FINAL REPORT. by Latinka Topalova-Rzerzycha

FINAL REPORT Fire and environment: ecological and cultural aspects. Through conflict to sustainable management - case study in the Doupki-Djindjiritza Biosphere Reserve, Bulgaria by Latinka Topalova-Rzerzycha October 2006 i

TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...iv ABBREVIATIONS...v SUMMARY...1 INTRODUCTION...2 STUDY AREA AND METHODOLOGY...4 1. Study area...4 2. Methods of work...6 Results and discussion...9 Background...9 General characteristic of the burnt area...10 Microbiological studies...12 Soil studies...14 Plant communities studies...16 FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF A TRANSITION AREA OF DOUPKI- DJINDJIRITZA BIOSPHERE RESERVE...28 Background...28 Legal status of Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve...30 Field research Biosphere Reserves state of general knowledge among the population of Razlog Municipality...30 SWOT analysis - Establishment of Pirin BR...35 Zoning of Pirin Biosphere Reserve...37 Socio-economic patterns in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality...41 Background...41 Resource uses in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality...46 Cultural resources in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality...49 1. Archeological sites...50 2. Churches 7 churches are designated as cultural monuments...50 3. Traditional festivals and customs...50 4. Traditional handicrafts...51 Rising public awareness for nature conservation...51 Information materials...53 Meetings, workshops, presentations...53 Exhibition Fire and people...55 Media...55 Website...56 Conclusion and recommendation...57 References...58 Appendices...A1 ii

List of Tables Table 1. Basic information about the burnt area in the Pirin Mt...10 Table 2. Distribution of the territory of the study area by elevations (m above see level)...10 Table 3. Distribution of the territory of the study area by inclination, (slope in Degrees)...12 Table 4. Amount and characteristic of soil microflora in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites (10 3 /g dry soil)...12 Table 5. Amount of Mg, Ca, K and Na (total (T) and mobile (M) forms) in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites, mg/kg...14 Table 6. Floristic composition of fire-affected P. nigra Arn. forest in the Dupki-Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve (SP1)...17 Table 7. Floristic composition of fire-affected P. nigra Arn. forest in the Pirin NP, outside Dupki- Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve (SP2)...20 Table 8. Floristic composition of control site non-burnt P. nigra Arn. forests (SP3), Doupki- Djindjiritza BR...23 Table 9. General information about Biosphere Reserves in Bulgaria...29 Table 10. Main macro economical indicators, characterising Bulgarian economy...41 Table 11. Basic socio-economical indicators in the Transition area...43 Table 12. Dynamics of population number in Razlog Municipality...45 Table 13. Distribution of Resources in Pirin Biosphere Reserve...46 Table 14. Logical framework of the project activities related to rising public awareness for nature conservation...52 List of Figures Figure 1. Study area map, showing Pirin NP and Doupki-Djindjiritza BR...4 Figure 2. Basic map of the study area, showing sample plots in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control site...7 Figure 3. Distribution of the territory of the study area by exposure of the terrain...11 Figure 4. Species diversity and average amount of the baccilar microflora in the 0-5 cm soil layer in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites (10 3 /g dry soil)...13 Figure 5. Average amount of pigment forming bacteria in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites (10 3 /g dry soil)...13 Figure 6. Soil ph in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites...14 Figure 7. Amount of С (%) in fire-affected and not-burnt site...15 Figure 8. Amount of total N (%)in fire-affected and not-burnt site...15 Figure 9. Classification dendrogram...26 Figure 10. Ordination diagram...27 Figure 11. Age structure of the respondents...33 Figure 12. Percentage distribution of the core zone, buffer zone and...38 Figure 13. Zonation of the Pirin Bioshere Reserve...40 Figure 14. Population density is the Transition area of the Pirin BR, number of people/ha...44 Figure 15. Distribution of Resources in Pirin Biosphere Reserve...47 iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to express my deepest gratefulness to UNESCO MAB for the financial support of this study, as well as to the National MAB Committee for readiness to help in the work process and especially to Vladimir Vladimirov. The implementation of the project would not have been possible without the involvement of wide circle of citizens and experts, individuals and institutions. Special thanks go to a number of experts for the methodology help, advices and technical assistance: Maja Nustororva (University of Forestry), Alexander Tashev (UF), Emilija Velizarova (Institute of Forestry, BAS), Marius Dimitrov (UF), Julia Hristova (UF), Todor Liubenov (Institute of Forestry, BAS), Stojan Stojanov (Institute of Botany, BAS). All activities regarding rising public awareness for nature conservation, as well as the feasibility study for the establishment of a transition area of the in Doupki-Djindjiritza Biosphere Reserve were kindly supported by BFB, Simana Markovska (PTF), municipalities of Razlog, Bansko, Gotse Delchev, Sandanski, Strumiani, Kresna and Simitly. Special appreciation for various kinds of information needed for the project also goes to Georgi Ekov (RIEW-Sofia), Rajka Ivanova (Regional Historic Museum-Blagoevgrad), Tonja Marinova (Municipality of Strumiani). I would also like to thank the leadership and employees of the Pirin NP, especially to Liljana Dekova and Ivan Gergov, for their involvement in the project, technical support and transport. In the process of work I had the opportunity to use professional advices of international consultants with experience in the management of Biosphere reserves, whose practical experience provided me knowledge for better understanding the complexity of the BR concept. I would like to mention Martin Solar (Triglav NP, Slovenia) and Dr. Engelbert Ruoss (Entelbuch BR, Switzerland). Last but not least, I wish to thank to my husband, family and friends, who supported me in the process of work and were directly and/or indirectly involved in the project s implementation. iv

ABBREVIATIONS BAS BD BFB BR BRs BSBCP BSPB dka EU GDP MAB MAF MOEW Mt. NP NPA NPD PA PAA PAs PTF RIEW SWOT analysis UF UNESCO Bulgarian Academy of Sciences Basin Directorate Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation Biosphere Reserve Biosphere Reserves Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Programme Bulgarian Society or the Protection of Birds/BirdLife Bulgaria dekar European Union Gross domestic product Man and the Biosphere Programme Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Ministry of Environment and Water Mountains National Park National Park Administration National Park Directorate Protected Area Protected Areas Act Protected Areas Pirin Tourist Forum Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats analysis University of Forestry United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization v

SUMMARY The project is an interdisciplinary study in Doupki-Djindiritza Biosphere Reserve with the purpose of searching for mechanisms for sustainable use of nature resources in the Pirin Mountains. The scientific research of impact of fires on forest ecosystems is used as a demonstrative example for nature conservation. An exhibition under the title Fire and people is organised. It presents fires and their natural role, as well as discusses socio-economical aspects of fire. The early-post fire changes in some components of Austrian pine (Pinus nigra Arn.) ecosystems were studied and compared to non-burnt control sites. The amount and the composition of the soil microflora differ in the fire-affected and non-burnt areas. Although in the fire affected sites in the BR there is not a certain change in the number of the total microflora in comparison with the control site, there is a certain change in the distribution of the different groups of micro organisms. The results of the soil analysis of the fire-affected area show that there are differences in the chemical indicators and properties in comparison with the control site. For example, the study revealed an increase for the surface 0-5 cm soil layer in the both sites affected by fire in comparison with the non-burnt areas. Post-fire changes in vegetation and the early post-fire succession was studied. The described communities are formed as a result of disturbance. They represent first stages of fire-caused secondary succession and have different structure and belong to another syntaxon Festuco-Brometea Br.-Bl. Et R. Tx. in Br.-Bl. 1949. Non-affected forest belongs to Erico-Pinetea Horvat 1959 vegetation Class. Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve is an old generation biosphere reserve. It is not in conformity with contemporary concept of a BR, as well as it does not accomplished requirements of international guidelines of the Seville Strategy. Feasibility study for establishment of a transition area of Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve was carried out. The state of general knowledge about BRs and traditions in a pilot area (municipality of Razlog) was studied. SWOT analysis about establishment of a biosphere reserve on the territory of Pirin Mountains was made. An appropriate zonation was elaborated. The project implementation involved a number of stakeholders in the Pirin region, as well as decision-makers in the field of environmental protection. More than 50 formal and informal meetings were organised. More than 70 key stakeholders were familiarised with the general idea of the BRs. The stability of the project could be state by the two indicates: 1). personal and institutional engagement towards sustainable development and biodiversity conservation of the study area and 2.) declared interest on behalf of stakeholders to work in this field. 1

INTRODUCTION The problems and negative impacts associated with large-scale uncontrolled forest fires have increased in Bulgaria over the past decade. The effects of fires for the period 1999-2001 could be classified as a real disaster. All in all from 1999 to 2001 113,400 ha forests were burnt (around 3.9 % of the whole territory of the country) and in 2001 alone 57,400 ha were burnt. The culmination appeared in 2000 when almost 3% of Bulgarian forests had been affected by fire [29, 71]. Despite fire is vital and natural part of forest ecosystems [8, 47] and the fact that humans have used fires for thousands of years as a land management tool [48], it is important to protect ecosystems vulnerable to forest fires and that are critically important for the conservation at the national and global level. A human-caused fire destroyed more than 45 dka of high value conservation Austrian pine (Pinus nirga Arn.) forest in the core of (Bayuvi) Doupki-Djindjiritza Biosphere reserve; more than 700 dka just next to the Pirin NP (on the territory of Razlog Forestry District) and took four human victims in July 2003. The fire cause was deliberate and with the intention to conceal the consequences of illegal logging on the area outside of borders of the NP. This territory has been used in sustainable way by locals for centuries. Over the past ten years human activities on that area have lead to a great disturbance and run a risk for a total degradation of the ecosystem and losing unique biodiversity. Furthermore none of the Bulgarian Biosphere reserves has a transition area and if such is to be established it will coincide with a conflict area where illegal logging was at a great scale. There are lots of challenges in respect to protected areas management in Bulgaria. PAs in Bulgaria are established in order to preserve environment, nature ecosystems, landscape and biodiversity. However, most of the categories (except for the Nature Park) are not designed to meet contemporary concepts in terms of combining nature protection and economical development. Although BR are designed in order to answer the extremely important question (especially in the case of globalising world and loosing traditions and indigenous knowledge), in practice their real functioning depends on various factors and mainly is connected to the shared responsibility of all stakeholders. Therefore the project has two aspects research of the short-term impact of fire on the ecosystem and studying the possibilities for establishment of a transition area in (Bayuvi) Doupki- Djindjiritza Biosphere Reserve. 2

The Strategic goal of the study is: Using Fire&Environment case as a tool for creating a cooperative conservation of biodiversity, ecosystem function and services, as well as natural and cultural values in (Bayuvi) Doupki- Djindjiritza Biosphere reserve Objectives: Investigating the short-term effect of fire on the forest ecosystem; Feasibility study of establishment of a transition area; Zoning of the Biosphere reserve; Rising public awareness for nature conservation. 3

1. Study area STUDY AREA AND METHODOLOGY The study is carried out in the Pirin Mountains (South-Western Bulgaria), which belong to the Rila-Rhodopean region, the subregion of Rila Mt. and Pirin Mt. and the Mesta River basin, the Rila-Pirin region [34]. Doupki-Djindjiritza Biosphere Reserve is situated within the boundaries of the Pirin National Park, in the north-western parts of the Park [Figure 1]. Figure 1. Study area map, showing Pirin NP and Doupki-Djindjiritza BR Doupki-Djindjiritza BR covers an area of 2873 ha, which is 7.1% from the total area of the Pirin NP. According to the administrative division of Republic of Bulgaria the territory of Doupki- Djindjiritza BR falls within the district Blagoevgrad and 2 Municipalities: Razlog and Bansko. The Blagoevgrad District is in the southwest planning region according to the National Plan for regional development [1]. Distribution of the area of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR by municipalities, settlements is: 2373 ha falls within the Municipality Razlog (Settlement, town of 4

Razlog), 500 ha Municipality Bansko (Settlement, town of Bansko), i.e. 82,6% of the total area falls within the Razlog Municipality [12, 64, 44]. Due to territorial and administrative dividing of the Pirin NP, Doupki-Djindjiritza BR is situated in the Bayuvi Doupki Park District (with total area of 4842.1 ha), which is guarded by 5 park rangers [20]. The land in Doupki-Djindjiritza BR is won by the state [39]. The Doupki-Djindjiritza Biosphere Reserve is one of the oldest reserves and among the first attempts for nature conservation in Bulgaria. It aim is to preserve unique for Europe forests of Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce Griseb.) and Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii Christ). Pinus peuce Griseb. is endemic for the Balkans tree species, whereas Pinus heldreichii Christ is sub-endemic and occurs on the Balkans and in South Italy [10]. The Doupki-Djindjiritza BR comprises a limestone landscape with ragged landscapes, caves and mainly pine forests between 1300 and 2884 meters above sea level. The Bayuvi Doupki Circuses are situated on the territory of the BR. The slopes are steep, and the predominant expositions are north-western [12, 40]. The territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR belongs to Continental-Mediterranean Climate District, South-western Climate Region, Mountain climatic sub-region (including areas over 1000 m above see level) [46]. Due to the impact of the relief on the climate, the BR is situated into two zones: middle mountain zone with an altitude of 1000-1800 m and high mountain zone with an altitude above 1800 m. The main climate characteristics for the whole mountain are lowering of the temperature with increasing of the altitude and increase of the quantity of rainfalls. The annual temperature varies within the ranges of about 5-7 C in the middle mountain zone and within 2-3 C in the highest parts of the mountain. The coldest month is January and the hottest month is July. The annual rainfalls vary in the range of 600-700 mm to 1000-1200 mm [12]. Pirin Mt. as a morphological unit represents a complex horst high mountain structure, rising in the middle part of the Rila-Rhodopes massif between the graben valleys of the Struma and Mesta Rivers. The main orographic and hydrographic ridge stretches from northwest to south southeast and lies closer to the northeastern parts of the mountain. In morphographic aspect Pirin Mountain is divided into three parts: Northern, Middle and Southern [34]. The Doupki- Djindjiritza BR belongs to the Northern Part. The main constituent rock formations in the BR are marbles and granites [40]. The soil types, in accordance with World Soil Classification [16], with biggest distribution in the reserve are Disric-Eutric Cambisols, Umbric Cambisols, Modic Cambisols and Rendzinas [12, 40]. In the reserve the area covered by forests is 1738.4 ha coniferous forests cover 96.20 per cent, whereas broadleaved forest only 3.80 per cent. The natural forests are 98.12 per cent. Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce Griseb.) forests cover the biggest territories (more than 10 per 5

cent). These are of particular interest from conservation point of view, because of the endemic nature of this pine and the species occurring in the communities. The average age of the Macedonian pine forests varies from 110-250 years and some individuals are over 500 years old. The communities of Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii Christ) cover about 7.30 per cent of the whole forested area. They occupy mainly the limestone areas in Bayuvi Dupki Park Region. They grow on well-drained habitats, in most cases this is due to protruding sites and very steep slopes. With limited distributions are communities of Pinus nigra Arn. (2.67%), Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. (2.46), Abies alba Mill. (1.97) and Pinus sylvestris L. (1.40%) [12, 40]. In conclusion the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR preserves unique biodiversity and ensures maintaining of natural ecosystems with various plants and animals (including regional and local endemic species). Pinus nigra Arn. forests in the Dupki-Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve affected by fire were studied during the vegetation term of 2005. The fire occurred on 23 July 2003 and continued until 25 July 2003. The fire has also impact on the territory of the Razlog Forestry District (over 500 dka), as well as in the Pirin National Park. The average age of the damaged forests in the National Park is 100 years. The slope is 28-35º and the altitude varies from 1300 to 1350 m above see level. The soils are Distric-Eutric Cambisols, formed on marbalised limestone. The exposition of the studied slopes is north or north-east. 2. Methods of work The early-post fire changes in some components of the Pinus nigra Arn. ecosystems were studied. Three sample plots were set [Figure 1]: Damaged forests on the territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (Sample plot 1 (SP1) marked with B on the map) no human activities after the fire, first stages of the plant and microbial succession studied; natural processes in soils studied; Damaged forests on the territory of the Pirin NP outside the reserve (Sample plot 2 (SP2) marked with A on the map) the burned biomass logged and taken out of the Park; soil preparation made; restoration of the area; Pinus nigra Arn. saplings planted; studied components compared with the natural processes in SP1 Control plot (Sample plot 3 (SP3) marked with C on the map) same components studied in the control site, where the ecosystem has not been affected by fire. 6

Figure 2. Basic map of the study area, showing sample plots in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control site 7

Three soil profiles were set in the sample plots [see Appendix 1]. Soil samples from the 0-5 cm, 5-20 cm and 20-40 cm were taken. Three samples from the surface 0-5 cm soil layer were taken. Soil ph is measured using Radelkis ph-appliance in the water extract and in the CaCl 2 extract. The total N, using the Keldal method, is determined (on the Keltek automatic analyser). The total C, using the Tjurin method, is determined. The total Ca, K, Mg and Na are determined through decomposition with the King Water (HCl:HNO 3 =3:1) and mobile forms of the same elements in CH 3 COONH 4 extract (рн=7,00). Mobile forms of P, Ca, K, Mg and Na, as well as total Ca, K, Mg and Na are determined using atom-absorption spectrophotometer Perkin Elmer Analyzer 500. The total amount of the leaves layer, total N, total Ca, K, Mg and Na, as well as the ph of the leaves layer were determined. The microbial analyses were carried out according to standard methods (culture techniques see Appendix 2). The total amount and the composition of the heterotrophic block of soil microflora for the 0-5 cm and 5-20 cm soil layers were studied. The statistical processing of the results is made using Statistica and SPSS. In the discussion mainly average values will be given, but also will be indicated statistically proven hypothesises (t-test assuming equal variances). In the status report results of soil and microbial studies will be given as, the statistic processing will be made using, and will be enclosed in the Final Report. Post-fire changes of the vegetation and the early post-fire succession was studied in the SP1 and SP2 and compared to not-affected SP3. Floristic and phytocenotic characteristic of the study area was made. Sixty descriptions of microphyticenosis in the three sample plot were made. The area for descriptions in the forest communities is 300 m 2 and in the communities, affected by the fire 200 m 2. The floristic composition is determined by walking all over the studied plant communities. The total projection cover of the vegetation is determined and the participation of the cenopopulations of the different species is evaluated using the projection cover indicator of the over-ground parts of the plants, calculated as percentages of the studied territory. The scale of Braun Blaunquet for grouping and abundance [51, 61] is used to characterise the distribution of the individuals from the same species. The principal basis for the project implementation is the Braun-Blanquet approach for the classification of vegetation [7, 11]. Standard techniques for geobotanical description of vegetation plots are used [11]. For interpretation of the data on plant communities of the studied region the software SYN-TAXA is used. For the cluster dendrograms the index of Horn is used. Flora Europaea is used for the nomenclature of the plant species [51, 54]. The burnt area was mapped by Code Phase Trekking of the Global Positioning System [66]. Maps were elaborated: GIS different layers with basic information about the burnt area and related to the zoning of the BR. For the elaboration of maps are used ArcGis and already existing maps and data [1, 68, 63, 72, 65]. 8

Results and discussion Background Forest fires are episode factor, affecting structure and functioning of the ecosystems. Fires are part of the natural processes, as well as result of purposive or unintentional human activities [5]. The rate of change of soil properties and soil microbocenosis depends on fire intensity, season, vegetation type and the amount of burnt organic matter, climatic conditions before the fire, soil type ext. [58, 2]. These parameters strongly vary, which determines the different impact of fires on chemical soil properties. Most researches on low to middle intensive fires show increase of mobile forms of nutrients [9, 26, 37]. Some authors, who have studied the impact of high intensity fires, give data about the loss of nutrients through evaporation, transportation of formed ashes or wash out [9, 21]. As a result of burning out the leaves layer, tree and shrub vegetation the amount and composition of the material, assuring the incoming of nutrients in soil as well as the mechanisms of their distribution are changed. Usually the initial effect of fires leads to decrease in total microflora, often followed by its increase [62]. The restoration of the composition and structure organisation of the microbocenosis takes 2-3 years [38, 43]. Some authors consider the impact of fires on the forest communities could be characterised as catastrophic [28, 50], whereas others emphasise that wildfires are neither initially destructive nor constructive, but simply cause change [60]. On the one hand population dynamics of plant species, spatial patterns and compositions of plant communities, as well as the species diversity is changed after burning, but on the other hand plants respond to burning in a different way and there are lots of examples for adaptations and evolutionary mechanisms as a results of fire occurrence [5, 48]. Fires are a disturbance factor in ecosystems and they cause secondary successions [13]. In Europe wildfires happen every year in all types of forests and many forest ecosystems are adapted to low frequency fires. However, during the last decade due to human activities forest fires occur in higher frequencies than they used to and most fires are damaging where they burn out of control [17]. The tendency in Bulgaria is similar. While in the end of the nineteenth and the beginning of the twentieth century 3000 hectares were burnt on average per year, until the middle of the twentieth century about 1600-1800 ha and during the 50s and 60s of last century 800-1000 ha per year, whereas during the last years the territory of burnt areas rapidly increased. For the period of three years (1999-2001) 113400 ha forests were damaged by fire (around 3.9% of the whole territory of the country). The analysis of the preconditions, reasons and factors leads to the conclusion that Bulgaria is joining the Mediterranean region with traditionally high risk of forest fires according to the parameters of the risk of fires on its territory [29, 22, 14]. The aim of the current research is to study early post-fire effect on the natural Pinus nigra Arn. forest in Dupki-Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve (Bulgaria) determining the floristic composition 9

and phytocenosis studies in burnt area; studying changes of functional and structure organisation of soil microorganisms, as well as studying some physical and chemical properties of soils after fires; the same studies were made in not-affected areas control plots. General characteristic of the burnt area The studies are made 2 years after the fire. The main parameters, representing the range of the fire, are presented in Table 1. Total burnt area is 805.66 dka and 89.9 per cent of the affected by fire territory falls into the Razlog Forestry District. Table 1. Basic information about the burnt area in the Pirin Mt. Indicator Measure Value Burnt area within the Pirin NP (outside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR ) dka 33.15 Burnt area within the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR dka 48.37 Burnt area within the Pirin NP dka 81.52 Burnt area within the Razlog Forestry District dka 724.14 Total burnt area dka 805.66 Circumference of the burnt area m 4891.5 Circumference of the burnt area in the Pirin NP m 1015.11 Circumference of the burnt area the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR m 1210.43 Altitudes in the burnt area range from 1105 to 1326 m above see level. The average altitude of the whole territory, which was affected by fire, is about 1166 m above see level. [Table 2]. The range of variation within the Pirin NP is not big enough to result in changing environmental conditions of the territory. The map, which shows the variation of altitudes of the burned area, is presented in Appendix 3. Table 2. Distribution of the territory of the study area by elevations (m above see level) Object Min Max Range Mean Std Median Burnt Area (as a whole) 1105 1326 221 1166.32 41.79 1156 Burnt area within the Pirin NP 1188 1273 85 1241.76 19.45 1246 (outside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR ) Burnt area within the Doupki- Djindjiritza BR 1208 1326 118 1267.57 30.36 1264 The predominant part of the whole burnt area is of shadowed exposure more than 90 per cent. The territory, damaged by fire, which falls into the Pirin NP, is situated on northern, north-eastern or north-western slopes of the mountain [Figure 3]. The map of the distribution of the territory of the study area by exposure of the terrain is presented in Appendix 4. 10

3 2 3 2 1 1 1 North North-West 3 North-East 2 1 1 2 East Flat 3 Figure 3. Distribution of the territory of the study area by exposure of the terrain 1: Burnt Area (as a whole) 2: Burnt area within the Pirin NP (outside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR ) 3: Burnt area within the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR In order to analyse the study area by inclination, a 5-degree scale is used to classify the slope of the terrain: Flat 0-5º Sloping 6-10º Inclining 11-20º Steep 21-30º Very Steep above 31º The steepest terrains in the burnt area are within the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR and could be classified as inclining. Some parts are flat; this is mainly in the Razlog Forestry District. The range of variation for the whole burnt area totals in 16.72º [Table 3] The map of the distribution of the territory of the study area by exposure of the terrain (slopes in %) is presented in Appendix 5. 11

Table 3. Distribution of the territory of the study area by inclination, (slope in Degrees) Object Min Max Range Mean Std Burnt Area (as a whole) 0.02 16.72 16.72 2.75 3.37 Burnt area within the Pirin NP 1.91 13.52 11.61 6.81 2.95 (outside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR ) Burnt area within the Doupki- Djindjiritza BR 5.16 16.72 11.57 10.40 2.98 Microbiological studies The amount and the composition of the soil microflora differ in the fire-affected and non-burnt areas [Table 4]. Although in the SP1 there is not a certain change in the number of the total microflora in comparison with the control site. However, there is a certain change in the distribution of the different groups of micro organisms. There is an interesting trend of development of the micro organisms in depth in SP2, which could be as a result of the soil preparation in this area. The total amount of micro organisms in the 5-20 cm soil layer increases up to 3.7 times in SP2. Table 4. Amount and characteristic of soil microflora in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites (10 3 /g dry soil) Object Sample plot 1 burnt area /reserve/ Sample plot2 burnt area Pirin NP /outside reserve/ Sample plot 3 control reserve /not burnt/ Depth, cm 0-5 5-20 0-5 5-20 0-5 5-20 11 811 1 909 16 212 533 Ammonifying bacteria 13 451 275 6 538 655 5 818 206 Bacilli 596 272 985 378 1 425 108 7987±2164 360±65 4766±1154 992±479 8212±4832 309±84 Total microflora 22 034 660 Actinomycetes Micromycetes 588 25 507 262 2 182 18 Bacteria, assimilating N2 31464±12730 798±73 6706±2262 1120±223 23727±9539 1244±203 Mineralisation coefficient Note: The data related to the groups of micro organisms, which are studied in component groups, is given only as average values. 2.34 2.90 1.03 1.71 4.07 6.04 The species diversity of the baccilar microflora [Figure 4] shows that the best development conditions for the 0-5 soil layer are in the control site, whereas their development is limited in the soils affected by the fire. 12

1200 1000 800 600 400 SP1 SP2 SP3 200 0 B. mycoides B. megaterium B. cereus Figure 4. Species diversity and average amount of the baccilar microflora in the 0-5 cm soil layer in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites (10 3 /g dry soil) The best development, respectively the best contribution to the regeneration processes is observed for the species Bac. cereus, Bac. megaterium and B. mycoides, which are wide-spread in forest soils. The spreading of the other species is limited B. isoides is found only in the 5-20 cm soil layer of the control site and B. subtilis is not found in the studied areas. The pigment forming bacteria has a peak quantity of these micro organisms in the soils affected by the fire [Figure 5]. The chromogenesis could be considered as a way of adaptation and defence mechanism of micro organisms against stress events [52]. 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 SP1 SP2 SP3 0-5 cm 5-20 cm Figure 5. Average amount of pigment forming bacteria in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites (10 3 /g dry soil) 13

Soil studies The results of the soil analysis of the fire-affected area show that there are differences in the chemical indicators and properties in comparison with the control site. Figure 6 shows the soil ph in the study area. There is an increase for the surface 0-5 cm soil layer in the both sites affected by fire in comparison with the non-burnt areas. The increase in the 0-5 cm soil layer in the SP1 amounts up to 0.44. Mälkönen and Levula (1996) assume that the rate of change in soil ph and the speed of reaching the values before the fire depend on the composition, amount and ratio of ash elements, cation exchange capacity of the soil and the composition of the organic rests. The T-test: Two Sample Assuming Equal Variances (α=0.05) shows that there is statistically proved difference between the mean values of the ph in the fire affected and non-burnt sites. 8 7.8 7.6 7.4 7.2 SP1 SP2 SP3 7 6.8 0-5 cm 5-20 cm 20-40 cm Figure 6. Soil ph in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites There is a close relationship among big amounts of cations, formed after the burning of the organic matter, soil ph, as well as other physical and chemical properties of the soil [37, 58]. The amount of total and mobile forms of Mg, Ca, K and Na are presented in Table 5. Table 5. Amount of Mg, Ca, K and Na (total (T) and mobile (M) forms) in fire-affected Pinus nigra Arn. forests and not-burnt control sites, mg/kg Object Depth, cm Mg Ca K Na Forms of the elements T M % T M % T M % T M % Sample plot 1 0-536208.3 911.7 2.5 74850.0 9676.7 12.8 200.0 180.0 90.0 1958.3 33.3 1.7 P. nigra burnt 5-2067250.0 1185.0 1.8 150450.0 5400.0 3.6 75.0 75.0 100 975.0 20.0 2.1 /reserve/ 20-4075000.0 740.0 1.0 172800.0 3750.0 2.2 100.0 55.0 55.0 675.0 30.0 4.4 Sample plot2 0-540083.3 1063.3 2.7 94666.7 10280.0 12.8 225.0 175.0 77.8 1783.3 28.3 1.6 P. nigra burnt 5-2049500.0 1450.0 2.9 107800.0 9570.0 8.9 100.0 50.0 50.0 1525.0 30.0 2.0 /outside reserve/ 20-4076125.0 460.0 0.6 184550.0 3060.0 1.7 50.0 35.0 70.0 475.0 20.0 4.2 0-543916.7 1883.3 4.3 92483.3 9278.3 10.0 150.0 126.7 84.5 1191.7 35.0 2.9 Sample plot 3 control 5-2069500.0 855.0 1.2 162550.0 4220.0 2.6 100.0 50.0 50.0 675.0 20.0 3.0 /not burnt/ 20-4078375.0 390.0 0.5 186650.0 2375.0 1.3 50.0 25.0 50.0 325.0 20.0 6.2 14

There is a small decrease in the total amount of Mg and Ca in the 0-5 cm soil layer in fireaffected plots in comparison with the control site. Macadam (1989) research shows that during the fire the loss of these two elements in the atmosphere is insignificant due to the fact that they become volatile if the temperature is very high (1100-1900ºС). The mobile forms of Mg in relation to the total in the fire-damaged areas decrease in the 0-5 cm soil layer, but increase in depth probably due to transportation from the upper layer. There is a similar trend of increasing values in depth of Ca mobile forms in relation to the total in the fire-affected plots. The biggest increase of mobile forms in relation to the total as a result of the fire is determined for K in the SP1. Results of other authors [59] show the similar trends in changes caused by forest fires increase of mobile K and decrease of mobile Mg. there is a decrease in the amount of mobile forms of Ca in relation to Mg in the burnt areas in the surface 0-5 cm soil layer and in depth. Results of content of C and total N, respectively presented on Figure 7 and Figure 8, show that 2 years after the fire there are differences between values in burnt areas and control site. The content of C and total N in the surface 0-5 cm in the control site exceeds values of the same elements on the fire-affected areas. There is the opposite trend in depth an increase of C and total N in burnt areas in comparison with the control site. This trend is probably due to the transportation of the elements in depth. 10 8 6 4 2 0 0-5 cm 5-20 cm 20-40 cm SP1 SP2 SP3 Figure 7. Amount of С (%) in fire-affected and not-burnt site 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0 0-5 cm 5-20 cm 20-40 cm SP1 SP2 SP3 Figure 8. Amount of total N (%)in fire-affected and not-burnt site 15

Some authors explain the increased content of C after the fire with the redistribution of the soil colloids with high content of C from the ash layer in depth, as a result of downgrade water flow or isoelectronic precipitation of hamates, formed during the burning processes [59]. Boring et al. (1990) indicate that the increased content of total N is in connection with the processes of biological decomposition and nitrification, which increase the non-organic N week and months after the fire, as well as the N-fixing processes. Plant communities studies The Austrian pine (Pinus nigra Arn.) communities, which cover the lowest part of the Pirin NP and are situated mainly in the northern part (Bayuvi Dupki Park Region). The Austrian pine is typical calciphyte and is growing well on limestone terrain. The species forms mesoxerophylous communities, pure in most cases, but Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and Bosnian Pine (Pinus heldreichii), rarely Silver fir (Abies alba Mill.), participate as co-edificators. The herbaceous layer in the Austrian pine communities consists of relatively drought resistant species, like Festuca dalmatica (Hack.) K.Richt., Brachypodium pinnatum (L.) P.Beauv. and some others [12]. Post-fire changes in vegetation and the early post-fire succession was studied in the SP1 and SP2 and compared to not-affected P. nigra Arn. forests in SP3. Twenty descriptions of microphyticenosis were made in each sample plot. There are a number of factors, which pattern the post-fire regeneration and recruitment of species. On the one hand Austrian pine is non-sprouter and has extremely flammable needles. And on the other hand intensive fires in conifer forests could favour recruitment of species, which require a mineral seedbed for germination. However, it is still far less know about assembly rules and what determines coexistence and species richness in fire-prone communities [5, 13]. The floristic composition of the fire-affected forest in the National park inside the Doupki- Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve is presented in Table 6. The floristic composition 2 years after the fire includes 120 species, which belong to 36 families and 92 different genera. The family represented by the biggest number of species is Asteraceae (32 species), followed by Fabaceae (12 species) and Rosaceae (8 species). The richest in species Genus is Campanula (5 species), followed by Trifolium, Galium and Hieracium (4 species) and Cirsium, Epilobium and Euphorbia (3 species). Here no human activities after the fire were undertaken. The processes in the ecosystem go in a natural way. 16

Table 6. Floristic composition of fire-affected P. nigra Arn. forest in the Dupki-Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve (SP1) Plant species Plant floor Abundancy Constancy Abies alba Mill. C +-1 V Acer hyrcanum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. C r-+ II Acer pseudoplatanus L. C r-+ I Acinos alpinus (L.) Moench C r-+ II Ajuga laxmannii (L.) Benth. C +-1 I Ajuga reptans L. C +-2m IV Anthyllis vulneraria L. C +-2a I Arabis sagittata (Bertol.) DC. C r-+ I Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng. C r-1 IV Aremonia agrimonoides (L.) DC. C r-1 IV Asperula aristata L.f. C r-+ V Atropa bella-donna L. C + I Brachypodium pinnatum (L.) P.Beauv. C 1-2b V Calamagrostis arundinacea (L.) Roth C +-1 V Campanula glomerata L. C +-2m III Campanula persicifolia L. C +-1 IV Campanula rapunculoides L. C 1-2a V Campanula sparsa Friv. C 1 I Campanula velebitica Borbás C + I Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik. C r-+ I Carduus acanthoides L. C r-+ II Carex pallescens L. C +-1 III Carlina vulgaris L. C r I Centaurea triumfetti ssp.pirinensis (Degen, Urum.& H. Wagner) Dostal C +-1 III Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich. C r-1 IV Chamaecytisus absinthoides (Janka) Kuzm. C 1-2m V Chenopodium album L. C r I Chenopodium virgatum (L.) Ambrosi, non Thunb. C +-1 II Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. C r-1 II Cirsium ligulare Boiss. C r-+ III Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. C r-1 IV Clematis recta L. C +-1 I Coronilla varia L. C 1-2m V Crepis setosa Haller f. C r-+ IV Cruciata glabra (L.) Ehrend. C + I Digitalis grandiflora Mill. C +-1 II Epilobium angustifolium L. C 2a-3 V 17

Epilobium hirsutum L. C + I Epilobium montanum L. C +-1 V Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser C r-+ IV Erigeron canadensis L. C r-2m V Euphorbia amygdaloides L. C +-2m V Euphorbia barrelieri Savi C +-1 II Euphorbia cyparissias L. C +-2m II Fagus sylvatica L. C + II Ferulago sylvatica (Besser) Rchb. C +-2m IV Fragaria vesca L. C +-1 II Fraxinus excelsior L. C +-1 IV Galium anisophyllon Vill. C +-1 II Galium aparine L. C r-+ I Galium heldreichii Halácsy C r-1 IV Galium lucidum All. C +-2m V Geranium robertianum L. C r-+ IV Geranium sanguineum L. C +-1 V Geum urbanum L. C r I Helianthemum nummularium (L.) Mill. C +-1 V Hieracium heldreichii s. l. C +-1 V Hieracium hoppeanum C + I Hieracium nemorum gr. C +-2m II Hieracium schmidtii gr. C + I Hypochoeris maculata L. C r-2m III Hypochoeris radicata L. C +-1 II Iberis saxatilis L. C 1 I Inula hirta L. C + I Juniperus communis L. C r I Knautia arvensis (L.) Coult. C r-+ I Lactuca saligna L. C + II Lactuca serriola L. C r-1 II Leontodon crispus Vill. C r-1 I Lilium martagon L. C r-1 IV Linaria genistifolia (L.) Mill. C r I Linum catharticum L. C r-1 I Logfia arvensis (L.) Holub C r-1 IV Matricaria trichophylla (Boiss.) Boiss. C + I Medicago lupulina L. C r-1 II Medicago sativa L. C r I Minuartia setaceae (Thuill.) Hayek C +-1 III Moehringia pendula (Waldst. & Kit.) Fenzl C +-2a III 18

Moehringia trinervia (L.) Clairv. C +-1 III Mycelis muralis (L.) Dumort. C +-1 V Myosotis cyanea Boiss. & Heldr. ex Halácsy C r I Origanum vulgare L. C r-1 II Physospermum cornubiense (L.) DC. C r-1 I Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. C r-+ II Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold C 1-2m V Plantago major L. C r I Poa pratensis L. C r I Polygonatum odoratum (Mill.) Druce C 1 I Populus tremula L. C +-1 III Potentilla micrantha Ramond ex DC. C r I Primula officinalis (L.) Hill C r I Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn C 1-2m V Pyrola chlorantha Sw. C r-+ I Pyrus pyraster Burgsd. C r I Rosa pendulina L. C +-1 V Rubus idaeus L. C +-1 II Rubus saxatilis L. C 1-2m IV Salix caprea L. C +-1 IV Scorzonera rosea Waldst. & Kit. C 1-2m V Senecio nemorensis L. C r-+ II Senecio sylvaticus L. C r-1 III Silene ciliata Pourr. C r-1 IV Silene vulgaris (Moench) Garcke C + I Solidago virgaurea L. C r-+ I Sonchus asper (L.) Hill C r-+ I Sonchus oleraceus L. C 1-2m V Sorbus aucuparia L. C r-+ II Stellaria media (L.) Vill. C r I Tanacetum corymbosum (L.) Sch.Bip. C r-1 III Taraxacum officinale Weber C r-+ III Teucrium chamaedrys L. C +-2m IV Trifolium alpestre L. C +-2m III Trifolium arvense L. C + I Trifolium medium L. C +-2m IV Trifolium repens L. C + I Tussilago farfara L. C +-1 V Verbascum abietinum Borbás C r I Verbascum longifolium Ten. C r I Veronica officinalis L. C r-+ I 19

Viola riviniana Rchb. C +-2m V Mosses D 2m V The floristic composition of the fire-affected P. nigra Arn. forest in the National park outside the Dupki-Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve is presented in Table 7. The floristic composition 2 years after the fire includes 97 species (7.4% from the plant species in the Pirin NP), which belong to 38 families and 81 different genera. On the first place (the same as in the control site) with the biggest number of species in the community is Asteraceae (19 species), fallowed by Fabaceae (7 species) and Caryophyllaceae (6 species). Genus Galium is represented by 4 species, Campanula, Hieracium and Epilobium with 3 species. Restoration activities were undertaken on the territory of the affected by fire area in the Pirin NP, outside the reserve. The charred wood was logged and removed from the area during the summer period of 2004. The soil preparation (terraces) on 2/3 of the territory was made in the late autumn (2004) and 1/3 in the early spring of 2005. The planting of 2-year old seedling of P. nigra Arn. (the origin is from the area, i.e. the seedlings have the same ecotype as the Austrian pine in the region) was made in the period 19.04-25.04.2005. Three cultivations were made in 2005. This probably affected to some extant some physical and chemical characteristics of the soils, but also plant communities, regarding number of species and abundance. Table 7. Floristic composition of fire-affected P. nigra Arn. forest in the Pirin NP, outside Dupki-Djinjiritza Biosphere Reserve (SP2) Plant species Plant floor Abundancy Constancy Abies alba Mill. C r-+ I Acer hyrcanum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. C r-+ I Acer pseudoplatanus L. C r-+ I Acinos alpinus (L.) Moench C + I Ajuga laxmannii (L.) Benth. C + I Anthyllis vulneraria L. C 1 I Arabis sagittata (Bertol.) DC. C r I Arabis turrita L. C r I Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng. C +-1 III Aremonia agrimonoides (L.) DC. C r-1 II Asperula aristata L.f. C 1 I Atropa bella-donna L. C + I Brachypodium pinnatum (L.) P.Beauv. C +-2m V Calamagrostis arundinacea (L.) Roth C r-1 IV Campanula glomerata L. C + I Campanula persicifolia L. C +-1 III Campanula rapunculoides L. C +-2m V Centaurea triumfetti ssp.pirinensis (Degen, Urum.& H. C +-1 IV 20

Wagner) Dostal Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich. C r I Chamaecytisus absinthoides (Janka) Kuzm. C +-2m V Chenopodium album L. C r-+ II Chenopodium virgatum (L.) Ambrosi, non Thunb. C r-+ II Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. C r-+ I Cirsium ligulare Boiss. C r-+ II Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. C r-+ II Clematis recta L. C r I Convolvulus arvensis L. C r I Cornus sanguinea L. C r I Coronilla varia L. C +-1 V Crepis setosa Haller f. C r I Dianthus petraeus Waldst. & Kit. C r I Digitalis grandiflora Mill. C r-+ III Epilobium angustifolium L. C 2m-2a V Epilobium hirsutum L. C + I Epilobium montanum L. C +-1 III Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser C r-1 IV Erigeron canadensis L. C r I Euphorbia amygdaloides L. C +-1 V Euphorbia barrelieri Savi C r I Fagus sylvatica L. C r-1 II Ferulago sylvatica (Besser) Rchb. C +-2m V Festuca penzesii (Acht.) Markgr.-Dann. C r-1 I Fragaria vesca L. C +-1 I Fraxinus excelsior L. C r-+ II Galium anisophyllon Vill. C +-1 IV Galium heldreichii Halácsy C +-1 III Galium lucidum All. C +-1 IV Galium rotundifolium L. C + I Geranium robertianum L. C +-1 I Geranium sanguineum L. C +-2m V Helianthemum nummularium (L.) Mill. C +-1 II Hieracium heldreichii s. l. C +-1 V Hieracium nemorum gr. C r-+ II Hieracium schmidtii gr. C r-+ I Hypochoeris maculata L. C + I Kernera saxatilis (L.) Rchb. C r I Knautia arvensis (L.) Coult. C r-+ II Lactuca serriola L. C r-+ I 21

Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. C 1 I Lilium martagon L. C r-+ III Linum catharticum L. C + I Logfia arvensis (L.) Holub C r I Lonicera xylosteum L C r-+ I Matricaria trichophylla (Boiss.) Boiss. C r-+ I Minuartia setaceae (Thuill.) Hayek C +-1 II Moehringia pendula (Waldst. & Kit.) Fenzl C +-1 IV Moehringia trinervia (L.) Clairv. C r-1 IV Mycelis muralis (L.) Dumort. C +-1 V Origanum vulgare L. C +-1 I Physospermum cornubiense (L.) DC. C r I Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold C 1-2m V Plantago lanceolata L. C r-+ I Plantago major L. C r I Polygala amarella Crantz C r I Populus tremula L. C r-+ II Primula officinalis (L.) Hill C r-+ I Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn C +-2m V Rosa pendulina L. C +-2m V Rubus saxatilis L. C 1-2m V Salix caprea L. C +-1 V Scabiosa triniifolia Friv. C r I Scorzonera rosea Waldst. & Kit. C +-2m V Sedum ochroleucum Chaix C + I Senecio sylvaticus L. C r I Silene ciliata Pourr. C +-1 II Silene vulgaris (Moench) Garcke C r-1 I Sonchus oleraceus L. C r-1 IV Tanacetum corymbosum (L.) Sch.Bip. C r I Taraxacum officinale Weber C + I Teucrium chamaedrys L. C +-1 IV Trifolium alpestre L. C +-1 III Trifolium medium L. C +-2m IV Tussilago farfara L. C r-1 II Verbascum abietinum Borbás C r I Veronica chamaedrys L. C r-1 I Veronica urticifolia Jacq. C 1 I Viola riviniana Rchb. C +-2m V Mosses D +-2m V 22

The described communities (Table 4 and 5) are formed as a result of the disturbance factor. They represent first stages of fire-caused secondary succession and have different structure and belong to another syntaxon Festuco-Brometea Br.-Bl. Et R. Tx. in Br.-Bl. 1949. The floristic composition of the described non-affected forest (control site) is presented in Table 8. The described plant community belongs to Erico-Pinetea Horvat 1959 vegetation Class. The floristic composition includes 96 species, which belong to 35 families and 79 different genera. This is 7.3 per cent from the species, which occur in the Pirin NP. The families, which are represented with the biggest number of species, are Asteraceae (15 species), followed by Rosaceae (10 species) and Apiaceae (6) and Lamiaceae (6). Genus Hieracium is represented by 5 species, Campanula with 4 species, Euphorbia and Trifolium with 3 species. The community has a complex vertical structure with diaglostical for the floor of trees Pinus nigra Arn. Table 8. Floristic composition of control site non-burnt P. nigra Arn. forests (SP3), Doupki-Djindjiritza BR Plant species Plant floor Abundancy Constancy Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold A1 3-4 V Fagus sylvatica L. A1 r-3 I Fraxinus excelsior L. A1 + I Acer hyrcanum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. A2 + I Fagus sylvatica L. A2 r-3 IV Fraxinus excelsior L. A2 r-+ II Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. A2 r-+ I Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold A2 r-2a IV Abies alba Mill. B1 r-2a IV Acer hyrcanum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. B1 r-+ III Fagus sylvatica L. B1 r-2a IV Fraxinus excelsior L. B1 r-1 IV Juniperus communis L. B1 r-+ II Lonicera xylosteum L B1 + I Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. B1 + I Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold B1 r-1 III Abies alba Mill. B2 +-1 V Acer hyrcanum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. B2 +-1 IV Chamaecytisus absinthoides (Janka) Kuzm. B2 r-+ I Corylus avellana L. B2 r-+ I Fagus sylvatica L. B2 r-+ II Fraxinus excelsior L. B2 +-1 I Juniperus communis L. B2 +-1 III Lonicera xylosteum L B2 r-+ IV Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. B2 +-2a II Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold B2 r-1 III Pinus peuce Griseb. B2 r-+ I Sorbus aucuparia L. B2 + I Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz B2 + I Abies alba Mill. C +-1 II 23

Acer hyrcanum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. C +-1 V Acer pseudoplatanus L. C r I Acinos alpinus (L.) Moench C + I Ajuga reptans L. C +-1 IV Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng. C +-1 IV Aremonia agrimonoides (L.) DC. C +-1 IV Asperula aristata L.f. C +-2m V Brachypodium pinnatum (L.) P.Beauv. C 2b I Brachypodium sylvaticum (Huds.) P.Beauv. C 2a-3 V Calamagrostis arundinacea (L.) Roth C +-2m V Campanula glomerata L. C +-1 IV Campanula persicifolia L. C r-1 V Campanula rapunculoides L. C r-2m IV Campanula sparsa Friv. C 1 I Carex pallescens L. C + I Centaurea triumfetti ssp.pirinensis (Degen, Urum.& H. Wagner) Dostal C +-1 IV Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich. C +-1 V Chamaecytisus absinthoides (Janka) Kuzm. C +-1 IV Cirsium ligulare Boiss. C r I Clematis recta L. C r-1 II Coronilla varia L. C +-1 IV Corylus avellana L. C r-1 III Cotoneaster integerrimus Medik. C +-2m II Cruciata glabra (L.) Ehrend. C +-1 III Dactylorhiza incarnata (L.) Soó C r I Daphne cneorum L. C 1 I Dianthus petraeus Waldst. & Kit. C r I Digitalis grandiflora Mill. C +-1 III Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser C +-1 I Erigeron canadensis L. C + I Euphorbia amygdaloides L. C 1-2m V Euphorbia barrelieri Savi C +-1 I Euphorbia cyparissias L. C +-1 IV Fagus sylvatica L. C r-1 III Ferulago sylvatica (Besser) Rchb. C r-1 III Festuca penzesii (Acht.) Markgr.-Dann. C 1-2m V Fragaria vesca L. C 1-2m V Fraxinus excelsior L. C +-1 III Galium anisophyllon Vill. C 1-2m IV Geranium sanguineum L. C +-2m V Helianthemum nummularium (L.) Mill. C + II Hieracium cymosum C 1 I Hieracium heldreichii s. l. C +-2m V Hieracium nemorum gr. C 2m-2a V Hieracium schmidtii gr. C + I Hypericum perforatum L. C + I Hypochoeris maculata L. C r-1 IV Hypochoeris radicata L. C +-1 III Juniperus communis L. C +-1 V Knautia arvensis (L.) Coult. C r I 24

Laserpitium siler L. C r-+ II Lilium martagon L. C +-1 IV Linum catharticum L. C +-1 IV Lonicera xylosteum L C + I Luzula sylvatica (Huds.) Gaudin C 1 I Melittis melissophyllum L. C + I Minuartia setaceae (Thuill.) Hayek C r I Moehringia pendula (Waldst. & Kit.) Fenzl C 1 I Monotropa hypopitys L. C r-+ II Myosotis cyanea Boiss. & Heldr. ex Halácsy C + I Neottia nidus-avis (L.) Rich. C r-+ II Origanum vulgare L. C 1-2m V Physospermum cornubiense (L.) DC. C +-1 I Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. C r-2a III Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold C r-1 IV Pinus peuce Griseb. C r-+ I Polygala amarella Crantz C 1 I Polygonatum odoratum (Mill.) Druce C +-1 II Primula officinalis (L.) Hill C +-2m IV Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn C +-2a IV Pyrola chlorantha Sw. C +-1 III Pyrus pyraster Burgsd. C 2m I Rhinanthus rumelicus Velen. C r-+ II Rosa pendulina L. C 1-2m V Rubus idaeus L. C 2m V Rubus saxatilis L. C 1-2a V Sanicula europaea L. C r I Scabiosa triniifolia Friv. C r-1 IV Scorzonera rosea Waldst. & Kit. C +-1 V Sedum ochroleucum Chaix C + I Senecio sylvaticus L. C 1 I Solidago virgaurea L. C +-2m IV Sorbus aucuparia L. C r-1 II Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz C r I Stachys recta L. C r I Tanacetum corymbosum (L.) Sch.Bip. C +-2m IV Teucrium chamaedrys L. C +-2m IV Trifolium alpestre L. C 1-2m V Trifolium arvense L. C 1 I Trifolium medium L. C +-2m IV Viola riviniana Rchb. C 1-2m IV Mosses D 2a-3 V However, beside the fact the vertical structure in the ecosystem is totally changed after the fire actually the studied post-fire communities and non-affected Austrian pine forests have much in common. The cluster analysis differentiates two basic syntaxons, marked as A and B. In the frame of the syntaxon A could be determined four sub-clusters (A1, A2, A3, A4) with high level of floristic similarity and homogeneity. The syntaxon B includes plant communities with 25

dominant species Pinus nigra Arn. and syntaxon A includes plant communities as a result of secondary succession of the communities in cluster B [Figure 9]. A1 A2 A3 A4 B Figure 9. Classification dendrogram Figure 9 presents ordination graph, where the arrangement of the plant communities in disperse diagram is in accordance with the floristic similarity. The formation of the groups here is similar to the clusters and sub-clusters in the classification dendrogram. 26

Figure 10. Ordination diagram 27

FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF A TRANSITION AREA OF DOUPKI-DJINDJIRITZA BIOSPHERE RESERVE Background A determination of feasibility involves an evaluation of the resource in the context of natural systems, as well as other factors necessary to ensure long-term protection and to accommodate public use. Important issues include size and configuration, land ownership, current and potential uses, as well as cultural and historical heritage, environmental threats, and public interest etc. [8]. Since the beginning of MAB Programme in the early 1970s, it is directed towards an interdisciplinary research agenda and capacity building aiming at improving the relationship of people with their environment on a world scale. In practice the main instrument is the biosphere reserve concept, which was launched in 1974. With time, this concept evolved and was substantially revised in 1995 with the adoption by the UNESCO General Conference of the Statutory Framework and the Seville Strategy for Biosphere Reserves. MAB uses its World Network of Biosphere Reserves as tools for sharing knowledge, research and monitoring, education and training, as well as community involvement into decision-making process [57,56 77]. Each BR should be organised in three interrelated elements: one or more core areas, clearly identified buffer zone and transition area. Transition area of the BR corresponds to the development function. It should be flexible and assure the co-operation of all stakeholders to cope with daily management situations. Information and different educational activities should be directed towards ensuring population living in transition area supports the biosphere reserve and whenever benefit from it. Another crucial issue related to transition area of the BR is sustainable use of the natural resources, i.e. in a way and rate that does not lead to a long-term decline of biodiversity. Special efforts will be necessary to preserve traditions, local cultural events and customs, as well as traditional practices for land use. Management objectives of the biosphere reserve should be clear and serve to integration of the BR in regional planning. Socio-economical dimensions are also of great importance [18, 24, 77]. However, all Bulgarian biosphere reserves are designated in the very first years after initiating the idea of the BR. Therefore they do not have proper zonation, as well as do not meet contemporary vision of organisation and functioning of the BRs. According to PAA Bulgarian BR are strict or maintained reserves and actually are in conformity with a core zone of the BRs. Hence, BRs in Bulgaria could be considered to a great extent as conservation sites. Some of them are situated inside bigger PAs such as National or Nature Parks [Table 9], which could play the role of a buffer zone. It should be emphasised that none of Bulgarian BRs have transition areas. Furthermore, their territory is not big enough to fulfil strategic gaols and objectives in accordance with the Seville Strategy. For instance, German MAB National Committee has elaborated own 28

national criteria for recognition and auditing of biosphere reserves. According to these Criteria for Designation and Evaluation of Biosphere Reserves BRs should, as a rule, comprise at least 30 000 ha and not more than 150 000 ha [24]. In Switzerland the recommended area of the BR is from 20 000 to 100 000 ha [76]. In France the areas of the BRs vary from 13110 ha to 323000 ha [58]. Table 9. General information about Biosphere Reserves in Bulgaria Biosphere reserve Year of approval Area, ha Situated inside other PA Steneto 1977 3578.80 Central Balkan NP Alibotouch 1977 1628.00 - Bistrishko Branishte 1977 1061.60 Vitosha Nature Park Boatin 1977 1597.20 Central Balkan NP Djendema 1977 4220.20 Central Balkan NP Doupkata 1977 1210.80 - Doupki-Djinjiritza 1977 2873.00 Pirin NP Kamtchia 1977 842.10 - Koupena 1977 1761.10 - Mantaritza 1977 1069.20 - Ouzounboudjak 1977 2529.60 Strandja Nature Park Parangalitza 1977 1509.00 Rila NP Srebarna 1977 902.10 - Tchervenata stena 1977 3029.00 - Tchouprene 1977 1439.20 - Tsaritchina 1977 3418.70 Central Balkan NP Such old generation BRs have not accomplished requirements of international guidelines of the Seville Strategy yet. Extension and proper zoning are critical factors for future refining of Bulgarian BRs. However, I would like to put stress on the fact that there is governmental support and will to revise the BRs in Bulgaria. National Working Group for BRs is already formed and representatives of Bulgarian MAB National Committee participate in it. Despite the fact Bulgarian BRs do not coincide with the idea to reconcile economic and development, as well as environmental protection through a partnership between people and nature, their international status is considered as an advantage in a number of strategic publications [19, 32, 35, 36]. During the implementation of the project different stages of Feasibility study for establishment of a transition area of Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve were accomplished. The process of work included interdisciplinary approach implemented by the medium of various practical instruments existing data and literature in connection with socio-economical parameters, inventory of natural and cultural recourses, field research, meetings and discussions with stakeholders and consultants, SWOT analysis, elaborated zonation, defining steps for establishment of transition area. As a result of the study the suggested option is creation of a BR, including the whole Pirin Mt. and adjacent municipalities. In the report for facility sake s it will 29

be called Pirin BR, whereas if such is to be established it should be renamed because it also includes parts of some other small mountains. Due to the fact that initial idea was to study the opportunities for establishment of a transition area of Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve, a special part of the study is Razlog Municipality. There are several key reasons for this on the one hand over 80 per cent of the territory of the Doupki-Djindjritza BR falls within the Razlog municipality. And on the other hand due to the topography of the relief actually the anthropogenic impact on the strict reserve is related mainly to human activities of population of the Razlog Municipality. Therefore the Municipality of Razlog will be used as a main body for the fusibility study. However, one should consider that similar analysis have to be made for all municipalities adjacent to the Pirin NP. Legal status of Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve Bayuvi dupki was declared a reserve by a Governmental Decree 1388/29.01.1934 of the Ministry of Agriculture also the state property. It is actually the first attempt to preserve the biological diversity within the ecosystems in the Prirn Mt. In 1977 the Bayuvi dupki reserve was included in the list of the biosphere reserves of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme. The territories of The Bayuvi dupki and Malka Dzindziritza reserves were enlarged and formed one reserve Bayuvi dupki-dzindziritza with a total area of 2873 ha by an Order 976/26.12.1979 of the Nature Protection Committee of the Council of Ministers [12, Błąd! Nie moŝna odnaleźć źródła odwołania.]. Doupki-Djindjritza Biosphere Reserve should not be separated from the other attempts for integral protection of the Pirin Mt. Forestry Board of the Council of Ministers declared Vihren People s Park with an area of 6736 ha (Order 3074/ 08. 11.1962). Later it was renamed as Pirin People s Park and enraged in area (in 1974 the area is 26413.8 ha; in 1976 the total area is 26479.8 ha; 12639 ha are included in 1987). By an Order 395/15.10.1999 of the Minister of Environment and Water Pirin People s Park was recategorised as a National Park according paragraph 2 of the Transitory and concluding regulations of the PAA [39]. The youngest reserve on the territory of the Pirin Mt., which is a part of the Park, is Julen with an area of 3156,2 ha (designated by an Order RD- 223/26.08.1994) [40, 67]. Two more strict reserves aim at preserving typical for the Pirin Mt. ecosystems. A part of Tisata Reserve, situated on the lower western parts of the mountains, is declared in 1949 (Governmental Decree 6663/05.12.1949) with the purpose of conservation of the only one compact location of Juniperus excelsa Bieb. and Mediterranean communities. In the southern part of the Pirin Mountains is Oreljak Reserve with total area of 758.10 ha. It is established in 1985 (Order RD 129/22.02.1985) in order to maintains High Valuable Beech Forests [12, 67]. Field research Biosphere Reserves state of general knowledge among the population of Razlog Municipality Name: Biosphere reserves 30

Research issue: The practical experience shows that population of the Municipality of Razlog does not benefit from the economic and social advantages, provided by BRs Subject of study: State of knowledge about specificities of the BRs, as well as opportunities for sustainable development together with environmental protection, which they ensure Object of study: Population of Razlog Municipality Aims of the study: Determining attitude of the population towards traditions and tradition forms of using nature resources, as well as the opportunity for reconcilement of economical development and nature conservation. Specifying the level of knowledge about BRs in Bulgaria and in the vicinity of Razlog Municipality, as well as regarding basic concept of BRs. Drawing out the key gaps of information amongst the population in respect of BRs. This might serve as a starting point in a future information campaign. Main research questions: What is general opinion in respect of potentialities for professional realisation in Bulgaria? What is the level of use of natural resources in a traditional way on the territory of the municipality? What is the degree of preservation of traditions in the municipality and in the country as a whole? Have the citizens ever heard about BRs? Which about (in the country and in the vicinity of the municipality)? Are the functions of the BRs known? Do people know what the objectives of the BRs are? What is the opinion about reconciling economical development and environmental protection? Should the general public participate more actively in the decision-making process regarding future of the country? Research hypothesis: Relatively high will be the rate of information about existence of the BRs, whereas not that high regarding their functions, organisation etc. Well-educated people and people, which work has access to information concerning BRs (including public administration, administration of the Pirin NP etc.) will have higher level of acquaintance with the issue. 31

The lack of information will be the crucial factor for the absence of personal interest and contribution for conservation of the unique biodiversity in combination with searching for opportunities that will assure economical growth by the medium of using biodiversity and its components in a sustainable way. Methodology of data collection: Questionnaire survey, which includes open and closed questions. A part of the questions are dichotomous (interviewed people could answer only in two possible ways yes or no), polytomous (interviewed people could use only one of the possible answers) and questions, which have more than one true answer. The inquiry is indirect survey, i.e. the questions are asked and the questionnaire form is fulfilled by the interviewer not by the respondents. When determining citizens attitude, 5-degree scale is used: strongly agree, agree, neutral, disagree, and strongly disagree [9, 3]. Sampling frame: A random sample among people of age over 14 years, who belong to the general sample population of Razlog Municipality. The random sample will include people living in the town of Razlog, as well as in the villages. The size of the sample will include 250 citizens, which is 1.09 per cent from the total population in the municipality. This allows achieving relatively low % of standard error. Information proceeding: On the bases the information of questionnaires the conclusions about the level of acquaintance on behalf of the population of Razlog Municipality in respect of BRs will be made. Questionnaire form: The questionnaire form is included in Appendix 7. Schedule of the research: Stage Term Days Research preparation 15.09-15.10.2005 6 Field work 01.11-15.12.2005 8 Information proceeding, 15.01-20.02.2006 5 interpretation of the results Information analysis and interpretation of data obtained from the research Questions 1-6 provide information about the social profile of the random sample. Two hundred and fifty people were interviewed: 71.6% live in the town of Razlog and 28.4% in villages, situated in the territory of the Razlog Municipality. Females showed bigger interest in respect of the research 80.4% of all interviewed people were women. Another fact, which supports this assumption, is that all males between 14-19 years refused to participate in the research, which could be exlained by the specificities this group has regarding age psychology. The respondents are relatively smoothly distributed by age [Figure 11], whereas most of them have secondary 32

education (60.8%), 28% have higher education (16% have Bachelor of Degree and 12% have Master of Degree) and 11.2% are not well-educated (primary education). None of interviewed is Ph.D. About 70% of the respondents are working at the moment. However, only 8.4% of all interviewed declare they are satisfied with the potentialities for professional realisation in Bulgaria. Over 50% belong to the group of unsatisfied with the situation in the country, because of the poor social policy, unemployment, big level of corruption, not many opportunities for professional realisation (a great number of people do not work in a sphere respondent to their education) etc. 18.8 14.4 20.4 26.8 14-19 years 20-29 years 30-39 years 40-49 years over 50 years 19.6 Figure 11. Age structure of the respondents Almost 70% of respondents indicate that they do not deal with traditional forms of land use. However, the percentage of people who affirm they still use nature resources in a traditional way is relatively high (32%). Most of them (almost 80%) specify they use traditional agricultural practices; about 30% are occupied in traditional cattle-breeding whereas only few people mention they still use knowledge from past generation in the field of fruit-growing, viniculture and traditional use of medicine plants. A question at issue about preserved traditional practices for using nature resources in the Razlog Municipality is of great interest. Over 50% consider that to some extent people, living in the vicinity of Razlog still use resources in traditional way and only 5.6% think there are no such 33

preserved traditions. At the same time almost 70% agree or strongly agree that there is loss of traditions in Bulgaria. About 20% of respondents could not indicate spheres, where there are still alive traditions in the country. Folklore is put on the first place, considered alive tradition nowadays, by more than 50%. Furthermore people indicate customs, family traditions, handicrafts, education and community centres, and only few mention agriculture and architecture. Questions 11-15 are related to defining the rate of knowledge in respect of BRs. Most of the respondents (62.4%) have not ever heard about BRs (although more than 12% show some level of knowledge about BRs). Beside the fact 42.8% state they have some information about BRs in Bulgaria and 37.6% have heard about BRs in the vicinity of Razlog Municipalities, most of them indicate any type of PAs as a BRs. Respondents indicate some of existing BRs on the territory of the country Srebarna, Parangalitza, Doupki-Djindjiritza, Djendema, Alibotouch, but together with them also other types of protected areas Pirin Park, Central Balkan Park, Rila Park, Vitosha Park, Sokolna reserve, Roportamo reserve. Less than 10% gave Doupki-Djindjiritza as an example for a BR near Rarlog, but of them also mentioned Rila Park or Pirin Park. Actually only 1 respondent, working in the sphere of ecology and environmental protection, gives proper examples for BRs in Bulgaria and near the town of Razlog. However, Hypothesis 2, that welleducated people have higher level of acquaintance with the BRs, was supported by the results. About 40% of well-educated people are acquainted with the issue have some level of knowledge about BRs. However, most of respondents do not have clear idea about function and organisation of a BR. Most of people (2.8%) think that the BR is strictly protected area and about 14% do not have idea. Similar are the answers regarding question 15, when 58.8% consider that BR aims only at environmental protection. This is due to the word reserve, which in Bulgaria is connected with no human presence on the territory and a number of regulations. Last two questions concern the position of general public regarding two very important issues. The majority finds it possible to reconcile economical development with nature conservation (53.6% strongly agree and 26.8% agree). Over 80% respondents firmly state the general public should be more actively involved in the decision-making process in respect of socio-economical development in Bulgaria. However, it should be emphasised that society in the country is not active enough and generally do not think personal efforts could make any difference in local or regional level. The scale of this problem to some extent is also proven by this research more than 450 people refused to participate in the present sociological study. In conclusion, the obtained data as a result of the study is of great importance. It provides good bases regarding attitudes of the general public, living in the vicinity of the Doupki-Dzindjiritza BR. The study reveals that there are still alive traditions in the vicinity of Razlog, as well as traditional practices of land use. The level of knowledge about BRs is not satisfactory. Some of the respondents have information about the BRs, however none of them was really acquainted with the issue in details. 34

SWOT analysis - Establishment of Pirin BR The SWOT analysis was made by different groups of stakeholders and users in the region of the Pirin Mt. This situation analysis is actually generalised summary of the work in groups at the workshop Biosphere reserves on 11 December 2005 in Blagoevgrad. The SWOT analysis aims at defining regional specificities of the situation, as well as determines the key problems and challenges the process of establishment would come across. Received data is good information base for planning the process of establishment. Participants: National MAB Committee, Regional History Museum-Blagoevgrad, History Museum-Razlog, RIEW-Blagoevgrad, BD-Blagoevgrad, Dobarsko Association, Pirin NPD, Rila NPD, Trivlav NPD (Slovenia), Technological Centre-Razlog, South-West University Neofit Rilski, Community Centre Sunrise village of Banichan, Community Centre Word village of Petrovo, Community Centre-Blagoevgrad, Asen Andreev Ltd., Primary School Miladinovi brothers, Fund for Wild Flora and Fauna, BBF, PTF, BSPB, local tourist offices, administration municipalities (Strumjani, Razlog, Kresna), Regional Agency for Economical Development-Blagoevgrad. Group 1: Strong sides High biological diversity and other resources Established core zones in the frame of existing PAs (strict reserves) and possibility for easy defining of the other two zones the buffer zone and the transition area Cultural and historical diversity (material and non-material: archaeological and architecture-ethnographical complexes, folklore, traditions and customs, cuisine) Built up image of Pirin Favourite Mountains of a great number of Bulgarians Pirin NP World Heritage Site of UNESCO Built up NPD with gained expert knowledge and practical experience Accepted Pirin NP Management plan, which includes a number of elements typical for a BR Gathered good scientific base and created programs for monitoring in the park Built up (building process is continuing at the moment) infrastructure for visitors in the Pirin NP Availability of working partnership structures organisations and institutions Built up partnerships for the Pirin Mt., including Consultative Committee and e-forum in 2006 Availability of human resources in the business circle for encouraging and supporting environmental friendly initiatives Existing attitudes accepting of already existing PA, i.e. the Pirin NP 35

Existence of supportive strategic documents as National Strategy for biodiversity protection Group 2: Weak side As a result of the aggressive marketing of the commissioner of the Bansko Ski Zone during the last two years an image of the Pirin Mt. only as a place for skiing have been created Poor popularisation of good practices (where they exist) for environmental-friendly and green businesses and initiatives in Bulgaria Inadequate involvement of some stakeholders in the partnership networks, and more precisely Forestry Districts and Game Breeding Stations, as well as the business as a whole Extremely bad condition of the refuges and huts in the Pirin Mt. Insufficient capacity of NPD to manage bigger territory, such as a BR Lack of Leader team, which will lead the process and lack of similar practical experience on behalf of stakeholders in the region Lack of national practices and examples for concluding such public agreements for management of PAs Lack of legislation base for management (including administrative management) of a BR Inconformity between the basic concept of the BR in accordance with the Seville Strategy and existing Bulgarian BR Conversance of the general public with the topic is not good Group 3: Opportunities Declared support (national, governmental) for enlarging the territory of PAs network in Bulgaria Declared will and support on behalf of UNESCO and National MAB Committee for putting into practice the principles of the Seville Strategy in Bulgaria Unoccupied business sectors in Bulgaria Market saturation of the mass tourism and reducing of its size Growing market demand for alternative forms of tourism Accelerated interest towards all kinds of biological production with high quality Bigger autonomy of Municipalities in Bulgaria, including financial independence Dynamic socio-economical conditions in the country an opportunity for new initiatives Joining of Bulgaria to the EU, which will reflect into rising the opportunities for financing the process of establishing BR and would guarantee bigger stability Presence of Programmes for trans-border co-operation with Greece and Macedonia 36

Group 4: Threats Occurrence of conflict of interests with business enterprises, which use nature resources from the territory Lack of interest of the general public towards establishment of BR on the territory of the Pirin Mt. Lack of financial resources for the process of establishment of Pirin BR Presence of grey economy, which will effect opportunities for creating trade marks of the BR Zoning of Pirin Biosphere Reserve In order to correspondent with the goals of the Seville Strategy, each biosphere reserve has to meet a number of criteria. However, the Statutory Framework on the World Network of Biosphere reserves is a non-binding instrument and every country is encouraged to elaborate and implement national criteria for biosphere reserves which take into account the special conditions of the State concerned [57]. Such criteria have not been elaborated in Bulgaria yet. In order to combine the three functions (conservation, development and logistic support), a BR should have specific physical organisation, i.e. appropriate zonation. A biosphere reserve is divided into three zones core zone, buffer zone and transition zone and the influence of human activities increases from zone to zone. The suggested system of zones in this study is an attempt to elaborate such appropriate zonation of a BR in Bulgaria, more precisely in the Pirin Mts. The Prirn Mountains have unique biodiversity and landscapes, as well as distinctive traditions and folklore. For the elaboration of the zonation a number of specificities have been taken into consideration the following key factors: natural topography of the region existing protected areas in the region with regard to the zonation of the BR municipalities as a base unit for information gathering socio-economical conditions cultural heritage and customs regional vision of sustainable development The Pirin Biosphere reserve includes the whole territory of the Pirin Mts. and the adjacent municipalities. There are actually several options regarding transition areas. Determining the transition area of a BR is a complex decision and its implementation in practice could be bottomup or top-down process and should involve all stakeholders. I would like to lay a stress on the fact that this zonation is only a project idea, which could be used as a base for future studies and projects. 37

The whole territory of the Pirin BR totals in 348435.7 ha: core zone (7572.8 ha), buffer zone (34304.2 ha) and transition area (306558.7 ha) [Figure 12]. 2.17 9.85 Core zone Buffer zone Transition area 87.98 Figure 12. Percentage distribution of the core zone, buffer zone and transition area in the Pirin BR The core zone assures long-term protection of natural ecosystems and biological diversity, as well as development of natural processes. It consists of strictly protected areas, according to PAA in Bulgaria reserves. The total area of the strictly protected core zone is 7572.8 ha. Reserves Major ecosystems Year of establishment Area, ha Doupki- Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce 1934 2873.0 Djindjiritza Griseb.) and Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii Christ) forests Julen Models of alpine and sub-alpine 1994 3156.2 ecosystems Oreljak High Value Conservation Beech 1985 758.1 (Fagus sylvatica L.) Forests Tisata The only one compact location of 1949 574.5 Juniperus excelsa Bieb. in Bulgaria, as well as Mediterranean communities Sokolata Hungarian oak Quercus frainetto Ten. 1985 211.0 forests Total 7572.8 38

The Buffer zone surrounds or is adjacent to the core zone. It is used only for activities compatible with the conservation objectives such as ecotourism, education, recreation and research. This zone in practice coincides with the territory of the Pirin NP (without the territories of the reserves). It is a huge asset, because the park has legal status and already accepted management plan with detailed zonation and regimes. The Transition area is an area of co-operation. It is flexible and aims at stimulating the sustainable development. This zone contains areas for agriculture and forestry, industry and trade, services, settlements and infrastructure facilities. Here all stakeholders and user groups should work together in order to manage and develop the resources of the area. The transition area includes the territory of the whole municipalities, adjacent to the Pirin NP. This includes 7 municipalities Razlog, Bansko, Gotse Delchev, Sandanski, Strumiani, Kresna and Simitli. The population, living in the transition area is 146 528 [63]. The Basic map of the zonation of Pirin BR is presented in Figure 13. 39

Figure 13. Zonation of the Pirin Bioshere Reserve 40

Socio-economic patterns in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality Background After introducing currency board in the 1997 in Bulgaria 1, the economy is characterised with macro economical stability the inflation is at low rate (except for 2001 and 2003 it is about 5 per cent annually). Although slowly, GDP is gradually increasing not only as absolute value, but in practice about 5 per cent annually. GDP is considerably growing per capita regarding annual reducing the population in number 2. The main macro economical indicators are presented in Table 10. Table 10. Main macro economical indicators, characterising Bulgarian economy Indicators 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 GDP (million BGN) 29 709 32 335 34 547 38 275 41 948 GDP per capita (BGN) 3 754 4 109 4 416 4 885 5 420 Annual real rate of change (%) 4.1 4.9 4.5 5.7 5.5 Inflation (average for the period) (%) 7.4 5.8 2.3 6.1 5.0 Unemployed (thousand people) 662 603 501 451 397 Rate of unemployment (% of the labour force) 17.3 16.3 13.5 12.2 10.7 Average salary per month (BGN) 240 258 273 292 320 Export of goods and services (millions BGN) 16 510 17 180 18 500 22 192 25 506 Import of goods and services (millions BGN) 18 760 19 321 21 779 26 115 32 449 Trade balance (million BGN) -1 778.3-1 878.0-2 425.6-2 953.5-4 342.9 Trade balance (% of GDP) -11.7-11.4-13.7-15.1-20.2 Current account -855.2-402.5-972.3-1 131.3-2 427.0 Direct investments in Bulgaria 903.4 980.0 1 850.5 2 727.5 2 326.0 Direct investments in Bulgaria / deficit of current account (%) 105.6 243.5 190.3 241.1 95.8 Gross Public debt and Public quaranteed debt (millions ) 9 698.5 7 960.6 7 047.9 6 427.9 5 172.5 Gross Public debt and Public quaranteed debt (% of GDP) 63.8 48.2 39.9 32.8 24.1 Floating debt /Gross state debt (%) 9.1 14.1 14.3 21.0 25.4 Source: Bulgarian National Bank (http://www.bnb.bg) As a result of macro economic stabilisation the inflation in the country (although quite big changeability) has one numbered rates. The economical growth and active state policy for assuring work load is the key reason for limitation of unemployment (10.7 per cent for 2005). This rate is better in comparison with the average for the new EU (13.4 per cent for 2005) and little bit higher than the average rate in the old members (7.9% per cent for 2005)[15]. 1 At the moment the national currency is fixed at rate 1.95583 BGN = 1 2 Except for the intensive emigration (about 700 000 Bulgarians left the country in the period 1990-2006), Bulgaria differs with aging population and low birth-rate 41

However, the economy conditions in Bulgaria also have some disadvantages. The increase of the salary in the country is extremely slow and this leads to difficulties for economical growth due to limited consumption. Another serious problem, which goes deeper and deeper, is the gradually increasing negative trade balance. It reached 20 per cent of GDP in 2005. That is why funds in the form of payments for goods and services go out of the country. This tendency leads to even bigger effects due to the fact that the country acquits periodical payments of the external debt. Another proof is that beside the increasing direct investments, actually the size of the deficit of the current account is worsening. At the same time beside the fact the size of the debt is decreasing, the ratio shortterm/gross state debt is actually increasing, respectively the acqiuttance payments are relatively low. In conclusion, economic situation in Bulgaria is characterised with the following specificities: 1) Macro economical stability, which to some extent stimulates economical acceleration and growth. 2) High rate of grey economy (different evaluations indicate over 35 per cent), which twists the competition in the country and leads to difficulties regarding recruitment of needed financial resources for conducting adequate state policy. 3) Active state policy in the last years towards reducing the income taxes (from 2005 to 15 per cent, and from 01.01.2007 to 10 per cent) and insurance taxes (with 6% from 2006, and another one in the next year is under discussion) with a view to stimulating economic growth, as well as decreasing the rate of grey economy. 4) Some problems, mainly in relation to the negative trade balance, go deeper. This might reflect on the future economical development in a negative way. The economic situation in the Bansko and Razlog Municipalities deffers with a number of specificities: 1) High dependence of the economy of the tourist sector beside the rapid increase in number of the tourist flow during the last years, respectively grouth of the income from tourist activities, the population comes across the problem related to seasonal dependence. The winter season is much more active and the tourist flow is not sdeady distributed. 2) Comparatively active development of the services in the tourist sector. 3) Poor development of the other economic sectors, which limits the possibilities for siustainable development in the region. 42

Population and demographic characteristics in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality Ranking the seven municipalities according to the total index of human development is between 11 for Gotse Delchev and 94 for Strumiani in a total of 262 municipalities in Bulgaria. The lowest position of Strumiani is due to the lower, in comparison to the other 6 municipalities, life expectancy, lower literacy rate, lower GDP per capita, and the presence of Roma population [12]. The greatest share of Roma population has Razlog 5.2%, lowest is in Kresna 0.8%. The greatest amount of Turk population is concentrated in Gotse Delchev 22.5%. The population in the region of Pirin continuously decreases, due to aging and migration processes. Six from the seven municipalities, except for Gotse Delchev municipality, adjacent to the park have negative population growth. The mechanical movement of the population has negative value in most of the settlements. The strongest emigration stream is from Strumiani municipality (131). The mechanical movement relates more to towns rather than villages [72]. The basic socio-economic indicators are presented in Table 11. Municipality Table 11. Basic socio-economical indicators in the Transition area GDP per capita, 1999 (BGN) Average rate of unemployment, 2001 (%) Unemployment, average for the period 2000-2003 (%) Total tax income/citizen Active enterprises/ 1000 citizens Bansko 4775 12.68 10.08 63.4 78.2 Razlog 4941 18.30 12.48 51.3 73.9 Gotse Delchev 5928 11.42 11.28 65.2 71.0 Sandanski 5410 9.00 7.60 64.4 92.1 Strumiani 4473 19.01 15.16 19.9 48.9 Kresna 4280 11.50 9.6 43.3 66.9 Simitli 5500 14.48 13.17 56.2 46.2 Source: National Statistic Institute - http://www.nsi.bg/ The population density 3 in the Transition area is presented in Figure 14. The most populated territories are the Municipalities of Razlog and Gotse Delchev, whereas in Strumiani there are only 0.18 citizens per 1 ha. 3 Citizen Registration and Administrative Services in Bulgaria - http://www.grao.bg/ 43

Figure 14. Population density is the Transition area of the Pirin BR, number of people/ha 44

Razlog Municipality is situated in Southwestern Bulgaria, in Razlog valley at average 900 m above see level, at the foot of the three Mountains Pirin, Rila and Rodopi [34]. 22842 people live on territory of 44031.4 ha, a bit over 50 per cent of them are women [Table 12]. Table 12. Dynamics of population number in Razlog Municipality Population 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2006 number Total 20631 22218 21866 21783 21562 21646 22842 Males 10235 11001 10873-10725 10724 - Females 10396 11217 10933-10927 10922 - In towns 12864 12915 12614-12515 - - In villages 7767 9303 9252-9047 - - Source: National Statistic Institute Seven villages (Banja, Bachevo, Godlevo, Gorno Draglishte, Dolno Draglishte, Dobarsko and Eleshnitza) and the town of Razlog (Municipality Centre) are situated on the territory of Razlog Municipality. People, who live there are direct or indirect users of natural resources of the region. The population density in the Razlog Municipality is 59.06 people/km 2, which is lower in comparison with the average for the country (71.8 people/km 2 ). The level of urbanization (people, living in towns and cities) is 57.7%, which is higher than the average for the Blagoevgrad District (56.6%) and lower than the average for the country (69.0%). The dynamics of population number is in general better in comparison with the value for the country the annual decrease in number is 0.26%, whereas this indicator for Bulgaria is 0.69%. Economical active population is 60.6%. In general the age structure is satisfactory the percentage of the young people in capable of working is higher than this for the country. On the territory of Bulgaria have been living different ethnical groups with numerical superiority of the Bulgarians. After the last census in 2001, Bulgarian ethnical group totals in 6 660 682, i.e. 83.5 per cent of the whole population in the country. The people, who are living in Razlog Municipality at the moment, belong to two ethnical groups Bulgarians, Roma and Turks. The percentage of the Roma is 5.2 per cent, which is above average for the country. Turks are 0.1 per cent of the whole population in Razlog Municipality. However, in the region are not indicated any cases of conflicts on the bases of ethnological differences [41, 45, 72]. 45

Resource uses in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality Forests and woodland cover almost 70 per cent of the whole territory of Pirin BR. The agricultural land totals in 28184.5, i.e. 8.09 per cent. The natural grasslands cover 9.46 per cent of the area. The industrial and commercial units together with complex cultivation patterns and infrastructure are less than 2 per cent of the area [Table 13]. Table 13. Distribution of Resources in Pirin Biosphere Reserve Land unit Area, ha Area, % Agriculture with natural vegetation 28184.5 8.09 Bare rocks 2014.5 0.58 Broad-leaved forest 69557.8 19.96 Complex cultivation patterns 3939.9 1.13 Coniferous forest 75948.8 21.80 Discontinuous urban fabric 4646.8 1.33 Dump sites 29.5 0.01 Fruit trees and berry plantations 323.1 0.09 Industrial or commercial units 686.0 0.20 Mineral extraction sites 465.2 0.13 Mixed forest 43302.2 12.43 Moors and heathland 8642.6 2.48 Natural grasslands 32974.9 9.46 Non-irrigated arable land 20382.3 5.85 Sparsely vegetated areas 7398.0 2.12 Sport and leisure facilities 104.7 0.03 Transitional woodland/shrub 44155.9 12.67 Vineyards 5561.3 1.60 Water bodies 47.1 0.01 Water courses 70.7 0.02 Total 348435.7 100.00 The map of the distribution of Resources in Pirin Biosphere Reserve is presented in Figure 15. 46

Figure 15. Distribution of Resources in Pirin Biosphere Reserve 47

The key sectors, which have immediate effect to the direct usage of the nature, are hunting, fishing, agriculture, forestry, wood industry, building industry and tourism. There are positive, as well as negative examples regarding sustainable use of resources in the region of Pirin Mts. However, I will emphasise on one of the precedent, which is Bansko Ski Zone. There were a number of веьжьв violations during the project implementation. The ski slopes this lead to major environmental problems in the region: erosion at a big scale, biodiversity loss, overloading the territory with tourists, mass and unregulated building industry in the region of Bansko etc. 4 Bansko Ski Zone project put a big challenge in respect of the sustainable development and environmental protection in the whole region of the Pirin Mts. Industry In Razlog Municipality the economical crises in Bulgaria in 1990s lead to critically reducing the industrial sector. However, the restructuring of the economy is successful. The active companies in 2003 are 2 247 and their number in comparison with 2003 increased 47 per cent. The production firms in the municipality have activities related to wood-proceeding, furniture manufacture, food industry, tailoring industry, building industry, electronics and machinebuilding. Agriculture There are 16495.6 ha managed land in Razlog Municipality, including 8102.8 ha agricultural land, 6444.9 ha common pastures and 1947.9 meadows. The main crop is tobacco, followed by maize and potatoes. There are 380 registered produces of tobacco in the municipality. During the last years the tradition of cultivating crops, which consist ethereal oils. Most of the people crop vegetables in order to satisfy their own needs. The share of farming is increasing in comparison with last ten years. Among preferred animals for breeding in the municipality are sheep, cattle, goats, pigs and poultry. The main problems with the agriculture and livestock breeding is fragmentariness of the workable land, old equipment and lack of financial resources. 4 http://www.bluelink.net/savepirin/ 48

Forestry Forests are actually a key resource in Razlog Municipality. They cover 25759.2 ha or over 50 per cent of the whole territory. However, the territory most of the forests falls within Pirin NP and Rila NP and some of the forests have special and recreation functions, the possibility for logging is limited. It should be emphasised on the fact that although the illegal logging on the territory of the municipality have been limited it is still a major environmental problem in the region. Tourism Razlog Municipality has great potentialities for development of the tourist sector and especially nature oriented tourism. In some regions there is already good infrastructure, tourist routs. Dobarsko village is an example how local communities could initiate preservation of cultural sites, as well as stimulation of ecotourism and village tourism. In September 2006 started implementation of the project SPA Centre for recreation in Bania village. On the other hand on the territory of Razlog Municipality there is a project for Golf playground in progress. This also may have serious impact on the region, supporting mass tourism at a huge scale. It have already dragged rapid building in the area. Cultural resources in the transition area of the Pirin BR, with special regard to Razlog Municipality People, who are living in the region of the Pirin Mts., are inheritors of ancient culture and traditions. The archeological finds demonstrate that these territories were populated ever since the Neolit. However, ethnological groups from this early history is still a mystery. Later on the in the Bronze Age and Iron Age Thracians inhabited the area. Other important historical events are the influence of the Rome Empire (IV-VI century), occurrence of Slav Tribes (VI-VII century) and Han Krum overtakes Serdika (806) Proto-Bulgarians started settling in this area. The history of the area is very dynamic with complex demographic processes. This is mainly due to the geographical position on the crossroad [25]. The Pirin Mts. and adjacent territories have diverse inheritance from different times, civilizations and religions. Some traditions are still alive, as well as the distinctive folklore and customs. Traditional non-material culture of the region is notable for the sustainable cattle-breeding and agricultural practices for centuries. The architecture, reaching its zenith During the Revival Period of Bulgarian history, is particularly interesting and stunning. It is worth mentioning Trinity Church in Bansko, The Assu Church in Bansko, Rozhen Monastery, Culturalhistorical reserve Melnik, St. Nikola Church in Melnik, Korpodulova House, as well as a number of architecture ensembles in the vicinity of the town of Gotse Delchev, Kresna and Sandanski. The examples of archeological site, which demonstrate the complex history of the area, are numerous. The Razlog Municipality also differs with preserved cultural monuments and traditions [12, 27, 25]: 49

1. Archeological sites Temple sanctuary of the Sun in the Stolovatets area 2400 before Christ Temple sanctuary of Bendida in the Babjak village one of the most precious cult site of the Thracians Early Christian basilica St. Iliaja dating form V-VI centuries The period of the Bulgarian Middle Ages presented by a number of churches in Razlog, Godlevo, Bachevo Muslim culture represented in the form of Turkish Public Baths in Razlog and Bania. 2. Churches 7 churches are designated as cultural monuments St. George Church in Bania Village (1835) St. George Church in Razlog (1834) The Assu Church in Godlevo St. Dimitrius Church in Dolno Draglishte The Virgin Mary Church in Dolno Draglishte XVI century Candlemas Church in Dobarsko (1860) St. Teodor Tiron and Teodor Stratilat Church in Dobarsko (1614). Included in the UNESCO s World heritage list. 3. Traditional festivals and customs The most attractive holiday, which is still alive is the celebration of New Years Eve. It is related to two colouring and typical Bulgarian celebrations Surva and Kukeri. The custom Surva is performed in the early morning on the first of January by small children, so called survakari. They go form house to house and hit the people livinh there with survachki (decorated cornel-tree branches) and at the same time wishing health, fruitfulness and good luck for the new year. In return they receive small gifts, little rolls of bread and walnuts. The custom Kukeri has heathen origin and it is performed by kukeri young single men dress in special costumes made of goat fir and outstanding hat (higher than 1 m and usually ending with horse tail. Other important players are young single men and women, who dress in authentic costumes and dance typical circle dances. Kukeri move in groups and guard the dances. They carry out special rituals in order to chase the evil forces and assuring health and rich crop. The custom Voditsi is connected with celebration of the St. Jordan s Day. On the 6 January around 10 o clock the holiday starts with solemn liturgy. After that the local community head towards the river. The water is sanctified and the priest throws the Holy Cross into the river and not married men jump into the freezing water to search for it. After taking it out the group go from house to house sprinkling the people with the 50

sanctified water for heath and fruitfulness. In return they get presents. The event continues with dances until late evening. Granny s Day is connected with throwing water on the granny (maternity nurse) in express of gratitude that she delivered the baby. After the official performance of the ceremony, a special ring dance starts. It is so called Grannies dance and is danced by the old women with their small grandchildren. This customs could be seen each year in the Centre of Razlog on 21 January. Baba Marta is typical Bulgarian custom. Martenitsi are made of white and red threads. They have the strength of the Sun and bring vitality to every living creature. Therefore On the first day of March people tie martenici on their hands, as well as to all animals in the house. People have them until they se the first white stork. There are also other alive customs and religious celebrations, such as Proshki (Sirnitsa or Amkata), the St. Todor s Day, Easter, Celebrating of St. George s Day is connected with the custom Soaking of the flowers ext. A special event, related to the traditional Pirin Folklore is the festival Pirin sings. It is organized every two years in the Predel region. It is one of the biggest folk art events in Bulgaria. 4. Traditional handicrafts Making different woven products as fleecy rug and carpets is very popular even nowadays on the territory of the whole municipality. The tradition is alive particularly in the villages, where almost in every house there is a loom. Rising public awareness for nature conservation In the process of work a number of activities contributed to popularisation of the contemporary concept of the BR, as well as the importance of active stand regarding nature conservation. In the context of accelerating economy and transition period, which characterise Bulgaria the most, such activities are of great importance. Despite the fact that there are plenty of good examples in respect of preserving environment in Bulgaria, most of the bad examples tend to happen due to the lack of information and knowledge of the local communities, as well as lack of consciousness and awareness towards responsible use of nature resources. One of the main ways for rising responsibility and awareness of the society towards problems of environmental protection is by the medium of information campaign. In order to reach not only key specialists, but also as many people from the local communities as possible, it is necessary to develop effective campaign such as a multi-dimensional effort toward nature conservation and sustainable development. 51

The key activities in connection with ensuring a strong level of public awareness, understanding and support, as well as expected results, long-term effects and indicators, are presented in Table 14: Table 14. Logical framework of the project activities related to rising public awareness for nature conservation Activities Expected results Effect Indicator Information materials about BR, as well as about fires as a natural factor and major human tool for changing environment Meetings, workshops, presentations Exhibition Fire and people Media campaign for popularisation activities in the frame of the project Assuring tools for more effective environmental education in the vicinity of the Pirin Mt. Better informing of the stakeholders about the BR concept. Ideas about implementing some of the good examples from functioning BR adopted. Partnerships among stakeholders developed. Informing different decision makers about importance of fire and contemporary concepts in fire management. Raising awareness of general public about forest fires. Raised acquaintance of the general public with project activities, as well as its goal and objectives Long-term support for Leaflet about BR the environmental printed in 1500 copies. education in the region of Leaflet about the forest the Pirin Mt. fires printed in 2000 copies. Gained knowledge and better competence of all stakeholders about modern concepts in managing protected areas. Necessary trends towards involvement and bringing together different use groups and stakeholders stimulated. Raised capacity for environmental education in the vicinity of the Pirin Mt. and better understanding in respect of forest fires. Raised awareness for preserving nature recourses and biodiversity, as well as and responsibility regarding their sustainable use. 50 informal and formal meetings, 1 workshop (with co-operation of BBF) carried out. 4 different presentations elaborated. More than 70 key stakeholders acquainted with the BR concept. 6 posters discussing fires in cultural and social aspect, as well as the role in natural ecosystems and its destructive power if used by humans not in compliance with natural processes. 2 posters representing plant communities before the fire and after the fire in the Doupki- Djindjiritza BR. 7 publications about the project, including in the web space (3 under preparation). More than 20 announcements on the radio, local cable TV (Channel Pirin). 52

Information materials A leaflet was designed and printed during the implementation of the project. It is under the title Biosphere reserves. The challenge Preserving nature resources-sustainable development (see Appendix 8). The leaflet presents the concept of BRs in accordance with the Seville Strategy, as well as the key principles of the ecosystem approach. It also includes information about the history of the BR and the situation with BR in Bulgaria at the moment. It gives key advantages for establishment of real functioning BR on the territory of the Pirin Mt. There are 1500 printed copies; 400 spread only on the territory of the Munisipality of Razlog during the interviews; 1000 spread on the territory of all Municipalities, adjoining the Pirin NP (Similti, Kresna, Strumiani, Sandanski, Gotse Delchev, Bansko) during the initiative Days of Pirin Mt. (15-22.07.2006). Meetings, workshops, presentations In the process of project implementation over 50 informal and formal meetings were held in order to discuss the opportunities for establishing Biosphere Reserve in the vicinity of the Pirin Mountains. As a result of some of them I participated in a workshop Protected territories and possibilities for local economic development, which took place in Blagoevgrad (9-10 December 2005). The workshop was organised by Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation. The Entlebuch Biosphere Reserve (Switzerland) was presented as a wonderful example for sustainable development and preserving nature resources. More than 10 representatives of different stakeholders groups in the vicinity of the Pirin NP attended this workshop. As a result of a number of work meetings and good colleague relationships with the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation and Pirin Tourist Forum a seminar with stakeholders in the vicinity of the Pirin NP was organised (see Appendix 9). I have presented the general idea of the biosphere reserves according to Seville Strategy and the example from the Entlebuch Biosphere Reserve. The seminar took place on 11 December 2005. Martin Solar, a representative of the Triglav NP Administration, presented the process of establishing Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve. This example is much more suitable for Bulgaria, and especially for the Pirin Mt. The meeting was attended by 25 stakeholders (representatives of Administration of the Rila and the Pirin NPs, RIEW-Blagoevgrad, Universities, NGO s, local tourist offices, municipalities, different educational centres, small businesses ext.). The secretary 53

of the Bulgarian National Committee of MAB Vladimir Vladimirov participated in the workshop and with a great willingness helped participants to understand better the contemporary conception of the Biosphere Reserves. There was a broad discussion on the possibilities of establishing a working biosphere reserve in the area of the Pirin Mountains. SWOT analysis for Establishing Biosphere Reserve in the vicinity of the Pirin Mt. was made. As a result of the meeting a decision for future cooperation and joint work regarding establishment of a working Biosphere Reserve in the area of the Pirin Mt. as a tool for sustainable development was taken. Furthermore, I presented general concept of BR and gave practical examples from a number of European BR at two meetings with key stakeholders. First of them was the Constituent Assembly of the Consultative Committee of the Pirin NP. It was held on 06 April 2006 and in presence of almost all members of the Consultative Committee, official guests and media. It should be mentioned that on this meeting presented: Deputy Regional Governor Mayors of Blagoevgrad District Administration (Stanoycho Manov) or Vice Mayors of all 7 municipalities, adjacent to the Pirin NP, the Director and employees of the NP Administration (who are directly responsible for the management of the Doupki-Dzindjiritza Biosphere reserve), the Director of RIEW-Blagoevgrad, the Director of BD-Blagoevgrad, Chairman of the Regional Handicraft Chamber-Blagoevgrad, Chairman of the Regional Viticulturist-Wine Chamber-Sndanski, the Head of Regional Section Police -Blagoevgrad, SVS Bulgaria, as well as representatives of private companies, tourist organisations and Information Centres and NGOs, working in the region of the Pirin Mt. (BBF, PTF, BSPB, Association Dobarsko, Association Bulmontana, Association Technological Centre ). As a result key decision-makers in the region, who will be directly involved in the management of the NP, respectively Doupki-Dzindjiritza Biosphere reserve, gained new knowledge regarding opportunities for integrated and effective management of PAs. Biosphere Reserves were included as an issue for discussion in another meeting, which main purpose was preparation and planning the Days of the Pirin Mt. Experts and the director of the Pirin NPA, employees from all municipalities next the the Pirin NP, as well as representatives of NGOs (BBF, PTF, Association Dobarsko ) participated in two-days work meeting in Dobarsko (13-14 April 2006, village of Dobarsko). There was a broad discussion after presenting the basic concept of the BR. For further steps most of the people recommended presenting examples from practice. Therefore 3 different presentations about BRs in Europe were elaborated. Good practices and examples for open, evolving and adaptive management in Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve, Entlebuch Biosphere Reserve and Rhön Biosphere Reserve were included in the presentations. These presentations will be used in close future because they are already included in the schedule of the meeting in the frame of Partnetships for biodiversity: nature beyond conservation of BBF. 54

In conclusion during the implementation of the work more than 50 meetings, 1 workshop (with co-operation of BBF) were carried out; 4 different presentations elaborated. More than 70 key stakeholders were acquainted with the BR concept. In the process of project implementation Pirin NPA declared a special interest towards the project. Therefore a workshop with the Park Administration will be organised in close future where the results of the research related to impact of fires on forest ecosystems in the Doupki- Djindjiritza will be presented, together with the basic concept of BRs and examples of functioning BRs. Exhibition Fire and people and dominant species in these communities. The exhibition Fire and people presents the role of fire in culture-historical and social aspect, as well as aims at informing society about. The exhibition has 6 posters (size: 5 of them 1m x 1.30 m; 1 of them 0.7 x 1.0 m see Appendix 10-Appendix 15). Two other posters discuss the effects of the fire, which occur in the Pirin Mt. in 2003 and present plant communities before the fire and after the fire, as well as general information about indicator The exhibition was officially opened on 11 October 2006 in the Information Educational Centre of the Pirin NP (see Appendix 16). More than 50 students from Bansko and Razlog Municipalities, teachers, as well as different specialist attended the exhibition. It will stay in Bansko until 31 October 2006. Due to the great interest towards the exhibition during next few months it will visit not only the Razlog as it was planned but also all other municipalities, situated next to the Pirin Mt. There are also agreements with the leadership of Regional historical museum in Blagoevgrad, University of Forestry, Tourist and Conservation Centres in Bulgaria. The approximate number of people, who will visit the exhibition amounts at over 5,000. Media In the process of work media was used as a key instrument for lobbing and rising public awareness for nature conservation. There are seven publications about the project, including in the web space. Three of them, which will represent the results of scientific research about impact of fire on the forest ecosystem, are under preparation. An article about the basic concept of Biosphere Reserves was prepared for Happy weekend one of the most popular magazines about tourism in Bulgaria. Announcements about the exhibition Fire and people were published on some websites the 55

website of the Pirin NP [75], the Civil Environmental Gateway to Bulgaria [64] (see Appendix 17). The announcement about the exhibition was made also on some e-groups of the BSPB (bgforest and bgraptors, which have over 200 subscribers). The BRs were put as a topic for discussion on the e-forum of the website of the Pirin NP. More than 20 announcements on the regional radio (Blagoevgrad Radio, Bumerang Radio) and local cable TV (Channel Pirin) were made. Website An idea about creating website of the project occurred at the end of the project. The website is under construction at the moment. It aims at presenting results of the project, as well as publishing information about BR concept of the Seville Strategy. The website could be found at: http://knieja.net/unesco/ 56

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION In the globalising world it becomes harder and harder for the local communities to keep their identity, as well as indigenous knowledge and traditions. Nowadays, being in transition period of its country history Bulgaria is also facing loss of values, mass emigration, lack of interest about key issues in the world, low activity of the general public. Regarding environmental protection during the last decade Bulgaria became a country of contrasts. On the one hand on the territory of the country there is unique biodiversity and preserved natural ecosystems. And on the other hand there are major environmental problems and precedents such as Bansko Ski Zone, mass building along the Black See Coast, illegal logging, which might lead to total destruction of ecosystems and landscapes. Biosphere reserves are created in order to answer to the question How to combine environmental protection and sustainable development?. However, there are no formulas for putting into practice the vision of a BR. One is certain it is a non-binding instrument of the local communities and all users of resources and stakeholders should manage the territory in a sustainable way. Although Bulgaria has 16 accepted BRs, they are all from the old generation and do not demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans and biosphere. They are strict or maintained reserves according to the Bulgarian legislation. Bulgarian Government has declared willingness to revise the existing BRs and undertakes steps so that they could correspond to the contemporary BR concept. The establishment of a BR in the region of Pirin Mountains would be a great opportunity for tipping the balance and involving local population into the sustainable management of the area. The implemented project provided good bases for future research and continuing the work in this field. Some general conclusions and recommendations could be made: The process of establishment will be long and will probably last at least 10 years. The word reserve should not be used in the Bulgarian name of the BR. The sociological study showed that also the word park is not suitable. A combination of the bottom-up and top-down approaches should be used. A leader team or working group should be formed. The process of the establishment of the BR should be open. Beside the information campaigns, pilot project, which demonstrate in practice the BR concept, should be implemented. 57

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APPENDICES A1

Appendix 1. Pictures of the soil profiles in the sample plots Soil profile in the burnt P. nigra Arn. forest Soil profile in the burnt P. nigra Arn. forest on the territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR on territory of Pirin NP (outside the BR) (Sample plot 1) (Sample plot 2) Soil profile in the non-burnt P. nigra Arn. forest (Sample plot3) A2

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Appendix 2. Pictures of soil microorganisms, Laboratory of Microbilogy (University of Forestry Sofia) Soil microorganisms in the 0-5 soil layer, burnt P. nigra Arn. forest on the territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR Soil microorganisms in the 0-5 soil layer, non-burnt P. nigra Arn. forest on the territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR A4

Soil microorganisms in the 0-5 soil layer, burnt P. nigra Arn. forest on the territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR Soil microorganisms in the 0-5 soil layer, non-burnt P. nigra Arn. forest on the territory of the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR A5

Appendix 3. Distribution of the territory of the study area by elevations A6

Appendix 4. Distribution of the territory of the study area by exposure of the terrain A7

Appendix 5. Distribution of the territory of the study area by exposure of the terrain (slopes in %) A8

Appendix 6. Pictures of the study area, Pirin Mts General view of the burnt area, Pirin Mountains (September 2005) General view of the burnt area, Pirin Mountains (July 2005) A9

Burnt area within the Pirin NP, outside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) Burnt area within the Pirin NP, outside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) A10

Burnt area within the Pirin, inside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) Burnt area within the Pirin, inside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) A11

Burnt area within the Pirin, inside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) A12

Burnt area within the Pirin, inside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) Burnt area within the Pirin, inside the Doupki-Djindjiritza BR (July 2005) A13

Appendix 7. Questionnaire Form (Please tick the correct answer) 1. Please indicate your gender Male Female 2. Which of the following group best describes your age? 14-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 Over 50 3. Please indicate your degree of education Primary Secondary Bachelor Master Ph.D. 4. Please indicate name of the settlement where you live? 5. Are you working in the moment? Yes No If yes, please indicate the sphere of work. 6. Are you satisfied by the opportunities for work, which exist in Bulgaria? Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree Please specify. 7. Do you use traditional forms of using nature resources? Yes No If yes, please specify. 8. Do you think people use nature resources in a traditional way on the territory of Razlog Municipality? Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree 9. Do you think that there is loss of traditions in Bulgaria? Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree 10. Which are the spheres, where you see maintained Bulgarian traditions? 11. Have you ever heard about Biosphere Reserve? Yes No A14

12. Have you ever heard about Biosphere Reserves in Bulgaria? Yes No Please give examples: 13. Have you ever heard about Biosphere Reserves in the vicinity of Razlog Municipality? Yes No Please give examples: 14. According to you the Biosphere Reserve is: Strictly Protected Area Territory, where educational activities and trainings are implemented, as well as recreation and tourism. Territory, where the use of natural resources in a sustainable way is allowed. Territory, where the accent is on the economical development. Territory, where the efforts are directed towards fight against poverty. Do not know. 15. According to you the Biosphere Reserves aim at: Stimulation of economical and human development. Nature conservation Support of scientific studies, education and information exchange. All answers mentioned above. Do not know. 16. Do you think it is possible to combine economical development with nature protection? Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree 17. Do you think that society as a whole should participate more actively in the decision-making process regarding socio-economical development in Bulgaria? Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree A15

Appendix 8. Leaflet Biosphere reserves. The challenge Preserving nature resourcessustainable development A16

Appendix 9. Pictures from the seminar Biosphere reserves key instrument for integrated management of Protected Areas A17

Appendix 10. Poster 1 of the exhibition Fire and People A18

Appendix 11. Poster 2 of the exhibition Fire and People A19

Appendix 12. Poster 3 of the exhibition Fire and People A20

Appendix 13. Poster 4 of the exhibition Fire and People A21

Appendix 14. Poster 5 of the exhibition Fire and People A22

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Appendix 15. Poster 6 of the exhibition Fire and People A24

Appendix 16. Pictures from the opening of the Exhibition Fire and People in the Information Educational Centre of the Pirin NP, Bansko A25

Appendix 17. Internet publications Publication on Civil Environmental Gateway to Bulgaria Internet publication on the website of the Pirin NP A26

Appendix 18. Pirin people and mountains A27

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