West Stara Planina Activities Studies Socio-economic analysis The socio-economic assessment focused on: describing the situation in the region – demographics, economics, social trends, and ecological attitudes; and identifying future activities that would benefit the local communities through sustainable use of the available natural resources. A transboundary expert team was formed that developed a common methodology and conducted on-site interviews from February to July, 2002. REC project offices developed a database of stakeholders and relevant projects in the region. In addition, training for interviewers was organised in Serbia and Montenegro. The bilateral expert team presented the identified priorities for development in West Stara Planina (WSP) to the stakeholders’ forum “4+4 Municipalities.” The main characteristics of the region are a relatively aged population, progressive depopulation (due to the few opportunities for young people), jobs inadequate to qualifications, low incomes relative to the averages in the countries, and the still low but increasing use of natural resources for commercial purposes. Survey of water resources Water resource surveys were undertaken to collect baseline information and identify major problems/threats and priority areas concerning water resources in the region. The study was started in the beginning of June 2002 and finalised in March 2003 by a bilateral expert team. The survey shows that the water quality and ecological status of water in WSP are satisfactory. There are three transboundary rivers in the project area, which can be the basis of joint management actions. There is also potential for fisheries, fish farming and tourism, as well as for bottling spring water. Survey of forest practices The purpose of the activity was to collect baseline information on forest resources and their use, and to identify areas for future intervention in an integrated manner. The study was conducted from June 2002 to March 2003 by a bilateral expert team.The survey shows that forests on both sides are in good condition. In Bulgaria there are 20,000 hectares of highly valuable 100-year old beech forests. There are good conditions for collection, cultivation and processing of non-timber forest products (NTFP) as well as for bee-keeping. Biodiversity Database The purpose of this database, which is available from the project team upon request, is to create a joint Bulgarian-Serbian database of biodiversity in WSP, with lists of species and their conservation status. The database was developed between June, 2002, and March, 2003, by a bilateral expert team. Identification of priority habitats and species A bilateral expert team conducted a study on priority habitats and species, identifying habitats and species that are a priority for both countries, as well as threats and measures for their conservation. The study revealed favourable conditions for designating a nature park in Bulgaria, which was also expressed as a priority by all municipalities. As a result, an expert proposal for the designation of the park was submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Waters. The proposal was approved by the ministry and the procedure was initiated. Three transboundary priority territories were identified, along with more than 20 common priority species. The necessary measures were also identified, as were the target groups to work with in the future. The study was extremely valuable as a basis for synthesising and analysing information, and for forming a future strategic plan for the region. WSP was also recognized as an Important Plant Area. This survey was carried out within the framework of the REC’s Plants Along the Borders project. West Stara Planina digital maps Seven digital maps of the area were produced. They are: Topographical, geological, pedological, habitats, forest types and erosion, and a map of cultural, historical and natural attractions. The maps answer the demands expressed by local stakeholders for visual presentations of the issues important to them. They will enable better planning, problem solving and presentations, and serve as a basis for a future GIS system.

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