for the use of natural resources. Speaking of wild mushrooms, this includes the collection of all edible objects from a certain source. Another trend is the collection of wild fruits and herbs through unnecessary damaging of the parts of plants which are not actually used (e.g. uprooting species whose roots are not used or damaging vegetative parts of plants where blossoms or fruits are only used, etc.).

Organized gathering of blackberries is done by large groups of people from the south side of the park mostly. In many cases, plants are damaged in their sources as a result if the use of improper technologies for collection which requires for the application of approaches for joint management of natural resources that have already proven their efficiency;

Practice has shown that, in many cases, the regions of organized gathering of blackberries are being polluted by solid waste.Over-use of natural resources is motivated by both their demand on the market and the growing need of certain groups of population to find alternative means of livelihood.

Poaching in forests, in hunting and fishingIllegal tree cutting in the park is reported mostly on the periphery and at accessible places, locally; in most cases the volumes are small. The main purposes are commercial, for heating nd for construction. Despite the bans, in all the years after the park’s designation, illegal fishing and hunting have been registered on its territory. The specificity of this activity makes it hard to prove by documents or other facts but there are many indirect proofs (loops, traps, waiting points, remnants of shot animals, shells of armor, etc.). They often use motor vehicles and kill mostly big game for food, trade, trophies or pleasure.

FiresAnalysis of data on fires in the period 2001-2010 shows that 80% have a possible anthropogenic character. They were connected to either cleaning of pastures from shrubs (juniper, blackberries, etc.) with the purpose of maintaining high-mountainous pastures for grazing, or deviating the attention of controlling bodies. Fires are a major threatening factor for forest habitats and a serious cause of flat erosion.

Unregulated use of motor vehicles and unregulated extreme sportsThe park has a developed road network which gives potential opportunities for unregulated entering of motor vehicles from many spots. More and more often, we see automobiles inside, especially jeeps, often driving off-track. In addition, there is a growing number of other automobiles related to high-mountainous stock-breeding or tourism. The damages include erosion of soils; deterioration of the qualities of some natural habitats; destruction of plant and animal species; higher noise levels; disturbance of animals and visitors. Sports of growing popularity such as off-road driving (motor-cycles, ATV and jeeps) are a very serious threat to the park and its users as these are being practiced in an unregulated way, out of the road network.


14.2.3 What kind of measures and indicators are currently used, or planned to be used to assess both species groups and the pressures on them? Who undertakes this work, or will do so in the future?

As visible from the information given in 14.2.2, the most serious anthropogenic pressure is concentrated in the woodless zone of CBNP (buffer zone of BRCB) and is related to the development of high-mountainous stock-breeding in the last years. Each year, CBNPD is preparing an annual plan for grazing and hay-making, as is required by the PAA and the Rules for the Conditions and Order of Managing and Commissioning Activities for Maintenance and Restoration, Tourist Activities, Safeguarding and Control in Forests, Lands and Waters in Protected Areas – Exclusive State Property. The Plan defines: the sites and areas for grazing of domestic animals and hay-making; the types of animals allowed; the number/quantity of animals/hay; norms for pasture occupancy; the periods for grazing and hay-making; the ways and means for conducting these activities; the procedure for getting permits for that ; the conditions for protection and preservation of pastures. The pressure norms are included in the current Management Plan of CBNP.

Regardless of the procedure for distribution and use of pastures included in the Annual Plans for Grazing and Hay-Making in CBNP, stock-breeding causes pressure on certain areas as well as damages on certain natural habitats in the area of pastures. Grazing in CBNP takes over 15000 ha. Of these, grasslands take 14800 ha. Analysis done by officers of CBNPD shows 4000 ha of eroded terrains in the park of which 2500 ha of current erosion and 1500 ha of geological erosion. The loss of natural habitats equals 1% per year. Among the erosion-causing factors, most important are the unregulated entering of motor vehicles – 40%; atmospheric conditions – 10%; grazing of domestic animals – 50%.

Under the project: “Let Us Connect Nature Protection with the Sustainable Development of Rural Areas” (SDC), a report was made on “assessment of the impact of grazing related to agro-ecological sub-measure “Traditional Practices for Seasonal Grazing (Pastoralism)” on natural habitats on the territory of CBNP”. The general conclusions from the application of Measure 214 and its impact on natural habitats, reported under the project, include:

Sharp and continuous shrinking of the size and stable process of fragmentation of habitats F2.231 Mountain Juniperus nana scrub and F2.2132 Balkan Range dwarf [Vaccinium] wind heaths.

Gradual and stable increase of the size of grassland habitats of the type E4.3922 Balkan Festuca balcanica grasslands, E4.318 Oro-Moesian mat-grass swards, E1.72 Bent - fescue grassland and others.

Erosion, loss of habitats. In the past 5-6 years, the process of total loss of habitats and their replacement by erosion have gained threatening proportions. Almost everywhere in the studied areas, eroded terrains have expanded significantly together with terrains with no vegetation at all.

As a regional structure of the MOEW established with the purpose of managing CBNP, the Directorate is also the structure responsible for the implementation of the above strategic documents related to the Park (the core zone of BRCB).


Annually on the territory of CBNP employees of the park directorate conduct biodiversity monitoring – part of Annual plan for monitoring of environmental components. The main part of the plan is directed toward the collection and analysis of data related to the most important component of the national park – biological diversity. The collected data is processed by Executive Environment Agency – the experts make assessments of the collected data about observations of the objects themselves or signs of their activity.

For determination of the locations and quantities for collecting of the medicinal plants and wild berries phenological observations and resource evaluation are carried out.

In 2013 was completed a project “Mapping and identification of conservation status of natural habitats and types“ with funding provided by Operational Program “Environment 2007 – 2013”. The project was managed by the Ministry of environment and waters (MoEW). Scientists from most of the competent institutes under the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and also experts from nongovernmental organizations were involved. Within the project were identified the natural habitats and habitats of species according to the Habitat Directive of EU and was determined their conservation status. The project concerned also the territory of Central Balkan National Park.

In 2015 was completed a project “Field studies of distribution of species / assessment of the status of species and habitats throughout the whole country – I phase “ with funding provided by Operational Program “Environment 2007 – 2013”. The project was also managed by MoEW and was held on territories across the country, including Central Balkan. The aim of the project is investigation and assessment of the status of species and their habitats which are the subject of national monitoring system of biodiversity, including through gathering actual data on the distribution and abundance of species from the system and their habitats at national level.On the basis of the information collected from above mentioned sources appropriate management measures are taken.In the updated management plan of the park for the period 2016 – 2025, were provided a number of programs and projects related to the conservation and maintenance of biodiversity of habitats and species in the forests, treeless areas and wetlands.

14.2.4 What actions are currently undertaken to reduce these pressures?

Main priorities in the activity of CBNPD in summer months include the preventive and running control over anthropogenic influence of users of pastures and visitors to the Park, as well as anti-fire security.

The main groups the attention of CBNP officers is focused on are stock-breeders operating on the assigned pastures, collectors of blackberries, visitors to CBNP with motor vehicles and permanent groups of ill-mannered visitors – poachers and treasure-hunters.

Regarding stock-breeders, massive control is being exercised through constant checks about the application of their obligations and responsibilities as users of resources in CBNP.

As a result of measures taken for preventive and running control, the negative impacts of illegal horse grazing in the woodless parts of the park and uncontrolled grazing around the borders of reserves were substantially decreased. Grassland communities have been protected from over-


grazing and other damages, and sustainable use of grass communities in the woodless zone has been established with the purpose of protecting/maintaining/restoring their favourable status. The free movement of unattended animals in the woodless zone out of the assigned pastures was limited significantly. In recent years, special commissions were being formed by order of the Director of CBNP, which accomplished planned checks on pasture users in certain areas of the park. The commissions would then prepare a summarized protocol with the results from the check and specific proposals for consequent actions incl. administrative penalties where necessary. The results from these checks have shown that most frequent violations include unattended grazing (no shepherds present); violation of the norms for pressure on pastures and lack of identification numbers on the domestic animals.

The regimes for use of pastures in CBNP introduced by the new Management Plan eased significantly control activities over the entering of motor vehicles in the park. Special attention was paid to the problem of unregulated riding of motor cycles along tourist trails. During the active tourist season, joint actions were organized together with police officers for preventing the unregulated driving of motor vehicles in the protected area.

Within the project: DIR-5113325-12-109 “Central Balkan – a Park for All”, funded by the Environment 2007-2013 Operational Programme, CBNPD commissioned the elaboration of “Strategic Guidelines for Protection, Maintenance and Restoration of the Favoruable State of Natural Habitats and Species in 11 Model Territories within the Woodless Zone of CBNP”, 2015. The aim of the Strategy was to set sustainable management of pastures in the woodless zone on scientific grounds so that the protection and maintenance of biodiversity in the park is guaranteed.

The tasks for achieving the Strategy goals include: Selection of 11 model territories for grazing management in view of

protection/maintenance of biodiversity; Development of a methodology for grazing impact assessment on biodiversity; Development of norms for pasture loads; Definition and planning of actions for biodiversity conservation in pastures.

On the basis of several obligatory conditions, 11 model territories were selected within the pasture areas of CBNP. In some of them, designing of infrastructure was projected for high-mountainous stock-breeding. It is envisaged that, after certain alterations in active legislation, this infrastructure will be commissioned for long-term use to local stock-breeders.

Selection was also made of key habitats and species with the purpose of developing a methodology for grazing impact assessment. Group forms have been prepared for the application of the methodology. The expert team preparing the Strategy made a detailed review of existing pressure norms for pastures, the state of available stock-breeding infrastructure and the need of its improvement. A detailed analysis was done on existing norms for pasture ‘occupancy’ in the model territories and specific proposals were made for corrections in those norms with the purpose of optimization of pressure and protection/maintenance of favourable environmental status of key species/habitats. The strategy also contains precise recommendations for pasture maintenance such as hay-making and leaving the hay to dry on the spot, cleaning of unwanted vegetation, etc.

Other strategic documents prepared under the same project were “Strategic Guidelines for Development of Security and Control in CBNP” and “Management Plan for Use of Roads in


CBNP”. Both documents contain specific measures/activities aimed directly at solving some of the existing problems related to the use of resources, unregulated driving, etc.

A technical project was implemented for the restoration of natural habitats and anti-erosion strengthening in CBNP. The project focused on restoration measures (total area of 350 ha) in the following habitats: 62D0, 4060, 6230, 6150 and 6520.

In view of the registered pressure on some natural habitats/species in the woodless zone, CBNPD exercises stronger control on the application of regimes/norms/conditions by the users of natural resources in the park. Many of the measures and activities for minimizing the negative anthropogenic pressure set in the above strategic documents are already being implemented.

According to the organigramme of the Park Directorate the biggest department in the structure is Department for control and protection. Park rangers work in this department. Their main responsibilities are to prevent violations such as poaching, illegal logging, unlawful or excessive use of natural resources, violating the integrity of habitats, causing fires, illegal use of vehicles in the park and many others. In their actions they are guided by the provisions in the PAA, Management Plan of the park, the annual plans for monitoring and for the use of natural resources (for livestock grazing and collection of medicinal plants and wild berries) and by the opinion of the experts from the Park Directorate.Park administration makes the possible to prepare theoretically and practically park rangers and to provide necessary materials for their work. For this purpose, CBNPD uses funds from the annual plan of activities funded by SEMEPA and projects funded by the Operational Programme Environment to conduct periodic training of employees and to provide them with suitable work clothing and tools for monitoring and controlling and security services.

14.2.5 What actions do you intend to take to reduce these pressures?

Developed strategic documents foresee mainly complex/inter-related measures and activities. As visible from 14.2.4, part of the measures are already being applied and others are about to be implemented/commissioned by the institution responsible for CBNP management – its Directorate. The latter believes that the implementation of measures/activities/recommendations set in framework documents will lead to the solving of a significant part of existing problems related to seasonal grazing in the buffer zone of BRCB, as well as to the protection/maintenance/improvement of the favourbale environmental status of key species and habitats.

At the same time, CBNPD realizes that an information campaign about the value of biodiversity in CBNP, the existing regimes/norms and conditions, and the ways of sustainable use of natural resources would help significantly to minimize the registered problems/threats in relation to non-timber products’ use (medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms), poaching, unregulated driving of motor vehicles and unregulated extreme sports, etc.

Increasing the efficiency of controlling security services and the improvement of the annual plans for the use of natural resources.

14.3. At the level of genetic diversity:


14.3.1 Indicate species or varieties that are of importance (e.g. for conservation, medicine, food production, agrobiodiversity, cultural practices etc).

Medicinal plants and wild fruitsWithin the CBNP (core and buffer zones of BRCB), a total of 166 species of medicinal plants has been registered. They are over 70% of the species widely used in traditional and official medicine. The MP of CBNP contains lists of the species of medicinal plants which are allowed for collecting (incl. for personal use) and specific territories where this activity is permitted.

For the purposes of protection and sustainable use of medicinal plants’ resources, CBNPD commissioned the elaboration of a Management Project of Medicinal Plants and Wild Fruits which Can Be Collected for Commercial Purposes (as per the Law on Medicinal Plants, this project must be part of the MP of the protected territory). The project was approved by Order No. РД-482/16.07.2009 of the Minister of Environment and Waters. 53 sources with total area of 2 226.2 ha have been inventoried under the project, and 55 sample areas have been assigned for assessment of exploitation availability of 10 species as follows:

No.Taxon

Usable partEnglish name Latin name

Лечебни растения1 Blackberry Vaccinium myrtillus Fruits2 Lingonberry Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fruits3 Hawkweed Hieracium pilosella Stem4 Thyme Thymus sp. Stem5 Raspberry Rubus idaeus Fruits6 Perforate St John's-wort Hypericum perforatum Stem7 Spotted St. Johnswort Hypericum maculatuy StemДиворастящи плодове8 Common juniper Juniperus communis Fruits9 Siberian juniper Juniperus sibirica Fruits10 Briar Rosa sp. Diversa Fruits

The team developing part “Medicinal Plants” of the MP of CBNP has recommended that some of the medicinal plants allowed for gathering for personal use under the previous MP are excluded from the list for the next management period. Among those species are representatives of genera with unclear taxonomy similar to species of high conservation value, as well as species from the list of the Law on Medicinal Plants. In addition and in view of the high category of protection of CBNP, the regimes of CBNP MP for the period 2016-2025 do not allow the use of underground organs on the territory of the park – roots, rhizomes and bulbs - as their collection becomes a cause for the destruction of whole individuals, serious negative impact on the vitality of corresponding populations and deterioration of the soil layer.

For the period of the previous MP of CBNP (2001-2010), greatest interest was shown towards the gathering of blackberries.


Autochthonic breedsSome local autochthonic breeds are found grazing on the territory of the park, incl. varieties of sheep such as Dabenska, Koprivshtenska, Tetevenska, Karakachanska, as well as Bulgarian Grey Cattle and the Karakachan Horse. The buffer zone is, therefore, important for the preservation of those breeds in the area.

14.3.2 What ecological, economic or social pressures or changes may threaten these species or varieties?

Non-timber natural products are the resources of highest social importance for the population of several settlements where people are greatly dependent on their collection and sales, e.g. some of the villages in Karlovo Municipality. Each year, when the resources are abundant (mostly of blackberries), big numbers of people concentrate on the territory of CBNP and that leads to some negative effects.

Over-use of non-timber resources. On the territory of the park, they allow the gathering of herbs, wild fruits and mushrooms for commercial purposes and for personal use. The gathering process is accompanied by the crowding of lot of people on one spot, lighting of fires, producing of big quantities of waste and damaging surrounding areas. The over-use of non-timber resources is motivated by both their market demand and the growing need of certain groups of local population to find alternative means of livelihood. Due to lack of mechanisms, in most cases there is no efficient control on the real quantities of products collected. For that purpose, what is needed is a closer coordination between CBNPD and the collection points in the settlements around the park.

Application of improper technologies for the use of no-timber resources. This continues to be of significant importance. Speaking of wild mushrooms, this includes the collection of all edible objects from a certain source. A widely used practice is to destroy mushrooms that users cannot recognize. Another trend is the collection of wild fruits and herbs through unnecessary damaging of the parts of plants which are not actually used (e.g. uprooting species whose roots are not used or damaging vegetative parts of plants where blossoms or fruits are only used, etc.

Data for the collection of natural resources – medicinal plants, mushrooms, snails, spices, etc. come mostly from the representative sociological research (1997-1998) among population of the municipalities lying at 25 to 30 km around the park. The assessment showed 69000 people (53% of population around the park) who were using directly the natural resources of Stara Planina.

Many of the natural resources are used by people from settlements farther than 25-30 km from the park. It can be assumed quite surely that local population gathers resources from the areas directly adjacent to the park and partially from the park, totaling 187 tons of forest fruits, 218 tons of medicinal plants, 77 tons of spices, 229 tons of snails and 924 tons of mushrooms per year. Numbers are average.

People who collect forest fruits for commercial purposes are mostly from the settlements that have selling points. The number of those who gather natural products for sale cannot be defined exactly but, within acceptable statistical extrapolation, it can be estimated to 10000 people of all the 130000 inhabitants.

About 53% of the people living around CBNP state that they use products from wild nature. This target group can be divided into two sub-groups – one “behaving like users/collectors of resources


for personal use” and the other “behaving like users/collectors of resources for commercial purposes”.The situation described above in relation to the use of non-timber resources and consequent problems has forced CBNPD to mobilize financial and human resources in fairly short periods each year (no more than two months) for the management of the process of sustainable use o fnatural resources.

14.3.3 What indicators, at the level of the species, are used, or will be used, to assess the evolution of population status and associated use?

Each year based on active legislation, the CBNPD developed an Annual Plan for the use of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms (also in line with the lists in the MP of the park). The purpose of this Annual Plan is to regulate and administer the use of medicinal plants and wild fruits on the territory of CBNP, by not allowing damages on natural habitats and species and at the same time providing environmentally-friendly means of livelihood for local population. The Plan defines: the sites and areas for gathering; the type of natural resources and their parts that can be collected; the quantities permitted for collection; the period, ways and means of collection; the procedure for issuing of permits for commercial activity. As per active legislation, the Plan has taken into account the necessary phenological observations and express resource assessments of corresponding species.

14.3.4 What measures will be used to conserve genetic diversity and practices associated with their conservation?

Stepping on Art. 2 (2) of the Protected Areas Act (Nature conservation in protected areas has a priority over any other activities there) and the management objectives of national parks set in Art. 18 (2)1 of PAA, the CBNPD has focused its efforts on the protection of natural resources that are subject to gathering and their sustainable use. The CBNP MP for 2016-2025 has several projects directly related to the protection of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms and their environmentally-friendly use, as follows:

project 4.2.4.2.5. Updating of the Management Project for Medicinal Plants and Wild Fruits Allowed for Gathering with Commercial Purposes. It includes the inventory, mapping and studying of biological and exploitation resources of medicinal plants, forest fruits and mushrooms for commercial use by updating the information from the previous project.

project 4.2.5.2.6. Monitoring of the Status of Populations and Assessment of Resources of Medicinal Plants and Forest Fruits. The project focuses on the mostly used medicinal plants and forest fruits for commercial purposes. The resource capacity of the species will be assessed on model permanent observation sites. Some park officers will be trained for the purpose of this specific monitoring.

project 4.2.9.2.8. Training of Relevant Collectors from the Zone around the Park in Sustainable Use of Resources. The goal of the project is to update and apply a model for joint management of the natural resources in the park. This concept is based on the sharing of benefits but also of responsibilities and investments. The project will involve representatives of local population who traditionally collect wild fruits (blackberries) and medicinal plants win the park, as well as representatives of the sale points around the territory. CBNPD together with the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecological Studies will develop modules for training of these people in the principles of sustainable use of park resources. A pilot project will be developed where efforts will 1


be put to expand entrepreneurship initiatives from simple gathering of resources to their processing (added value) which could open new jobs on the local level.

project 4.2.11.2.2. Supply, installation and equipment of control cabins, mobile observation and security points and mobile barrier complexes. CBNPD will commission the supply, installation and equipment of mobile observation and security points (caravan type) meant to perform long-term security and control tasks incl. campaigns for use of biological resources (blackberries, medicinal plants, wild fruits and others); safeguarding of sources of conservationally important plant species (edelweiss, great yellow gentian, etc.). these mobile points in combination with mobile barrier complexes will form temporary crossing points for efficient control over unregulated driving of motor vehicles in the park and campaigns for use of non-timber products.

15. DEVELOPMENT FUNCTION:

15.1. Potential for fostering economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable:

15.1.1 Describe how and why the area has potential to serve as a site of excellence/model region for promoting sustainable development.

CBNP (the core and buffer zones of the biosphere reserve) is a point of attraction for tourist visits. The natural and cultural heritage, favourable location and good transport connections with the capital and other large cities are a solid basis for the sustainable development of the area.

BRCB presents the following opportunities for sustainable development:

Sustainable tourism :

Walking tourism is encouraged in the buffer zone of BRCB – over 580 km of tourist trails have been marked and are being maintained. Specialized trails have been developed for horse riding, cycling, bird-watching (plant- and animal-watching); special sites have been designated for extreme sports. Organized rest places, picnic places and viewpoints create opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Expositions at the Vezhen Visitor Center and the accommodation establishments; the information boards along eco-trails, interpretative routes and outdoor classrooms provide information about the significance of biodiversity in CBNP and help the visitor to feel and understand better and in a natural and exciting way its vital role, calmness and wisdom.

The area of BRCB has good location/ favourable geographic position, easy access from various parts of the country and abundance of natural, cultural and historical assets. There are huge opportunities for the development of regional products including eco-tourism, cultural tourism, rural tourism, spa, etc. In recent years, there is a growing demand for horse riding, mountain biking, watching of wild plants and animals, photo-shooting. In that relation, it is necessary to build the appropriate visitor infrastructure that supports the development of the various forms of tourism.

Traditional craftsMany of the settlements in the area have been renowned crafts centers in the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, and even today. Traditions have been preserved and continue to be developed by


the successors of the old masters. The region of Troyan is famous for its pottery while Kalofer is known for the crafty lace. The towns and villages of the municipalities of Karlovo, Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya and Anton still offer the chance to observe the work of masters of traditional crafts such as wood-carving, icon-painting, leather-processing, weaving, making of weapons (both knives and rifles), pottery, copper-smithing. The schools of applied arts in Troyan and Kazanlak are a valuable resource for the keeping of traditions in that sphere.

Traditional products and agricultural practices . The villages of the region have preserved traditional home productions of cheese, milk, rakia (Bulgarian brandy), wine, jams and other conserved food. Traditional agricultural practices in a large part of the region have not been modernized yet and the use of chemical substances or fertilizers is still quite limited. Many private farms are practicing organic and environmentally-friendly agriculture as it was once done. Even today, people in Kalofer, Troyan and other settlements are using the services of water-mills, fulling-mills and other old installations powered by water. Furthermore, the Karlovo and Kazanlak Valleys are traditionally the home of rose- and lavender-growing. Several rose-processing houses are working in the southern part of the region and they have a big potential as tourist attractions. In addition the Rose Festival in Kazanlak attracts many toursists from all around the world each year.

Historical and archaeological sites , architectural landmarks. The mountainous character of the region has contributed to the preservation of many churches and monasteries which keep valuable murals and icons. The monasteries founded hundreds of years ago are part of the national cultural heritage and national memory for they keep the history and events from the region’s past. The Troyan Monastery and the nearby Zelenikovski Monastery (residence of the Bulgarian patriarch); the Batoshevski Monastery near the town of Sevlievo (from the northern side of the mountain); the Maid and Male Monasteries near Kalofer and others characterize the region as the Balkan Holy Mountain and attract believers and lovers of Orthodox Christian culture and history. What we should add to the above list of historical and archaeological sites are the available samples of intangible historical heritage.

For hundreds of years, a considerable number of domestic animals used the ridge of Central Stara Planina for grazing. High-mountain pastures were used in summer months by numerous herds of mostly sheep. Later on, interest towards grazing decreased. After Bulgaria’s accession to the EU, there has been a revival of this interest based on the opportunities to access funds from the Rural Development Programme.

Traditionally, the territory of CBNP has also been used for the gathering of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms. People and communities in the area are using the benefits of living close to a protected area and use those natural products as a source of income. This population is a strategically important keeper of the park’s resources.

All municipalities involved have their own Municipal Development Plans which define their development goals in accordance with local conditions and resources.

15.1.2 How do you assess changes and successes (which objectives and by which indicator)?


The information quoted in 15.1.1 shows that BRCB has all prerequisites to become a model region for sustainable development and in this regard, it has big potential for future development.

Opportunities must be sought in the development of nature-friendly tourism in BRCB. What has already been done in the core and buffer zones (CBNP) and represents is a good basis for further development of BRCB. What is needed is further development/improvement of existing infrastructure for tourism outside the protected area. Taking into account the region’s potential, it is necessary to develop and offer complex tourist packages including various forms of tourism – natural, cultural, historical, spa, etc.

The conditions for environmentally-friendly livelihoods (stock-breeding, gathering of natural products) in BRCB are another opportunity for turning the area of the BP into a model region for sustainable development.

As for assessing the changes and successes, it should be noted that in the strategic documents of the municipalities there are various indicators which have been set to measure the changes in the development. The same applies for the core and buffer zones, where changes will be measured by the indicators set in the Management plan of CBNP.

15.2. If tourism is a major activity:

15.2.1 Describe the type(s) of tourism and the touristic facilities available. Summarize the main touristic attractions in the proposed biosphere reserve and their location(s).

Hiking has always been quite popular in the park area. Some 20 mountain chalets, are more or less regularly spaced along the ridge. A dense network of over 570 km marked trails is maintained.During the last few years, in some areas close to towns or villages, the park has developed several eco-trails offering the possibility for visitors and local people to discover and enjoy wild nature. Some of the activities offered are particularly popular with school children and teenagers. In addition, mountain biking and running are also popular activities within the park.

In relation to one of the secondary goals of CBNP, the new Management Plan for the period 2016-2025 has defined a special Zone for Nature-Friendly Tourism. Its primary function is to serve tourism and visitor management. In accordance with Bulgaria’s traditions and the main goals of the Park, what is encouraged is mostly trekking which gives the visitor an opportunity for quality recreation, spiritual enrichment and inspiration in a way that is friendly to wild nature. The zone provides opportunities for visitors to pass through the Park along the ridge, using a primary walking route of the European system, connecting the Black Sea with the rest of Europe (International E3 Route: Kom – Emine). The zone includes paths where tourist trails pass; camping sites assigned for overnights in nature by one’s own equipment; sites of the cultural and historical heritage; rest places with spots for putting up fire (pavilions, tables, benches, fountains, etc.); specialized sites and trails for interpretation and educational activities; sites and trails for alternative tourism and sports; sites for cultural and other events; primary and secondary entrances to the park.

The territory of CBNP hosts 28 accommodation establishments: 22 huts and 6 shelters. Huts are managed by tourist associations – members of the Bulgarian Tourism Union; some are rented to private persons or have other forms of management. The main tourist service offered in huts is accommodation.


Furtheremore, the Park Directorate has commissioned the provision of tourist services and use of developed tourist infrastructure at Byala Reka Camp to an external contractor. The contract includes: information services; renting of tourist equipment; sale of souvenirs; dissemination and preparation of specialized advertisement materials; provision of additional tourism services.

The location of BRCB, its rich biodiversity, cultural and historical heritage are conditions for the development of tourism and recreation in both CBNP and its adjacent territories. Distances between settlements and the boundaries of the Park are short enough to allow short (and even longer) stays in the protected territory. Accommodation establishments are concentrated in the resort villages of Ribaritsa, Shipkovo, Chiflik, Oreshak, Apriltsi, Pavel Banya, Hissarya, Koprivshtitsa and Banya. In some towns and villages, as a result of the active policy of CBNPD for partnerships in the field tourism, a significant number of accommodation and catering establishments were opened in the past 10 years, such as Troyan and its vicinity (villages of Beli and Cherni Osam and Chiflik), Beklemeto locality, Kalofer Town, some villages near Gabrovo, villages of Tazha and Turia (Pavel Banya Municipality). These places boast a very well developing system of family guesthouses and hotels, most of which offer catering too. This model is very well developed in the town of Kalofer on the southern side of the Park and is attracting more and more followers. Local tourism business is mostly micro and small according to standards in the country. Accommodation is offered in family houses, villas, private rooms and family hotels with capacity of 4 to 30 beds, as well as bigger hotels in the towns and resorts of the area. Most establishments have been categorized by 1 to 3 stars as per the Regulation for Categorization of Tourist Sites (Tourism Act). Recent years have seen a diversification of tourism supply by additional services such as organized tours and walks in the mountain with the help of professional guides. In the transition zones there are many other tourist sites, such as the Vasil Levski National museum and Old Karlovo architectural complex, Hristo Botev National Museum in Kalofer and Hiking trail “Kliment”. However the region of Karlovo is most popular by its Valley of Roses and the production of rose oil, which is considered to be the best quality rose oil in the world. Along with the rose and lavender fields, the natural springs in Pavel banya offer great possibilities for tourism and SPA vacations in the mountaneus area of the municipality. Troyan municipality also has possibilities for SPA tourism in the above mentioned villages of Chiflik, Shipkovo and others. Furtheremore, the region of Troyan is famous for its pottery while Kalofer is known for the crafty lace. The towns and villages of the municipalities of Karlovo, Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya and Anton still offer the chance to observe the work of masters of traditional crafts such as wood-carving, icon-painting, leather-processing, weaving, making of weapons (both knives and rifles), pottery, copper-smithing. The schools of applied arts in Troyan and Kazanlak are a valuable resource for the keeping of traditions in that sphere. The Troyan monastery is also one of the most popular monasteries in Bulgaria and attracts many tourists.

All in all, the territory of BRCB is well known for its great natural beauty, cultural and historical heritage is attracting many tourists both from Bulgaria and around the world.

15.2.2 How many visitors come to the proposed biosphere reserve each year? (Distinguish between single-day visitors and overnight guests, visitors only visiting the proposed biosphere reserve or only passing on the way to another place). Is there an upward or downward trend, or a particular target?


CBNPD is performing annual monitoring of the tourist flows at 11 points within the territory. Here we have presented information from the monitoring done in 2015.

During the monitoring period, a total number of 11359 people have passed through the 11 points. This number presents a representative sample for the period of one week in the four months when data has been collected. Data from 2014 show 9107 visitors for the same period. This is a very serious grown, by almost 25%. It may be due to the fact that 2014 was extremely humid and unpleasant for mountain tourism which resulted in lower numbers of visitors.

We can conclude after correct reporting of the data that the Park was visited by over 45000 people in the four most popular months in 2015. Having in mind that 2/3 to 3/4 of all visits in Central Balkan are done exactly between July and October, we may estimate that the total number of visitors to the Park in 2015 was 60 to 70 thousands of people which is within the usual figures for CBNP. Naturally, most visits were accomplished in the month of summer vacations – August. Within the monitoring week in the 11 points, their number was 3263.

It is visible from the analysis of monitoring data that Byala Reka Eco Trail is one of the most popular destinations in the Park. Its proximity to Plovdiv, Karlovo and Kalofer, the easy access to its location, the quality of infrastructure renovated in 2012 and the additionak services offered at Byala Reka Camp are all reasons for the large number of visitors at that point compared to others.

Analyzing data from the other 10 points, it is obvious that the areas of larger towns such as Karlovo or of popular tourist places such as Kalofer attract more visitors to the points at the periphery of the Park where there is easier access and specific visitor infrastructure (eco-trails ad centers, huts). For example, according to data provided by the municipality of Karlovo, there were 60 000 overnights and 105 000 visitors last year.

15.2.3 How are tourism activities currently managed?

Tourist activities in the core and buffer zones of the BP are managed through the zoning of CBNP and especially the definition of a Zone for Nature-Friendly Tourism. In the MP of the Park for 2016-2025, the Regimes section contains the types of tourism that may be developed, the periods and sites for these activities, as well as precise regimes, norms and conditions.

By building specific visitor infrastructure, CBNPD is ‘directing’ the tourist flows to certain areas with potential for tourism development and not incompliant with the primary goals of CBNP for nature protection.

For the safe and informed stay of visitors in the Park, CBNPD has implemented a number of projects funded by the Environment 2007-2013 Operational Programme and related to the improvement of tourist infrastructure in the protected area. These have included the restoration of bridges, renovation of info boards at the primary and secondary entrances to the Park, placing of marking pyramids with iron poles (winter marking), replacement of steel and wooden railings, etc. Conditions for a safe and informed visit to the Park have been improved through the Internet-based tourist map with GPS coordinates.

As for the tourist activities in the transition zone, they are being managed by the respective municipality according to their Toursim Strategy.


15.2.4 Indicate possible positive and/or negative impacts of tourism at present or foreseen and how they will be assessed (linked to section 14)?

Apart from the monitoring of tourist flows, CBNPD is also carrying an annual monitoring of their impact on the environment and biodiversity. The aim of the two types of monitoring is to give a view of the volume of tourist flow in the different parts of CBNP, the intensity of use of tourist infrastructure, the impact of tourists on the quality of the environment and the state of natural habitats/species and park infrastructure. Acquired data is of special importance for the planning of measures for the management of tourist flows and pressures in the protected territory with the purpose of minimizing the anthropogenic influence on ecosystems.

The monitoring of tourist flows’ impact on the environment and biodiversity has the task to show the extent to which visitors affect the natural characteristics and functionality of the ecosystems in CBNP. The legally allowed free access to a large part of the Park’s territory is a prerequisite for negative anthropogenic impacts on natural processes. The mechanism for regulation in such cases is the efficient and effective management of the visitor flows in a way minimizing their impact on the natural habitats and species. That is the purpose of constructing specialized infrastructure, setting trails for the visitors and presenting adequate information for a safe (for both people and nature) visit to a protected area. At the same time, the monitoring of changes in the physical characteristics of the trails can be talkative of the relevance of taken management measures and/or the need of new ones.

The analysis of 2015 results shows that there isn’t any site that needs urgent management measures or interference for its preservation and restoration.

The results of both types of monitoring at present do not show need of urgent measures for preventing of damages or restoring sites in the Park. The same applies for the transition zone which has not done serious monitoring of of the negative impacts from tourism, but according to their strategic documents those are not significant.

15.2.5 How will these impacts be managed, and by whom?

Information given in the previous points makes it clear that the structure responsible for the management of tourist activities in the core and buffer zones of BRCB is CBNPD.

For the management of tourist flows in the protected area, CBNPD is building/restoring visitor infrastructure which directs tourists towards certain parts of the Park. In addition, information boards have been places which present CBNP and the existing regimes/rules and norms.

The monitoring of tourist flows and of their impact on the environment and biodiversity done by CBNPD provide valuable information about the status of the protected area. Collected and analyzed information is a solid basis for the undertaking of adequate management measures in cases of reported negative impacts of the tourist flow. As for the transition zone, the responsibility is within the municipalities.

15.3. Agricultural (including grazing) and other activities (including traditional and customary):


15.3.1 Describe the type of agricultural (including grazing) and other activities, area concerned and people involved (including men and women).

In strict nature reserves (1st category protected territory according to Bulgarian legislation and IUCN classification) in the park only scientific research, education and passing through the reserve only on marked trails are allowed. There is no agriculture in them. Since the reserve zone is strictly protected the development function is not provided in its territory.The development function is partially fulfilled in the rest part of the national park outside the reserves.The management plan of the park provides zoning of the territory according to its conservation value and determines specific regimes for use and utilization for each zone (see 7.4.).The Multifunctional zone of the national park allows grazing, hay gathering, obtain of fire wood within the restoration and maintenance activities in the forests, collection of medicinal plants and fruits for personal and commercial use, tourist activities.

Sheep and cattle grazing

There is no permanent settlement within the Park but a few shelters and huts are used during the summer by the shepherds. Summer grazing in the high mountain meadows has been a traditional activity which constituted one of the most significant life support for the populations on both side of the mountains. A dramatic drop of domestic animal numbers, and in consequence of summer grazing, occurred in the early 90's, following the political changes and the land restitution to private owners outside the park. Lack of grazing has been clearly identified as a major threat for biodiversity, many pasture areas being colonized by junipers and other low shrubs (heath, Vaccinium spp.) and returning eventually to forests if no appropriate measure is taken. Sheep grazing is still dominant, though cattle grazing is getting more and more common.

The grazing of livestock in the high part of Central Balkan National Park is a traditional activity, practiced for millennia. The mountain stock-breeding used to be a traditional means of living for part of the local population. On the other hand, the grazing is one of the essential factors for the formation of the specific high mountain habitats of: endemic, rare, threatened and relict species, subject to protection in the National park and in the European ecological network – Natura 2000. The high mountain part of the park is currently an important species formation center.

Over the last 30 years the number of grazing animals was significantly reduced. The insufficient grazing brings to changes in the vegetation cover in some parts of Central Balkan National Park which in some cases can cause the loss of certain species.

The PAA prohibits the grazing in the forests of the national parks and the grazing of goats in the national parks, given their negative impact on the forest plantations. Outside the forest areas and particularly in the grasslands, grazing could be provided only by following specific norms and regimes, determined by the management plans.

According to the management plan of Central Balkan National Park, the grazing is permitted in the meadows and the pastures within the “Multifunctional zone”.

It should be noted that the management plan of Central Balkan National Park not only allows the grazing, defining specific norms and regimes for its implementation, but also recognizes the grazing as a need in order to preserve and maintain the biodiversity in the high treeless zone of the park.


Central Balkan National Park Directorate prepares annual plans for grazing, which define the locations where grazing could be provided according to the zoning of the park and the standards set by the Management Plan.

Within the preparation of the abovementioned grazing plans, is being assessed the conservation state of the particular territories and on the basis of this assessment is determined the appropriate number of the grazing animals.

There is a certain increase of the applications for grazing, submitted to the Park Administration in the recent years, as well as in the number of the issued permits and grazed animals.

This interest is due to some on-going programs, run by the Ministry of agriculture and food supply, aimed at supporting of farmers, practicing traditional farming and recovering of the local traditional practices. EU funding is used to support farmers bringing domestic animals in the upland pastures in summer. The result is an increase in requests for summer grazing permits in the Park.

Currently, the grazing in the high pastures of Central Balkan National Park do not poses a threat.

The creation of a sheep and cattle breeders association in the Municipality of Karlovo and also on national level is a very promising experience that must be encouraged and should be also implemented in the other municipalities.

Hay is another agricultural activity that is permitted in the park and subject to certain conditions and restrictions. In last 10 years there is no interest in haying in the park.

15.3.2 Indicate the possible positive and/or negative impacts of these activities on biosphere reserve objectives (section 14).

Grazing of domestic animals in the Park is most of all an instrument for the maintaining of favourable environmental status of natural and semi-natural grass habitats from the European NATURA 2000 Network and preserving biodiversity within them. In that sense, the activity is important for the achievement of conservation goals of the proposed BR (see 13.1). It has also a serious contribution to the objectives for creating a nature-friendly livelihood for local population and preserving the culture and traditions of local communities. Thanks to targeted funding secured by the Rural Development Programme, a strong interest is being demonstrated towards the preservation of local breeds of small and large grazing animals and horses, as well as towards grazing stock-breeding as a whole.

There are also some negative impacts, mostly due to the over-pressure in some parts of the pasture areas in the Park (details are given in 14.2.2).

15.3.3 Which indicators are, or will be used to assess the state and its trends?

Since 2015, a methodology for monitoring of the state of pastures in the Park has been applied. The methodology reports the general status of pastures by a number of parameters concerning species composition, projected coverage of grass, coverage of shrub communities, biomass of grasslands in the pasture and its nutritive value to domestic animals, erosion, damages of spring-side micro-habitats, specifics of pasture infrastructure (shelters, sources of drinking water). This monitoring is still not carried out in all pastures and all types of grassland habitats due to objective limitations mostly connected to the insufficient number of experts in the specialized Park administration.


15.3.4 What actions are currently undertaken, and which measures will be applied to strengthen positive impacts or reduce negative impacts on the biosphere reserve objectives?

Under the project: “Central Balkan – Park for All” funded by the Environment 2007-2013 Operational Programme, projecting was done for 11 model pasture territories in 2014 and 2015. It included the studying of the proper use of these pastures and the planning of the necessary infrastructure for their optimal functioning (sources of drinking water and shelters for the shepherds). Such a projecting would help the proper planning of pasture’s utilization in view of the specific characteristics of the grass communities and decrease the negative impact of the different attractiveness of the sites which leads to uneven distribution of the animals and uneven pressure on habitats. As a follow up of this activity and in line with the recommendations of the Strategic Plan for Management of High-Mountainous Pastures in CBNP developed in 2014 and 2015, a project was implemented in 2016 for the preparation of technical design for a shepherd’s shelter.

All these activities are a prerequisite, given a change occurs in legislation allowing the renting of pastures for periods longer than 1 year, to achieve an agreement between users and park administration for long-term management which will include the measures developed by the Park.

The measures taken for the better management of pastures use and the more effective control over use are described in 14.2.3.

15.4 Other types of activities positively or negatively contributing to local sustainable development, including impact/influence of the biosphere reserve outside its boundaries.

15.4.1 Describe the type of activities, area concerned and people involved (including men and women).

The gathering of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms, as well as the use of timber within the maintenance and restoration activities in the Park are described in 9.3. these activities have their impact on local sustainable development. In view of the character of the protected area and the degree of its protection, the significance of timber acquired from the Park is constantly diminishing, being limited at the moment to supply of wood for heating of huts and sites of the Mountain Rescue Service.

A growing contribution to the sustainable development of local communities have the different forms of tourism. Traditionally CBNPD has developed opportunities and stimulated trekking in the mountain. The developed network of marked tourist trails reaches a total length of 570 km. In time, there is a growing interest even on behalf of tourists who are not traditionally keen on long treks in the mountain. They usually stay in the family establishments around the Park and visit the eco-trails, centers and interpretative complexes developed in the periphery. Thus they are able to experience wild nature, enjoy the hospitality of local people and their traditions without having to undertake heavy walks. Their concentration in the surrounding settlements has stimulated the initial development of additional tourism services such as ethnographic and folklore programs; introduction to local historical, cultural and religious sites; practicing of extreme sports, culinary and wine tours, horse riding and others. This is still a not very well developed supply.


Accommodation infrastructure is developing faster but there are still settlements, especially close to the southwestern border of the Park, that do not offer any such services.

There is no precise statistics about the share of men and women involved in the above activities. Usually these businesses are family-run and the whole family is participating in the caring for domestic animals or the maintenance of the guesthouse.

15.4.2 Indicate the possible positive and/or negative impacts of these activities on biosphere reserve objectives (section 14). Have some results already been achieved?

The positive effect of wise collection of non-timber forest products lies in the provision of additional income for local communities, including the poorest among them.

The development of the tourist product also contributes to the raising of local income and the economic welfare of the area. On the other hand, good services are a prerequisite for good impressions and good attitudes towards the Park in both Bulgarian and foreign visitors.

Negative impacts on the park caused by the gathering of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms are described in 14.2.2.

Negative impacts from the development of tourist services in the area of Park are related to over-pressure, even though in short times of the year, on the most popular zones for one-day visits on the periphery of the Park (see 15.2.2) and the attempts to offer additional tourism services incompatible with the statute of the Park or separate parts of its territory (such as entering roads of controlled access by motor vehicles, off-roading, guiding out of the marked trails in reserve territories, horse riding or mountain biking out of the assigned tracks).

15.4.3 What indicators are, or will be used to assess the state and its trends?

Indicators have not yet been developed to montor those trends.

15.4.4 What actions are currently undertaken, and which measures will be applied to strengthen positive impacts or reducing negative ones on the biosphere reserve objectives?

See 15.4.2.

15.5 Benefits of economic activities to local people:

15.5.1 For the activities described above, what income or benefits do local communities ( including men and women) derive directly from the site proposed as a biosphere reserve and how?

See 15.4.2.

15.5.2 What indicators are used to measure such income or other benefits?

No indicators have been develop to measure this income and other benefits.


15.6 Spiritual and cultural values and customary practices: (Provide an overview of values and practices, including cultural diversity).

The territory of the proposed biosphere reserve is especially attractive with the unique combination of natural assets and cultural and historical heritage. The municipalities in the transition zones have exceptional cultural and historical resource integrated in a unique natural environmentOn the territory of the biosphere reserve, traditional cultural practices are related to various crafts, customs and rituals; they are kept and developed in different ways: celebrations, festivals, cultural institutions and others.

For the protection of local cultural heritage in the region, the following cultural institutions have specific roles: the Museum of Crafts in Troyan; the National Fair at Oreshak; the Natural Science Museum in Cherni Osam; Seryakova Kashta Gallery in Troyan and 20 Chitalishta (Community Centers).

The following events are organized annually and are typical for the region:

Date Event

March/April

Re-enacting the ritual of Sirni Zagovezni

May Oreshak Festival of Crafts and Arts (with international participants)

June Day of the Potter

June Rock-academy of Troyan and competition for original song

June Holiday of Herbs, Mountain and Tourism

July Holiday of the Mineral Water and the Shipkovski Mineralni Bani Resort

August Traditional Crafts Festival

August Beklemeto National Pensioners’ Singing Festival and North-South National Bee-Keepers’ Meeting

September Bulgarian Festival of the Plum

October 14 Day of Troyan

Many Bulgarian customs and rituals related to the everyday life of local people have preserved their identity since ancient times and up to the present in the settlements from the area. The keepers of Bulgarian traditions and Bulgarian spirit are the cultural community centers in the towns and villages, the Chitalishta.


The region of the proposed biosphere reserve boasts a thousand of years old cultural and historical heritage. The lucky combination of mountain and valley, mild climate, fertile soils are among the reasons why the region has been inhabited since ancient times.

15.6.1 Describe any cultural and spiritual values and customary practices including languages, rituals, and traditional livelihoods. Are any of these endangered or declining?

The preservation and promotion of cultural and spiritual values is done through the celebrations of customs and rituals of the Bulgarian Orthodox Calendar, including their presentation at local, regional, national and international festivals and competitions. The most typical Bulgarian customs in the area are:

Bogoyavlenie – male ‘icy’ horo in the town of Kalofer (men enter the icy river and dance there, beginning of January)

Trifon Zarezan – Day of Wine and Wine-Makers Ivanovden – Bathing of the Bride Ritual, Sushitsa Quarter Sirni Zagovezni – Starchovden (all settlements) March 1 – Day of Amateur Artists Peperuda (Butterfly) Custom for bringing rain – village of Kliment Lazaruvane (a spring ritual) Koleduvane (a Christmas ritual)

15.6.2 Indicate activities aimed at identifying, safeguarding, promoting and/or revitalising such values and practices.

In order to promote this exceptionally rich cultural and spiritual heritage, the municipality has marked and signposted the cultural and natural sites. In the municipality of Karlovo, for instance, they keep and respect the oil-yielding plants which have provided means of livelihood and a left a shining mark in local cultural traditions.

The queen of flowers – the ‘oily’ rose, the magnetic lavender and the curative herbs have taken the fame of the area far beyond the borders of Bulgaria. Rose and lavender oil have the highest possible quality here in the Rose Valley and have undisputable therapeutic features.

In order to revive local traditions and customs, the municipalities in the transition zone organize many traditional annual events some of which were already described above. Here we present a list of other events which are linked to the local traditions in the transition zone:

- Day of the Rose;– Festival of Etheric Oils and Medicinal Plants;– Enyovden (day of herbs);– Holiday of Lavender.

In these festive days, people present the richness and beauty of Bulgarian folklore tradition – customs and rituals, blessings for health and fertility. They perform typical local songs and dances;


demonstrate crafts and arts skills; organize artistic workshops, bazaar of meals with herbs, tasting of local products, demonstrations of rose- and lavender production.

15.6.3 How should cultural values be integrated in the development process: elements of identity, traditional knowledge, social organizations, etc.?

Organization and promotion through the local and national media of cultural events from the municipal cultural agenda. Partnerships with enterprises and institutions with the common cause of culture development in the municipalities from the biosphere reserve.

Establishment and maintenance of effective culture partnerships with other municipalities in Bulgaria, twin cities, non-governmental organizations.

Development of a common cultural product by the network of Chitalishta in the municipalities.

15.6.4 Specify whether any indicators are used to evaluate these activities. If yes, which ones and give details. (Examples of indicators: presence and number of formal and non-formal education programmes that transmit these values and practices, number of revitalisation programmes in place, number of speakers of an endangered or minority language).

Indicators are described in the municipal plans of each municipality and they vary according to the territory.

16. LOGISTIC SUPPORT FUNCTION:

16.1 Research and monitoring:

16.1.1 Describe existing and planned research programmes and projects as well as monitoring activities and the area(s) in which they are (will be) undertaken in order to address specific questions related to biosphere reserve management and for the implementation of the management plan (please refer to variables in Annex I).

Annually on the territory of CBNP employees of the park directorate conduct biodiversity monitoring – part of Annual plan for monitoring of environmental components.The financial instrument Life + of the EU ensured funding for three projects aimed at restoration of populations of vultures, of Imperial Eagle and Saker Falcon and improvement of conditions for large carnivores.

The Central Balkan National Park is a long term monitoring site included in the National Biodiversity Monitoring System of the Bulgarian Executive Environment Agency member of the European Environmental Agency

The Operational program Environment 2007 – 2013 ensured funding for projects aimed at improving the tourist information in the whole national park, restoration of damaged habitats and


one huge project (still on-going) for rehabilitation of tourist routes, building of visitors centers, restoration of habitats and species, building infrastructure for needs of park administration etc.

In addition, the transition zone is also subject to research projects and programmes which are focusing on various topics.

16.1.2 Summarize past research and monitoring activities related to biosphere reserve management (please refer to variables in Annex I).’

Researches:

During the 70’s and 80’s, the territory of the present National Park was a subject of studies by the then Institute of Ecology of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences at the Polish Academy of Sciences (1978 – 1991). Studies have also been conducted by the Institute of Forests at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.

Studies of the high-mountain meadows in the Park were carried out by the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program during the period 1994 – 1997. The USAID funded GEF Project for Biodiversity supported a set of intensive literature reviews, and field studies in the Park between 1996 and 1998. These studies were conducted mainly by scientific researchers in the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (Institute of Zoology, Institute of Botany, and the National Museum of Natural Sciences) whose studies and the information purchased from Agroles Project form the basis of the Park Geographic Information System (GIS).

Also, local studies and studies of individual species have been carried out by nongovernmental nature conservation organizations (NGOs) such as the Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds, the Wilderness Fund and the Balkan Wildlife Society.

In the course of the implementation of the first management plan Central Balkan National park Directorate initiated and participated as a partner in scientific researches on natural elements of the park, studies of mountain archeology (with the National Museum of Natural History), study of the status of the species of large mammals (with the National Natural Science Museum), etc.

Projects realized in connection with park membership in Pan Parks Foundation and funded by this organization:

o “Development of a strategy for sustainable tourism for Central Balkan National Park”;

o “Pilot Pan Parks certification of tourist sites and services in Central Balkan National Park”.

In 2006 under the Central Balkan National park Directorate was established and since then operates a Scientific Advisory Board with delegated participation of representatives of scientific institutes.

In order to obtain with up-to-date quantitative and qualitative information for a number of socio-economic problems associated with individual activities, as well as with the dynamics of attendance in the park, Central Balkan National Park Directorate initiated carrying out of polls- survey on the public opinion.

In the period of action of the first management plan with funding from National trust Eco fund were implemented projects related to recovery and management of alpine habitats; recovery of white head vulture – Gyps fulvus; repair of a road section in the region of the town of Kalofer; construction of eco-trail and camp for training how to survive in the mountain.


Central Balkan National Park Directorate accomplished a “Pilot demonstration model for application of hybrid lighting systems and solar systems for hot water for some buildings in Central Balkan National Park” funded by a program for small projects in the Global Environment Fund (GEF).

CBNPD participated as partner in a project funded by the German Foundation DBU (Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt). The aim of the project was to help the process of updating the management plan in the part concerning the management of the treeless zone.

Central Balkan National Park Directorate jointly with Plovdiv University carried out a project funded by Operational program “Human resources” 2007 – 2013 aimed at training of students in biology with practice on the territory of the park.

In the year of 2008 was conducted a poll “Survey of the public opinion, estimates and expectations related to awareness of Central Balkan National Park, the conditions for tourism and management measures for the conservation of nature in it”, in the framework of national representative survey on the topic “Nature protection”. The study made a comparative analysis with the results from socio-economic researches carried out in 1997 and 2004. The results showed an increased understanding about all parks in Bulgaria incl. Central Balkan National Park.

In the year of 2010 Central Balkan National park Directorate jointly with the Institute for biodiversity and ecosystem researches at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, organized a meeting “reintroduction of the falcon in Bulgaria: opportunities, challenges, partnerships”, at which were discussed the appropriate measures for conservation of particular habitats and opportunities for reintroduction of falcon in Bulgaria.

In the framework of the project “management model with the participation of the stakeholders of Central Balkan – an element of the National ecological network”, funded by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the financial mechanism of the European Economic Area was set up Public Advisory Council under the CBNPD. A long-term vision for Central Balkan National Park was drafted - "a vision of our common future".

Central Balkan National Park Directorate participated in the implementation of the following projects funded by LIFE financial mechanism of EU:

o LIFE 07 NAT /EN/000068 “Protection of Aquila heliaca and Falco cherrug and their key habitats located in Natura 2000 network in Bulgaria”. The project is completed.

o LIFE07 NAT/IT/000502 EX-TRA “Improvement of the conditions for large predators – Transfer of best practices”. The project is completed.

o LIFE 08/NAT/bg/278 “Recovery of the populations of European vultures in Bulgaria”. The project is completed.

CBNP fulfilled three projects funded by Operational Program Environment 2007 – 2013, as follows:

o Project No 58301-30-450 “Information provision and improvement of visitor’s infrastructure in the Central Balkan National Park”.

o Project No 58301-32-452 “Conservation, maintenance and restoration of natural habitats and the habitats of species in Central Balkan National Park”

o Project No DIR-5113325-12-109 “Central Balkan National Park for all”, supporting: development of new management plan; refurbishment and establishment of tourist infrastructure; carrying out of educational and information campaigns; restoration of habitats of species.

One of the main groups of activities related to planning and optimization of the management of the park within a project “Central Balkan National Park for all” is the development of model areas for sustainable management of pastures, development of a new methodology for the


assessment of the impact of grazing on biodiversity and preparation of recommendable standards for grazing and sample activities for the protection and recovery of the favorable condition of natural habitats in the highland meadows.

The scope of the activity “Restoring habitat” from “Central Balkan National Park for all” project includes lots for the implementation of restoration activities (pilot project) and implementation of technical projects to restore habitats affected by erosion.

Another activities form “Central Balkan National Park for all” project are investigate the feasibility of reintroduction of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) hunting falcon disseminating Balkan Trout (Salmo trutta fario) in the natural and habitat studies on the behavior and habitat of brown bears (Ursus arctos) living in the park, improving the nutritional base of large mammals and many others.

Projects and activities directly connected with monitoring of species and use of natural resources:

Since its establishment Central Balkan National Park Directorate applies Program for environmental monitoring, including abiotic and biotic components. The main part of the program is directed toward the collection and analysis of data related to the most important component of the national park- biological diversity. On the basis of the information collected appropriate management measures are taken.

Monitoring on the tourist flow is also provided by Central Balkan National Park Directorate.

Phenological observations and resource evaluation of the blueberries were conducted on the basis of which were determined the locations and areas for collecting of wild fruits.

For the purposes of conservation and sustainable use of resources of medicinal plants Central Balkan National Park Directorate commissioned the development of Master project for usage of medicinal plants and wild fruit allowed for collection for economic purposes. Within the project were identified and described 53 habitats with a total area 2 226.2 ha and were identified 55 test areas for the evaluation of the operational stocks of 10 species, 7 species of medicinal plants and 3 species of wild fruit.

In 2013 was completed a project “Mapping and identification of conservation status of natural habitats and types“ with funding provided by Operational Program “Environment 2007-2013”, The project was managed by the Ministry of environment and waters. Scientists from most of the competent institutes under the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and also experts from nongovernmental organizations were involved. Within the project were identified the natural habitats and habitats of species according to the Habitat Directive of EU and was determined their conservation status. The project concerned also the territory of Central Balkan National Park.

In 2015 was completed a project “Field studies of distribution of species / assessment of the status of species and habitats throughout the whole country – I phase “ with funding provided by Operational Program “Environment 2007 – 2013”. The project was also managed by MoEW and was held on territories across the country, including Central Balkan. The aim of the project is investigation and assessment of the status of species and their habitats which are the subject of national monitoring system of biodiversity, including through gathering actual data on the distribution and abundance of species from the system and their habitats at national level.

16.1.3 Indicate what research infrastructure is available in the proposed biosphere reserve, and what role the biosphere reserve will play in supporting such infrastructure.


On the territory of the park, there is one meteorological station called “Karlovo”. Furtheremore, there are another 5 hydro-meteorological stations situated nearby. In addition, there is an Institute of Mountain Agriculture and Livestock located in Troyan which is conducting research. In addition, the only high – school for professional mountain guides is located on the territory of the proposed biosphere reserve. It is envisaged that after the nomination of the biosphere reserve, further partnership between different research institutions will be promoted.

16.2 Education for sustainable development and public awareness:

16.2.1 Describe existing and planned activities, indicating the target group(s) and numbers of people involved (as “teachers” and “students”) and the area concerned.

Central Balkan National Park Directorate working on ensuring the participation and support of the public in decision-making process and enhancing environmental education, awareness and culture of society by improving public access to environmental information, public participation in making decisions about the environment and educational programs and campaigns, development of partnerships with NGOs, academia, businesses, local authorities.

CBNPD develops and works after a wide range of activities dedicated to students from schools and universities from the region and the country.

Central Balkan National Park Directorate develops interpretative routes, educational textbooks, manuals and other materials which presents to the attention of teachers from local schools and experts from the Regional inspectorates for education under the Ministry of education and science.Over the years the wide popularity acquired developed by employees of the CBNPD and approved by the Ministry of Education materials for informal environmental education. The last two educational packages were developed in early 2015 within the project “Central Balkan National Park for all”. They are designed for two age groups of children: 6 – 10 years and 11 – 18 years and present and interpret in an attractive way the biological diversity of the country and in particular of the Park.

In 2008 an educational journey with participation of 100 students majoring in forestry from 37 countries in Europe, Asia, North and South America, Africa and Australia, representing over 60 student organizations and university faculties in the world was organized.

Another successful project was the one aimed at Raising the professional qualifications of students in biology from Plovdiv university realized in co-operation between Central Balkan National Park directorate and Plovdiv University with the purpose of training of students in biology to work in a real working environment.

Students from the region, from Bulgaria and other countries like: France, Netherlands, Italy, United States took part in different internship programs in the national park.

There is a good co-operation between Central Balkan National Park Directorate and the local schools of arts. Within this cooperation were conducted 8 art plain-air in and one for art photography with students.


Central Balkan National Park Directorate supports annual travelling schools, children's camps dedicated on developing of skills for surviving in the mountain, summer training practices and training of volunteers.

The Park provides conditions for the visitors to communicate with nature without damaging it. The Park has great potential for the development and practicing of hiking. For the lovers of wild nature, extreme sports, riding and mountain biking are developed specialized routes for horse riding, bike riding, routes for observation of birds, plants, large mammals, cultural-historical, photo-safari. Special places for camping, setting of fire, recreation are established. Eco-routes, interpretative routes, classrooms in open air do help to enjoy the nature in a natural and exciting way.

In the updated management plan for the National Park Central Balkan za period 2016 - 2025, the program of educational activities and interpretation is rated as one of the most essential tools for achieving the goals of the park. It forms the attitude of Bulgarians towards nature, both in the park and in general. The program will cover six main themes: (1) biodiversity conservation, natural history, plants and animals; (2) landscapes, natural phenomena, geology and climate in the park; (3) species of conservation importance; (4) local traditions, culture and history; (5) partnerships with local communities; (6) the role of the Park Directorate in management and operation of the park. Eight are the projects included in this program.

16.2.2 What facilities and financial resources are (or will be) available for these activities?

For the implementation of the education program the Directorate will relies mainly again on target funds from the Annual Plans of activities funded by SEMEPA and on implementation of projects funded by Operational Programme Environment 2014 – 2020.

16.3 Contribution to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves:

16.3.1 How will the proposed biosphere reserve contribute to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, its Regional and Thematic Networks?

BRCB’s contribution to the World Network will be its wilderness territory with preserved ecosystems and biodiversity and the logistic function provided. In the future, it is expected that the biosphere reserve will start to contribute much further by enhancing its educational activities and working closer with UNESCO.

16.3.2 What are the expected benefits of international cooperation for the biosphere reserve?

The international cooperation is another way of recognition about the international significance of the BRCB and its remarkable natural assets, rich flora and fauna, cultural and historical heritage, traditional social-economic activities and good management.Besides high prestige the participation in the network of Biosphere reserves is also a serious commitment and obligation for the state party to ensure the preservation of the territory and to fulfill certain requirements, related to proper management, presence of management structure and framework, ensured funding, consultative mechanisms involving the interested stakeholders. It does not ignore the fact that the Biosphere Reserve has a developing function and will give added value


to the ecologically clean agricultural products produced in it, to the places of recreation and sports, to cultural events in the region.

The UNESCO network will provide a possibility to expand partnerships and work with other biosphere reserves to overcome similar problems or create projects together.

16.4 Internal and external communication channels and media used by the biosphere reserve:

16.4.1 Is (will) there (be) a biosphere reserve website? If yes, what is its URL?

The Biosphere Reserve will have its Internet site. Forthcoming riewing options: to create a separate site or inclusion in the website of the Park Directorate at www.centralbalkan.bg.

16.4.2 Is (will) there (be) an electronic newsletter? If yes, how often will it be published?

It is possible and judging by the good experience of the Park Directorate with the electronic bulletin of the park it is a very convenient way to spread the conservation cause.

16.4.3 Does (will) the biosphere reserve belong to a social network (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)?

Prоposed BR must have profiles in social networks.

17. GOVERNANCE, BIOSPHERE RESERVE MANAGEMENT AND COORDINATION: [Describe the following characteristics in the prospective that the site is being designated.]

17.1 Management and coordination structure:

17.1.1 What is the legal status of the biosphere reserve?

The biosphere reserve is based on an agreement for joint action and achievement of the objectives of the BRCB signed by the responsible institutions at the local/regional/national level who legitimize the process and the functioning of the BP.

The following areas have been included in the boundaries of the proposed BRCB: the core and buffer zones are part of the territory of Central Balkan National Park; the transition zone includes the territories of the municipalities of Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo and Anton. The legal status of BRCB is as follows:

Core zone – protected area – 9 reserves (Category I by the Protected Areas Act) Buffer zone – protected area – national park (Category II by the Protected Areas

Act; the 9 reserves are part of the NP)The core and buffer zones (CBNP) are also a protected zone under NATURA 2000 -

BG0000494 Central Balkan under the Birds Directive. The designation of protected zone under the Habitats Directive is expected soon within the same boundaries. The legal status of these zones is set by the Biodiversity Act.

Transition zone – the remaining territories of the municiplaities that joined the BP (Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo and Anton). Those territories are managed in accordance with General Urban Plans. There might be other protected areas and/or NATURA 2000 zones within this territory that have not been included in the core or buffer zones.


For more information about legal status, see 14.1.3.

17.1.2 What is the legal status of the core area(s) and the buffer zone(s)?

The legal status of the core zone and the buffer zone is protected areas according the Protected Areas Act as well as Natura 2000 sites according the EU Habitats Directive.

The core zone of the biosphere reserve consist of all existing 9 reserves found within the boundaries of the Central Balkan National park. Those existing 9 reserve are declared as Category 1 of protected area according the Protected Areas Act and fit to the Category II of IUCN,. According to Art. 16 (1), what is designated as a reserve are samples of natural ecosystems including typical and/or remarkable wild plant and animal species and their habitats. Total area of the zone is 20 019.6 (19831.32) ha. The core zone is designated to preserve the natural state of environment; scientific and educational activities and/or ecological monitoring; protection of genetic resources; conservation of natural habitats and of populations of protected rare, endemic and relic species; development of a network of ecosystems and endangered habitats that are representative for Bulgaria and Europe.

The buffer zone covers the territory of Central Balkan National Park (CBNP) without the reserves inside (the core zone). CBNP is declared and managed as a protected area of Category 2 - national park according the Protected Areas Act (PAA) and fits to Category II of IUCN. According to Art.5 p.2 of the PAA, the National Park is an exclusive state property (Art.8 (1) and (2) of PAA). As per Art.18 (1), “What is designated as a national park are territories which do not include settlements or similar but cover natural ecosystems with big diversity of plant and animal species and habitats, with typical and remarkable landscapes and abiotic sites.” Total area of the zone is 52001,47 (51904.76) ha.

17.1.3 Which administrative authorities have competence for each zone of the biosphere reserve (core area(s), buffer zone(s), transition area(s))?

The core zone and the buffer zone of the proposed biosphere reserve are managed by the Cental Balkan National Park Directorate as a competent regional structure of the Ministry of Environment and Water.

The Transitional zone is managed by the municipalities. Those are key competent authorites according the Law on Spatial Planning and the master plans of the respective municipalities. Other institutions and land owners have got responsibilities according the national legislation. The state forest territories in the transition zones are managed by the Executive Forest Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and its regional structures and state forestry enterprises.

17.1.4. Clarify the respective competence of each of these authorities. Make a distinction between each zone if necessary and mention any decentralized authority.

CBNPD was established on the basis of Art.46, para 1, p.2 and Art.49 of the Protected Areas Act by Order No. РД-506/29.12.1998, altered by Order No. РД-75/03.02.2006 of the Minister of Environment and Waters as a separate legal entity subordinated to the MOEW, with its headquarters


in the town of Gabrovo and subject: management and safeguarding of Central Balkan National Park (core and buffer zones of BRCB); implementation of the Management Plan and other strategic documents; coordination and control over activities of other bodies, organizations and entities; monitoring of the components of the environment and maintenance of databases; sanctioning of violators.

The municipalities are key competent authorites according the Law on Spatial Planning and the master plans of the respective municipalities.

The Executive Forest Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food is a competent authority to manage the state owned forests and take a control over the forest use outside the reserves and the national parks.

17.1.5 Indicate the main land tenure (ownership) for each zone.

According to the Protected Areas Act, national parks are exclusive state property, i.e. the core and buffer zones of BRCB are exclusive state property.

In the transition zone – on the territories of municipalities – land has mixed ownership.

17.1.6 Is there a single manager/coordinator of the biosphere reserve or are several people in charge of managing it? If one manager/coordinator, who designates and employs him/her (national authorities, environmental administrative agency, local authorities)?

The responsibility for the management of the corresponding zone is born by CBNPD for the core and buffer zones; for the remaining territory – by the municipalities; for the state forests in the transition zone – the Executive Forestry Agency, its regional branches and state forestry enterprises. CBNPD will function as a Secretariat of the BP and as an addressee for international correspondence.For a better legitimacy and coordination of the process, a Partnership Council will be established, including the CBNPD, representatives of all participating municipalities and of the Executive Forestry Agency. The Council will be chaired on the rotation principle.

17.1.7 Are there consultative advisory or decision-making bodies (e.g., scientific council, general assembly of inhabitants of the reserve) for each zone or for the whole biosphere reserve?

o If yes, describe their composition, role and competence, and the frequency of their meetings.

The CBNPD has an operational Public Consultative Council with representation of all stakeholder groups around the park. The Council has formulated by consensus a Long-Term Vision for CBNP – A Glimpse of Our Common Future 2010-2050. There is also a Scientific Consultative Council including representatives of the scientific community.

o For the purposes of the proposed CBBBP, the two consultative bodies will be transformed into one consultative structure related to BRCB management.

The special list of the Consultative Council at CBNP Directorate will consists of representatives of the partners under the agreement plus representatives of all major stakeholders who have any responsibilities about common actions for the functioning of the biosphere reserve, including but not limited to local authorities - the joining municipalities, CBNP Directorate, other regional structures of the MOEW, regional structures of the Ministry of Agriculture and Foods and the


Executive Forestry Agency, district governors, business (tourist business and producers of local goods and products), farmers, agricultural producers and stock breeders, tourist associations, NGOs (environmental, women’s, youth and others), academic, educational and cultural institutions (universities, schools and Chitalishta/ Community Centers), scientific and research institutes (BAS), etc.

17.1.8 Has a coordination structure been established specifically for the biosphere reserve?

o If yes, describe in detail its functioning, composition and the relative proportion of each group in this structure, its role and competence.

o Is this coordination structure autonomous or is it under the authority of local or central government, or of the manager/coordinator of the biosphere reserve?

On the basis of agreement for joint action and achievement of the objectives of the biosphere reserve of Central Balkan, the responsible institutions at the local/regional level will establish a Partnership Council and a Consultative Council to the National Park which will legitimize the process and the functioning of the BP. The Partnership Council will include the institutions who have signed the present nomination form and the agreement, namely: CBNP Directorate, Executive Forestry Agency and the municipalities which have joined the agreement. The CBNP Directorate will serve as a Secretariate of the Biosphere reserve and as a main address of correspondence.

17.1.9 How is the management/coordination adapted to the local situation?

As the catewgory of biosphere reserve/park is absent from national legislation, there are no regulations about its management. For that reason and in view of the requirements of the Seville Strategy, it is envisaged that the menagement of the proposed biosphere reserve is done with the participation of all stakeholders through the establishment of a Partnership Councip and Consultative body. The decision-making will be conformed with the regimes and norms of each zone set by the national and local regulations. Thus the management of this territory of a new type for Bulgaria will be adapted to the local situation.

17.1.10 Is there a procedure for evaluating and monitoring the effectiveness of the management?

Such will be developed in the future. Since the Biosphere Reserve is based on an agreement to implement joint activities and achieve common goals the procedure should contain periodic reporting to the Partnership Council and the Consultative Committee about the number and content of join activities initiated and impllemented.

17.2 Conflicts within the biosphere reserve:

17.2.1 Describe any important conflicts regarding the access or the use of natural resources in the area considered (and precise period if accurate). If the biosphere reserve has contributed to preventing or resolving some of these conflicts, explain what has been resolved or prevented, and how this was achieved for each zone.

As described in 14.2.2, there is certain anthropogenic pressure from some of the users of natural resources in the buffer zone of BRCB – mostly grazing of domestic animals and gathering of medicinal plants and wild fruits. Despite the registered problems (anthropogenic impact) related to the use of natural resources, there have not been any conflicts in that field up to now.


17.2.2 If there are any conflicts in competence among the different administrative authorities in the management of the biosphere reserve, describe these.

CBNPD is responsible for the management of CBNP (core and buffer zones of BRCB) while the municipal administrations are responsible for their correspondent territories. In that sense, there are no conflicts between the competencies of CBNPD and the municipal administrations regarding the management of BRCB.

17.2.3 Explain the means used to resolve these conflicts, and their effectiveness.

N/A

17.3 Representation, participation and consultation of local communities:

17.3.1 At what stages in the existence of a biosphere reserve have local people been involved: design of the biosphere reserve, drawing up of the management/cooperation plan, implementation of the plan, day to day management of the biosphere reserve? Give some specific examples.

BBF experts and CBNPD officers working on the nomination forms for BRCB realize the importance of involving local people in the process of biosphere reserve management and the perception of the site as ‘their own’. By this moment, the planning process has involved the municipal administrations of Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo and Anton; CBNPD, MOEW; Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Executive Forestry Agency. Through the establishment of a specialized Consultative Council with the participation of local people and stakeholders, constant communication and participation will be secured. A Strategy for the biosphere reserve will also be developed with their active participation.

17.3.2 Describe how the local people (including women and indigenous communities) have been, and/or are represented in the planning and management of the biosphere reserve (e.g., assembly of representatives, consultative groups).

In the process of planning for the proposed biosphere reserve, incl. the preparation of the nomination form, elected representatives of the local people and communities took part in the planning meetings and workshops. The participants in all information meetings, consultations and public hearings included, apart from the representatives of central administrations, their regional structures and national NGOs, only local authorities and communities representatives were involved, including members of the local parliaments (Municipal councils), mayors, municipal officers, etc.. More than 190 local people participated directly in the process of decision making and planning for the biosphere reserve while the information campaign in local media reached the whole population of the territory and all settlements in the municipality and the region. The women were actively involved in the process of planning and consultations during the planning workshops their participation was about 50 % of the participants.

The specialized Consultative Council will be as equitable as possible regarding the participation of the various groups.


17.3.3 Describe the specific situation of young people in the proposed biosphere reserve (e.g., potential impacts of the biosphere reserve on youth, consideration of their interests and needs, incentives to encourage them to participate actively in the governance system of the biosphere reserve).

Young people are target for informational, educational and awareness activities carried out by the stakeholders. The core and buffer zones of the proposed biosphere reserve provide excellent opportunities for environmental education and training. It is only here that the students can see some very rare representatives of the flora and fauna of Bulgaria and Europe. Young people are often among the most frequent visitors of the park since they have outdoor lessons here and the so-called ‘green schools’. Through the developed visitor infrastructure, the territory of the park is accessible for the smallest as well which is why teachers choose to heold their lessons here.

At the moment the region is facing demorgraphic problems which also result in the decrease of young people in the municipality. A significant amount of young people move to the capital of Bulgaria to study and do not come back to their home town. In this regard, the biosphere reserve could offer possibilities to focus more on the mentioned priorities. During the consultation process related to the designation of the biosphere reserve, it has been discussed that youth organizations should also be included in the coordination of the park. In addition, one of the main goals of the park is also focusing on the entrepreneurship, as the region offers multiple options for start ups and environmentally friendly businesses related to eco-tourism or organic farming. Furtheremore, through the work of the BRCB the young people could participate in various international projects and volunteer projects. In general, the framework of the biosphere reserve could further enhance those processes and contribute to the improvement of the situation.

It is expected that, after the nomination of the proposed biosphere reserve, its significance will grow and the visits of young people will increase. They will be able to observe not only conservationally important species but also practices of sustainable use of the natural resources.

17.3.4 What form does this representation take (e.g., companies, associations, environmental associations, trade unions)?

For the Partnership Council it was agreed that ech particiating institution will have one representative more specifically CBNPD – one, Executive Forest Agency – one, each of the five municipality will be represented by one person.

It is still to be decided what the exact form of representation will be selected for the participants in the Consultative Committee but it is a common practice with the current CBNP Council to elect representatives of the specific group of local stakeholders - asociations of farmers, bee keepers, environmental NGOs, trade unions, etc. The representatives of the municipalities are also elected local people.

17.3.5 Are there procedures for integrating the representative body of local communities (e.g., financial, election of representatives, traditional authorities)?

The local municipalities are actively involved in the consultation and planning the Biosphere Reserve. The members of the Municipal Councils (local parliaments) were consultated and took the decisions on behalf of the Municipalities to join the Biosphere Reserve and authorised the mayor of the respective municipality to sign the nomination file. The forseen Partnership Council will consist


in majority by the representatives of the municipalties – currently 5 of them and the state institutions CBNPD and the Executive Forest Agency will have two representatives. The elected representatives of the local communities (the municipality representatives) will also be involved in the Consultative Council. The municipalities are responsible and authorised to implement the activities within their territory especially in the transitional zone. It is also expected that the municipalities will actively participate in the development of join strategy/policy of the Biophere Reserve.

17.3.6 How long-lived are consultation mechanisms (permanent assembly, consultation on specific projects)? Make a complete description of this consultation. What are the roles of involved stakeholders compared to the role of the biosphere reserve?

There are no specially approved consultative mechanisms at this stage as the biosphere reserve is practically non-existent yet. The existing CBNP Consultative/Advisory Council meets at leat once a year.

17.3.7 What consultation mechanisms have been used, and who has been involved? Are they for specific purposes or long-term? What impacts have they had on decision-making processes (decisional, consultative or merely to inform the population)?

The following consultative mechanisms have been applied so far:

Meetings of CBNPD, representatives of MOEW and BBF with municipal mayors and councilors.

Consultations and public discussions with large number of organizations and other stakeholders.

The process ended by decisions of the municipal councils approving the incorporation of the municipality into the BP and giving the Mayor a permission to sign the nomination form.

The main consulation mechanisms which were used include public hearings, working seminars, opinion collecting, official letters and decissions. All opinions were heard and taken into consideration during the process. It is foreseen that in the future, more extensive consultation mechanisms will be developed and implemented.

17.3.8 Do women participate in community organizations and decision-making processes? Are their interests and needs given equal consideration? What incentives or programmes are in place to encourage their representation and participation (e.g.: was(were) a “gender impact assessment(s)” carried out)?

The womens’ roles have not posted an issue in Bulgarian society for the last 100 years at least. The matter has not been subject to special attention as women are treated equally to men with no exceptions in society in general. The areas adjoining the reserve are no exception either. No studies devoted to gender dependent control over sources of income have been conducted. No studies have been made examining different access to sources of income related to gender.

17.4. The management/cooperation plan/policy:

17.4.1 Is there a management/cooperation plan/policy for the biosphere reserve as a whole?


At the moment, there is no plan/policy for management/cooperation for the biosphere reserve as a whole. There is a Management Plans for the core zone and the buffer zone, covering also the adjacent territories. The MP of CBNP was approved by the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria in 2016. (Decision of the Council of Ministers No. 195/24. 2016, SG No. 26/ 2016)

Regarding the transition zone, there are other strategic plans and documents – master plans of the municipalities, the municipal development plans, etc.

A separate Strategy (policy) for development of the biosphere reserve will be elaborated in the future which will unify the policies and goals set in the Management Plans of the protected areas and the strategic documents of the municipality but, for now, the current nomination form will be used and the goals and tasks formulated hereby, to serve as a management tool for the Central Balkan Biosphere Reserve. When preparing this document, it is necessary to involve all stakeholders, especially when integrating and completing the goals/measures/approaches of the MP of and NP with the Municipal Development Plans.

17.4.2 Which actors are involved in preparing the management/cooperation plan? How are they involved?

As visible from 13.3, all key stakeholders in the management of the biosphere reserve have been identified. What is forthcoming is their involvement for the achievement of consensus about the form of an integrated strategy/policy for development of the joint territory of BRCB and the preparation of such a document.

17.4.3 Do local authorities formally adopt the management/cooperation plan? Are local authorities making reference to it in other policies and/or plans? If so, please provide details.

BRCB cannot be seen separately from its place and significance for the general status of the region. The decisions for regional planning and management affect BRCB and vice-versa.

Among the plans and strategic documents related to regional development, those which concern BRCB are: the regional development plans of North Central Region, South Central Region, North Western Region, South Eastern Region and South Western Region; the District Development Strategies of the Districts if Lovech, Plovdiv, Stara Zagora, Sofia and Gabrovo; the Municipal Development Plans of Troyan, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo and Anton. Master plans of the municipalities are also developed according the Law on Special Planning. The development guidelines set in those documents should be complementary to the provisions of the MP of CBNP, and all this is to be be described in the development strategy (policy) of the BRCB.

17.4.4 What is the duration of the management/cooperation plan? How often is it revised or renegotiated?

Deriving from the period of the Management Plan of CBNP (10 years), it is quite natural that the period of the strategy/policy for development of BRCB should be at least that long. Regarding the review of goals and tasks achievement for the management of BRCB, as well as the revision of the planning document if needed, the existing procedure of revision of MP of CBNP could be adapted with the active participation of the Consultative Council of the Biosphere Reserve.


17.4.5 Describe the contents of the management/cooperation plan. Does it consist of detailed measures or detailed guidelines? Give some examples of measures or guidelines advocated by the plan? (Enclose a copy).

The elaboration of a development strategy for BRCB is forthcoming.

17.4.6 Indicate how this management/cooperation addresses the objectives of the proposed biosphere reserve (as described in section 13.1).

The main prerequisites for the achievement of the management objectives of BRCB described in 13.1 are as follows:

Involvement of the key stakeholders in the process of planning, management and revision of the goals of BRCB;

Reaching a consensus about the strategic framework / management priorities of BRCB;

Development of programmes for work with the communities of BRCB aiming to stimulate their support and the gaining of practical financial benefits by connecting local needs with regional capacities and the management of the park.

17.4.7 Is the plan binding? Is it based on a consensus?

When preparing the Management Plan of CBNP (the core and buffer zones of BRCB), a large consensus has already been reached among stakeholders about management objectives and the ways to achieve them. When developing the plan/policy/strategy of BRCB, it is necessary to reach a consensus about the objectives of the transition zone.

17.4.8 Which authorities are in charge of the implementation of the plan, especially in the buffer zone(s) and the transition area(s)? Please provide evidence of the role of these authorities.

The structure responsible for the implementation of the Management Plan of CBNP (core and buffer zones of BRCB) is CBNPD. In the Tranzitional zone the Municipalities are managed according Master plan of each municipality as well as Municipal Development Plan. The main responsibility of participating municipalities are according to the Law on Special Planning, and the Municipality is fully responsible for the management of that zone. Better coherence and coordination in development of join goals and activities will be achieved by developing a join strategy/policy for he Biosphere Reserve.

17.4.9 Which factors impede or help its implementation (e.g.: reluctance of local people, conflicts between different levels of decision-making).

By the present moment, no factors hindering the process of BRCBP nomination have been registered. There are no conflicts that could impede implementation of plans; local people are willing to participate in the planning and management of the proposed biosphere reserve. The


Biosphere Reserve nomination involves only those municipaltities who are willing to join and took positive decisions to participate.

17.4.10 Is the biosphere reserve integrated in regional/national strategies? Vice versa, how are the local/municipal plans integrated in the planning of the biosphere reserve?

See information in 17.4.1. and 17.4.3.

17.4.11 Indicate the main source of the funding and the estimated yearly budget.

The main source of funding for the management of CBNP (including core and buffer zone of the biosphere reserve) is ensured by the State budget and the State Enterprise for Management Environmental Activities (SEMEPA). Semepa is part of the MOEW.

The funds from the state budget are used for salaries, social security, clothing of the staff, repair costs, fuel, telephone, mail property insurances, stationery and other materials; improving the skills and qualification of the experts (workshops, courses).

As for the funding, ensured for management and restoration activities in the Reserve, such as: improving of the conditions in the ecosystem, preservation of rare and endangered plant and animal species and their habitats; development of visitor’s infrastructure, educational programs and informational materials; carrying out of scientific researches and monitoring, etc., the main source is SEMEPA.

SEMEPA - is the main source of funding for the implementation of conservation measures envisaged by the protected areas’ Management Plans. The Environmental Protection Act stipulates the establishment of SEMEPA and its main aim is to provide funding for activities in protected areas. The activities of the Enterprise are financed through: charges provided for in the special laws regulating the environment; resources allocated from the national budget for environmental programs; donations by resident and non-resident natural and juristic persons; income accruing from interest on deposits; fines or pecuniary penalties for administrative violations imposed under the Environmental protection Act; income accruing from environmental protection services and activities; other proceeds determined by a legislative act.

The funding of activities in CBNP ensured by SEMEPA is done on the basis of an annual action plan for activities in territories which are exclusively state property.

Furthermore, periodic funding is secured via projects under programmes funded by the state budget and European Union programs.

Funding of activities in the transition zone is provided from the budget of the corresponding municipalities, from the State forestry Agency (as regards the activities in the state forest lands) and other financial mechanisms incl. programmes funded by the state budget and EC.

Funding for the core activities – meetings of Partnership Council and Consultative Councils is expected to be covered by the budget of each partner involved. Other activities like development of join stategy/policy of the Biosphere Reserve, promotional events and materails and further join


projects is expected to be covered by the other sources like SEMEPA, European Union programs, etc. Other mechanisms including collection of donations will also be explored.

17.5 Conclusions:

17.5.1 In your opinion, what will ensure that both the functioning of the biosphere reserve and the structures in place will be satisfactory? Explain why and how, especially regarding the fulfillment of the three functions of biosphere reserves (conservation, development, logistic) and the participation of local communities.

The existing structures in place, forseen mechanisms of consultation and collaboration and the demonstrated willingness for partnership between the key stake holders involved are a good basis and a strong prerequisite for effective and fruitfull functioning of Cental Balkan Biosphere Reserve.

The core and buffer zones of the BRCB are coinsiding with the existing National Park. Legally installed regimes of protection in the core and buffer zones and the existing nature protection legislation guarantee implementation of the conservation function of the the Biosphere Reserve. The long-term goals set for the management of CBNP related to the provision of opportunities for development of scientific, educational and recreational activities as well as the good cooperation established and active participation and interest of the local communities in sustainable development of the region as a whole will contribute to achievement of other two functions of the BP – the development and the logistic.

The existence of a specialized structure (CBNPD) directly responsible for the management of the national park, the active involvement of the local municipalities of Anton, Karlovo, Pavel Banya, Troyan and Sevlievo, as well as involvement of the key Executive forest agency creates the background of fruitfull collaboration where biodiversity conservation is tied up with the interests of the local people and stakeholders. The forseen structures of Council of Partners will maintain the good coordination and bring legitimacy as well as the Consultative council will guarantee that different kind of interests are represented and that the local, regional and national stake holders are discussing and are involved in planning and functioning of the Biosphere Reserve and their sustainable presence and future.

18. SPECIAL DESIGNATIONS:[Special designations recognize the importance of particular sites in carrying out the functions important in a biosphere reserve, such as conservation, monitoring, experimental research, and environmental education. These designations can help strengthen these functions where they exist or provide opportunities for developing them. Special designations may apply to an entire proposed biosphere reserve or to a site included within. They are therefore complementary and reinforcing of the designation as a biosphere reserve. Check each designation that applies to the proposed biosphere reserve and indicate its name]

Name:(X) UNESCO World Heritage Serial Site - The reserves in Central Balkan National Park are part of the application to join and extend the existing serial WHS “Primary beech forests of the Carpathians and the ancient beech forests of Germany”. The application is in a process of evaluation by the WHC.

( ) RAMSAR Wetland Convention Site


(X) Other international/regional conservation conventions/directives (specify)

Natura 2000 sites according the EU Habitats Directive SCIs:

BG0000190 Vitata stenaBG0000192 Reka Tundzha 1BG0000261 Yazovir KoprinkaBG0000263 SkalskoBG0000275 Yazovir StamboliyskiBG0000429 Reka StryamaBG0000494 Tsentralen BalkanBG0000609 Reka RositsaBG0000615 Devetashko platoBG0000616 MikreBG0000618 VidimaBG0001389 Sredna goraBG0001493 Tsentralen Balkan – bufer

Natura 2000 sites according the EU Birds Directive SPAs:

BG0000494 Tsentralen BalkanBG0002054 Sredna goraBG0002088 MikreBG0002102 Devetashko platoBG0002109 Vasilyovska planinaBG0002110 ApriltsiBG0002111 VelchevoBG0002128 Tsentralen Balkan – bufer

(X) Long term monitoring site (specify)The Central Balkan National Park is a long term monitoring site included in the

National Biodiversity Monitoring System of the Bulgarian Executive Environment Agency member of the European Environmental Agency

() Long Term Ecological Research (LTER site)

(X) OtherEuropean Union awarded Central Balkan with international prize European Diploma for protected area in 2009.Important Bird Area http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/sitefactsheet.php?id=409Important Plant Area http :// www . plantlife . org . uk / wild _ plants / ).Important Buterfly Area http :// www . nmnhs . com / butterfly _ areas _ bg / CBNP became member of EUROPARK Federation in 2006.The Central Balkan NP with eight of the reserves (without Kozya Stena rezerve) are included in The United Nations List of Protected Areas.

19. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS (to be submitted with nomination form):

(1) Location and zonation map with coordinates [Provide the biosphere reserve’s standard geographical coordinates (all projected under WGS 84).


http://www.nmnhs.com/butterfly_areas_bg/

http://www.plantlife.org.uk/wild_plants/

http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/sitefactsheet.php?id=409

Provide a map on a topographic layer of the precise location and delimitation of the three zones of the biosphere reserve (Map(s) shall be provided in both paper and electronic copies). Shapefiles (also in WGS 84 projection system) used to produce the map must also be attached to the electronic copy of the form. If applicable, also provide a link to access this map on the internet (e.g. Google map, website).]

All necessary maps are attached to the nomination form.

(2) Vegetation map or land cover map [A vegetation map or land cover map showing the principal habitats and land cover types of the proposed biosphere reserve should be provided, if available].

All necessary maps are attached to the nomination form.

(3) List of legal documents (if possible with English, French or Spanish synthesis of its contents anda translation of its most relevant provisions)[List the principal legal documents authorizing the establishment and governing use and management of the proposed biosphere reserve and any administrative area(s) they contain. Provide a copy of these documents.

Copies of the Decisions of the Municipal Councils of the participating municipalities (in Bulgaria) are attached to the nomination form. Copies of the Municipal Development Plan of each participating municipality (in Bulgarian). Management plan of Central Balkan National ParkLegal documents and orders for the protected areas in English

(4) List of land use and management/cooperation plans[List existing land use and management/cooperation plans (with dates and reference numbers) for the administrative area(s) included within the proposed biosphere reserve. Provide a copy of these documents. It is recommended to produce English, French or Spanish synthesis of its contents and a translation of its most relevant provisions]

(5) Species list (to be annexed)[Provide a list of important species occurring within the proposed biosphere reserve, including common names, wherever possible.]

The species list has been provided above.

(6) List of main bibliographic references (to be annexed)[Provide a list of the main publications and articles of relevance to the proposed biosphere reserve over the past 5-10 years].

It was provided above.

(7) Original Endorsement letters according to paragraph 5

(8) Further supporting documents.

20. ADDRESSES:

20.1 Contact address of the proposed biosphere reserve: [Government agency, organization, or other entity (entities) to serve as the main contact and to whom all correspondence within the World Network of Biosphere Reserves should be addressed.]

Name: Gencho Ivanov Iliev, Director of National park “Central Balkan”


Street or P.O. Box: 3 Bodra Smyana St.City with postal code: Gabrovo 5300Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 66/801 277E-mail: [email protected] site: http://visitcentralbalkan.net/bg/pages/index/l:home

20.2. Administering entity of the core area(s):

Name: Gencho Ivanov Iliev, Director of National park “Central Balkan”Street or P.O. Box: 3 Bodra Smyana St.City with postal code: Gabrovo 5300Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 66/801 277E-mail: [email protected] site: http://visitcentralbalkan.net/bg/pages/index/l:home

20.3. Administering entity of the buffer zone(s):

Name: Gencho Ivanov Iliev, Director of National park “Central Balkan”Street or P.O. Box: 3 Bodra Smyana St.City with postal code: Gabrovo 5300Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 66/801 277E-mail: [email protected] site: http://visitcentralbalkan.net/bg/pages/index/l:home

20.4. Administering entity of the transition area(s):

Name: Stoyan Ivanov Garchev, Mayor of Anton MunicipalityStreet or P.O. Box: Saedinenie sq. AntonCity with postal code: Anton, Sofia district, 2089Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 7186/2300E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.antonbg.com

Name: Emil Kabaivanov, Mayor of Karlovo municipality


http://www.antonbg.com/

mailto:[email protected]

http://visitcentralbalkan.net/bg/pages/index/l:home






Street or P.O. Box: , Petko Sabev str. City with postal code: 4300, KarlovoCountry: BulgariaTelephone: +359 335/ 54 500E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.karlovo.bg

Name: Stanimir Hristov Radevski, Mayor of Pavel Banya municipality Street or P.O. Box: 15, Osvobojdenie strCity with postal code: 6155, Pavel banyaCountry: BulgariaTelephone: +359 4361 / 3260E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web site: www. pavel banya.bg

Name: Ivan Ivanov, Mayor of Sevlievo municipalityStreet or P.O. Box: 1, Svoboda sq. City with postal code: Sevlievo, 5400Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 675/32791E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www. sevlievo .bg

Name: Donka Ivanova Mihailova, Mayor of Troyan municipality Street or P.O. Box: 1, Vazrajdane sq.City with postal code: 5600, TroyanCountry: BulgariaTelephone: +359 670 / 68 001E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.troyan.bg

Name: Toni Venkov Krastev, Executive Director of the Executive Forest Agency with the Ministry of food and agricultureSofia, 1040, 55, Hristo Botev bld.Tel: +359 02 98511560, +359 02 9881495Fax: +359 02 9813736E-mail: [email protected]



http://www.troyan.bg/


http://www.sevlievo.bg/


http://www.pavelbanya.bg/



http://www.karlovo.bg/

Annex I to the Biosphere Reserve Nomination Form, January 2013MABnet Directory of Biosphere ReservesBiosphere Reserve Description1

Administrative detailsCountry: BulgariaName of BR: Central Balkan Biosphere ReserveYear designated: (to be completed by MAB Secretariat)Administrative authorities: (17.1.3)The core zone and the buffer zone of the proposed biosphere reserve are managed by the Cental Balkan National Park Directorate as a competent regional structure of the Ministry of Environment and Water.

The Transitional zone is managed by the municipalities. Those are key competent authorites according the Law on Spatial Planning and the master plans of the respective municipalities. Other institutions and land owners have got responsibilities according the national legislation. The state forest territories in the transition zones are managed by the Executive Forest Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and its regional structures and state forestry enterprises.

Name Contact: (20.1)

Name: Gencho Ivanov Iliev, Director of National park “Central Balkan”Street or P.O. Box: 3 Bodra Smyana St.City with postal code: Gabrovo 5300Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 66/801 277E-mail: [email protected]

Contact address: (Including phone number, postal and email adresses) (20.1)

Name: Gencho Ivanov Iliev, Director of National park “Central Balkan”Street or P.O. Box: 3 Bodra Smyana St.City with postal code: Gabrovo 5300Country: BulgariaTelephone: +359 66/801 277E-mail: [email protected]

Related links: (web sites) Web site: http://visitcentralbalkan.net/bg/pages/index/l:home Social networks: (16.4.3)

DescriptionGeneral description: (Site characteristics in 11.1; human population in 10)

1 To be posted on the MABnet once the nomination has been approved. The numbers refer to the relevant sections of the nomination form.





Approximately 25 lines

CBNP and its reserves are located in the central part of Bulgaria and includes the central and higher portions of the Balkan Mountain Range. The altitude of the Park ranges from 500 to 2 376 masl. Botev peak is the highest peak in the Park and in the Balkan Range.The Park contains sections of five administrative regions and falls within nine municipalities.

The proposed Biosphere reserve Central Balkan is located in the region of the central and higher part of Stara planina Mountain (named Balkan Range) – the main range of the Balkan Peninsula and Bulgaria and an extension of the Alpine-Carpathian folds. The hart of the biosphere reserve is CBNP and it contains of rare and endangered wildlife species and communities, self-regulating ecosystems with great biological diversity, as well as historical sites of global cultural and scientific significance.CBNP is the biggest well protected old beech forest massif in Bulgaria. Beech occupies 29 960.4 ha – 71% of the forests in the National Park and 5.2% of the area of the beech forests in Bulgaria. Forests of natural origin in the park are approximately 97%. Most of them are not affected by human activity in the last century. The average age of the beech communities in CBNP is 135 years.

Major ecosystem type: (14.1)On the territory of the proposed biosphere reserve physical landscape includes mountains, mountain range, Fore Balkan, Balkan valleys and forests. Cultural landscape is presented mainly in the transition area with its three categories.In buffer zone (in particular in multifunctional zone of the CBNP) organically evolved cultural landscape can be determine. This is a result of 8 centuries interaction between natural process and transhumance with all incorporating in it human activities on the use of natural pasture resources.

Major habitats & land cover types: (11.6)

With regard to phyto-geography, the park area is included in the Central Balkan District of the Ilyrian Province, of the European Deciduous Forest Area.

All six vegetation belts in Bulgaria are represented in proposed biosphere reserve. These include xerothermic oak forests, xeromesophyllic and mesophyllic oak and hornbeam forests, a beech belt (best represented; 71% of the forests), a coniferous belt (15.7% of the forests), a sub-alpine and alpine belt.

The territory of the Biosphere reserve contains a wide variety of natural habitats. Here are found more than 50 habitat types according the EU Habitats Directive.

Bioclimatic zone (11.5) : Dry Sub-humid and Moist Sub-humidLocation (latitude & longitude): (6.1)

Cardinal points: Latitude LongitudeMost central point: 42.799 24.85669Northernmost point: 43.19407 24.98565Southernmost point: 42.47458 24.98429


Westernmost point: 42.73867 24.21962Easternmost point: 43.04933 25.35003

Total Area (ha): (7)Core area(s): (7)Buffer zone(s): (7)Transition area(s) : (7)

Terrestrial Marine (if applicable) Total

7.1 Area of Core Area(s): 19831.32 ha*(20019.6 ha)**

N/A 19831.32 ha*(20 019.6 ha)**

7.2 Area of Buffer Zone(s): 51906.45 ha*(52001.47 ha)**

N/A 51906.45 ha*(52001.47 ha)**

7.3 Area of Transition Area(s): 297267.84 ha N/A 297267.84 ha

TOTAL: 369005.61 ha N/A 369005.61 ha

Different existing zonation: (7.4)Altitudinal range (metres above sea level): (11.2)

Highest elevation above sea level: 2376 metres

Lowest elevation above sea level: 201 metres

Zonation map(s): (6.2)


Main objectives of the biosphere reserveBrief description (13.1)


The main objectives of the proposed biosphere reserve are greatly inter-related with the ones set in the CBNP Management Plan for the period 2016-2025, as follows:• Objective 1 Provide a long-term protection of biotic components in BRCB (conservation function);• Objective 2 Preserve landscape and other abiotic components of BRCB (conservation function);• Objective 3 Provide opportunities for development of environmentally-friendly livelihoods and nature-based tourism in the area of the biosphere reserve (development function);• Objective 4 Create conditions for development of scientific and research activities, monitoring, environmental education, training and exchange of experience.


ResearchBrief description (16.1.1)


Annually on the territory of CBNP employees of the park directorate conduct biodiversity monitoring – part of Annual plan for monitoring of environmental components.The financial instrument Life + of the EU ensured funding for three projects aimed at restoration of populations of vultures, of Imperial Eagle and Saker Falcon and improvement of conditions for large carnivores.

MonitoringBrief description (16.1.1)


The Central Balkan National Park is a long term monitoring site included in the National Biodiversity Monitoring System of the Bulgarian Executive Environment Agency member of the European Environmental Agency


Specific variables (fill in the table below and tick the relevant parameters)

BiodiversityAbiotic factors X Afforestation/ReforestationAcidic deposition/Atmospheric factors AlgaeAir quality Alien and/or invasive species XAir temperature Amphibians XClimate, climatology Arid and semi-arid systemsContaminants AutoecologyDrought Beach/soft bottom systemsErosion X BenthosGeology Biodiversity aspects XGeomorphology BiogeographyGeophysics BiologyGlaciology BiotechnologyGlobal change Birds XGroundwater X Boreal forest systems XHabitat issues BreedingHeavy metals Coastal/marine systemsHydrology X Community studies XIndicators Conservation XMeteorology Coral reefsModeling Degraded areasMonitoring/methodologies X DesertificationNutrients Dune systemsPhysical oceanography EcologyPollution, pollutants Ecosystem assessment XSiltation/sedimentation Ecosystem functioning/structureSoil X Ecosystem servicesSpeleology EcotonesTopography Endemic species XToxicology EthologyUV radiation Evapotranspiration

Evolutionary studies/PalaeoecologyFauna XFires/fire ecologyFishes XFlora XForest systems XFreshwater systems XFungi XGenetic resourcesGenetically modified organismsHome gardensIndicatorsInvertebrates XIsland systems/studiesLagoon systems


Lichens XMammals XMangrove systemsMediterranean type systemsMicroorganismsMigrating populationsModelingMonitoring/methodologies XMountain and highland systems XNatural and other resources XNatural medicinal products XPerturbations and resiliencePests/DiseasesPhenologyPhytosociology/Succession XPlanktonPlants XPolar systemsPollinationPopulation genetics/dynamicsProductivityRare/Endangered species XReptiles XRestoration/RehabilitationSpecies (re) introductionSpecies inventorying XSub-tropical and temperate rainforest systemsTaxonomyTemperate forest systems XTemperate grassland systems XTropical dry forest systemsTropical grassland and savannah systemsTropical humid forest systemsTundra systemsVegetation studies XVolcanic/Geothermal systemsWetland systemsWildlife X


Socio-economic Integrated monitoringAgriculture/Other production systems Biogeochemical studiesAgroforestry Carrying capacityAnthropological studies Climate changeAquaculture Conflict analysis/resolutionArchaeology Ecosystem approach XBioprospecting Education and public awareness XCapacity building Environmental changes XCottage (home-based) industry Geographic Information System (GIS) XCultural aspects Impact and risk studiesDemography IndicatorsEconomic studies Indicators of environmental qualityEconomically important species Infrastructure developmentEnergy production systems Institutional and legal aspects XEthnology/traditional practices/knowledge Integrated studiesFirewood cutting Interdisciplinary studiesFishery Land tenureForestry X Land use/Land coverHuman health X Landscape inventorying/monitoringHuman migration Management issues XHunting Mapping XIndicators ModellingIndicators of sustainability Monitoring/methodologies XIndigenous people's issues Planning and zoning measures XIndustry Policy issues XLivelihood measures Remote sensingLivestock and related impacts Rural systemsLocal participation Sustainable development/use XMicro-credits Transboundary issues/measuresMining Urban systemsModelling Watershed studies/monitoringMonitoring/methodologies XNatural hazardsNon-timber forest products XPastoralismPeople-Nature relationsPovertyQuality economies/marketingRecreation XResource useRole of womenSacred sitesSmall business initiativesSocial/Socio-economic aspectsStakeholders' interestsTourism XTransports


Annex II to the Biosphere Reserve Nomination Form, January 2013Promotion and Communication MaterialsFor the Proposed Biosphere Reserve

Provide some promotional material regarding the proposed site, notably high quality photos, and/or short videos on the site so as to allow the Secretariat to prepare appropriate files for press events. To this end, a selection of photographs in high resolution (300 dpi), with photo credits and captions and video footage (rushes), without any comments or sub-titles, of professional quality – DV CAM or BETA only, will be needed.

In addition, return a signed copy of the following Agreement on Non-Exclusive Rights. A maximum of ten (10) minutes on each biosphere reserve will then be assembled in the audiovisual section of UNESCO and the final product, called a B-roll, will be sent to the press.

Promotional materials are attached to the nomination form.


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