List of Appendixes List of Maps Abbreviations Glossary of Terminology. General Review. Elaboration of the Management Plan

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1 Legal bases for management plan adoption Authors Contents List of Appendixes List of Maps Abbreviations Glossary of Terminology Summary General Review Policy Elaboration of the Management Plan i iv v vi viii xiv xvii xviii хix Section I. Description General Description Location and Boundaries General Park Area Territorial Administrative Units Past Development and Management of the Park Organizational Structure and Administration of the Directorate Physical-Geographic Characteristics The Climate of Geological and Geomorphological Structure Hydrology Soils and Soil Processes Biotic Characteristics Habitat Diversity in the Park Plant Communities Characterization of the Forests Flora Medicinal Plants Macromycettes Fauna People and the National Park Park Uses Tourism and Visitor Profile Scientific Studies Nature Conservation Education and Public Awareness 60 Management Plan

2 ii 5.0 Infrastructure and Access to the Park Park Landscapes, Overlooks and Picturesque Qualities in the Regional Context Demographic Trends and Uses in Areas around the Park Industrial Impacts Cultural and Historical Heritage Recreation and Tourism Public Awareness and Attitudes toward the Park Partnerships in the Park Regional Development Issues and Central Balkan National Park Non-Governmental Organizations International Donor Support First Evaluation 85 Section II. Prescription 1.0 Goals and Long-Term Objectives Threats and Constraints Natural Threats Anthropogenic Threats Limitations Management Objectives Management of Natural Components Tourist Management Interpretation, Training and Education Partners and Local Communities Management Activities in the Park Zoning of Reserve Zone Human Impact Limitation Zone Tourism Zone Buildings and Facilities (Infrastructure Zone) Multi-Purpose Zone Programs and Projects Management of Natural Components Visitor Management Education and Interpretation Partners and Local Communities Functions and Activities of the Park Administration 154 Management Plan

3 iii 6.0 Three-Year Plan Review of Implementation of Tasks and Objectives Periodic Reviews and Revisions of the Management Plan Ten-Year Updating of the Management Plan Recommended Indicators for Assessing the Accomplishment of the Objectives 172 References 173 Management Plan

4 The Minister of Environment and Water /E. Maneva/ CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK Management Plan Adopted with Ruling 522 of the Council of Ministers, dated Draft, submitted by the ARD/BCEG in compliance with the Terms of Reference commissioned by the Ministry of Environment and Water, No , Sofia, Bulgaria This Management Plan, its development and publication, was made possible through support provided by the Office of Environment, Energy, and Social Transition, Bureau for Europe and Eurasia, United States Agency for International Development, under terms of Contract No. DHR-0039-C The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID.

5 Authors The main author of the Management Plan is Dr. Petar Iankov, who worked with the support of: The GEF Project Management Unit Dr. Ian Deshmuk, Dr. Peter Hetz, Mrs. Kamelia Georgieva and Dr. Marietta Sakalian; experts from the Directorate and teams of experts headed by: Mr. Dimitar Peev, Senior Research Associate IInd degree, Master of Biological Sciences, Dr. Hristo Delchev, Senior Research Associate, Dr. Zdravko Hubenov, Senior Research Associate, Dr. Peter Beron, Senior Research Associate, Mr. Geko Spiridonov, Research Associate, Ist degree, Dr. Nikolai Spassov, Mr. Gergin Blagoev MD, Mrs. Snezhana Kostadinova, Mr. Plamen Vulchev and Mrs. Marietta Stoimenova, DipEng, who contributed in the collection and analysis of information.

6 iv List of Appendixes 1. Order on the Re-Categorization of Central Balkan People s Park as National Park 2. Structure of the Directorate 3. Park Section Establishment Orders 4. List of Habitats Included in the CORINE Program Data Base for the Site of Central Balkan 5. Characterization of Forests in. 6. List of Plant Species of High Conservation Significance in Central Balkan National Park 7. List of Inventoried Medicinal Plants in 8. Mosses of Conservation Significance in 9. Proposal for a Red List of Mushrooms in 10. Diversity of Invertebrate Animal Taxa in 11. Summarized Data about Invertebrates in 12. List of Invertebrate Taxa of Significance for Conservation in Central Balkan National Park 13. Composition of Species and Conservation Status of Vertebrate Fauna in 14. Vertebrate Fauna Species in Requiring Priority Measures 15. Area and Location of Former State Forestry Enterprises within the Park Territory prior to Transfer to MOEW Jurisdiction 16. Specialized Tourist Trails 17. List of Known Sites of Capital Repair in the Park 18. Water-Supply Facilities around by Municipality 19. Distribution of Hydro-Power Facilities in by Administrative Units and Condition of the Power Transfer Network 20. Characteristics of Roads in 21. Natural and Mechanical Movement of the Population around Central Balkan National Park by Settlements toward December 31, Reported Agricultural Land Areas by Municipalities 23. Reported Agricultural Animals by Municipalities 24. Soil Conditions in Forests 25. Cultural and Historical Sites in 26. A List of Medicinal Plants and Herbs Allowed for Gathering 27. Areas in the Park where Grazing is Allowed and Grazing Regimes 28. Main Landscape Groups in 29. Indicators for Evaluation of the Efficiency of Meeting the Objectives Management Plan

7 v List of Maps 1. Base Map 2. Distribution of Areas by Altitude 3. Hydrogeographic Characteristics 4. Forest Vegetation and the Treeless Zone 5. Localities of Plant Species of Significance for Conservation 6. Localities of Animal Species of Significance for Conservation 7. Non-timber Natural Resources 8. Areas of High Significance for Conservation 9. Zoning Management Plan

8 vi Abbreviations USAID BAS BCEG BSPB BUT BCA BSBCP HPP HEF GIS FE FES FF SG SFB NPD EU EPA PA PAA TUDA EPC TUDC FU MIA MD MOEW MV CM NP NGO United States Agency for International Development Bulgarian Academy of Sciences Biodiversity Conservation and Economic Growth Project The Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds; Bulgarian Union of Tourists Bulgarian Climbers Federation Bulgarian-Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program Hydro-Power Plant Higher Education Facility Geographical Information System Forestry Enterprise Forestry Enterprise Section Forest Fund State Gazette State Forestry Boards National Park Department (under the MOEW) European Union Environment Protection Act Protected Area Protected Areas Act (1998, promulgated SG, issue 133 dated ; amended SG issue 98 dated ; amended and supplemented SG 28/ ; amended SG 48/ ) Territorial and Urban Development Act Environmental Protection Committee Territorial and Urban Development Committee Forestry University Ministry of the Internal Affairs Ministry of Defense Ministry of Environment and Water Motor Vehicles Council of Ministers National Park Non-Governmental Organization Management Plan

9 vii NNPS NFB NNPF EIA UNO PAS TLV DCM MRS PS RIEW SCEC AF SU HS ARD, Inc. CORINE biotopes GEF GPS IUCN UNESCO National Nature Protection Service (under the MOEW) National Department of Forests (under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests) National Nature Protection Fund Environmental Impact Assessment United Nations Organization Polish Academy of Sciences Threshold Limiting Value Decree of the Council of Ministers Mountain Rescue Service Park Section Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water (under the MOEW) Students Club for Environment Conservation Agriculture Fund Sofia University Hydrometry Station Associates in Rural Development, Inc. A Pan-European program for gathering, coordinating and provision of constant information about the condition of environment and natural resources in Europe; Functional in Bulgaria since 1994, since which 141 nature conservation sites have been identified. Global Environment Facility (note the acronym "GEF" is also used in Bulgaria for the USAID/GEF Biodiversity Project) Global Positioning System; a system determining the location of a site using a pre-set system of coordinates International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (World Conservation Union) Abbreviation for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, a structure of the United Nations Organization for education, science and culture; supports cooperation between countries in indicated areas. Management Plan

10 viii Glossary of Terminology Abiotic Anthropophytes Areal Association Autochthonous Biome Biosphere reserve Biotic BirdLife International Buffer Zone Calamity Clear felling Referring to inanimate nature (temperature, light etc.); Plants, occurring in the vegetation cover as a consequence of inadvertent or intentional human impact. They include weeds, ruderal and man-cultivated plants; An area of geographic distribution of living organisms (species, genus, family etc.) or biotic communities of a specific type; The aggregate of diverse populations named after a dominant species, a basic vegetation-cover classification unit; Local; An area or group of areas (natural and climatic zone) with distinctive climatic or other physical conditions required for the development of the plants and animals adapted to them; a large systematic and geographic sub-division in the scope of a geographic zone; National parks, nature reserves or other protected area categories, and also locations of distinctive or traditional culture of agriculture, preserving typical ecosystems; Referring to live organisms and animate nature; International nature conservation organization representing a federation of national nature conservation organizations of more than 100 countries throughout the world, united by common approaches, nature-conservation programs and mutual support, including financial support; established in 1927, with more than 2 million members, its representative in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds; The main objective is nature conservation through protection of rare species, locations of natural value (territories and aquatic areas) and the habitats, and also sustainable use of natural resources, nature conservation education and upbringing; Area around protected areas whose purpose is to mitigate the negative impacts on them; Determined in compliance with the established standards and designated in accordance with legally defined procedures, and subject to a special regime of conservation and maintenance, less strict than that of the protected area around which it is established; A massive occurrence of pests causing significant damage Clear felling is the felling of the entire tree vegetation on an area of 0.1 ha, or the merging of clear felling areas whose joint area exceeds 0.1 ha; Management Plan

11 ix Climax Community Conservation regime CORINE Biotopes Program Disturbance Ecological corridor Ecological succession Ecosystem Endangered taxon Endemic species Epizootic occurrence Habitat The final, relatively stable stage of natural development of the plant community and of the ecosystem in general, conforming most to the ecological conditions in the area in the respective period; A system of organisms co-habiting a particular space and represented by their individuals and populations; The community may be considered as consisting of plant (phytocenose) and animal (zoocenose) communities; The aggregate of allowed and prohibited actions in an area, determined by law and by the objectives, the functions and the purpose of the area in question; A pan-european program for collection, coordination and provision of constant information about the condition of the environment and the natural resources in Europe; It has been operational in Bulgaria since 1994, the areas of significance for nature conservation have been identified in 141 sites; The result of various human activities on wild animals manifest in a state of fear, agitation or irritation and inability of the animals to perform their inherent behavioral actions in the zone occupied by them. It leads to negative results for the animals changes of behavior to abandoning of the natural area of habitation; An area ensuring the connection of populations, communities, ecosystems or habitats and unfettered migration of individuals and genetic material; A sequential natural change of one ecosystem with another under the influence of factors which change or destroy the initial ecosystem and create conditions for development of another ecosystem, better adapted the new conditions; A natural unit, a uniform nature complex, organic aggregate of the inanimate environment (soil, water, air) with the live animals inhabiting it; An open system of relative stability in time and space, functioning as a uniform whole and providing for the circulation of substances and energy in the area occupied by it; A taxon whose population numbers in an area of distribution diminish at a rate at which it may cease to occur in the area anymore in a foreseeable period (locally endangered), in the country (nationally endangered) or to the planet (globally endangered); Detailed internationally recognized classifications of levels of being endangered and the criteria for their determination exist; A species or sub-species of a microorganism, mushroom, plant or animal which occurs only in a defined area (such as Balkan, Bulgarian, local within a region) Wide-spread distribution of an infectious disease among animals see Natural habitat; Management Plan

12 x Heliophilic Hydrophilic Hygrophile Important bird area Interpretation IUCN Local gatherers /of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms/ Local population with a right to use wood in the NP Maintenance and restoration Light-demanding; Water-demanding; Moisture-demanding; A land or aquatic area of significance for conservation, determined using internationally recognized digital criteria of BirdLife International and included in the global network of such areas; These areas are recognized as elements of the European ecological networks under the Birds Directive and the Habitats Directive; There are 50 important bird areas in Bulgaria which are the subject of monitoring by the Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds; Activities aiming to represent the values of the park, the problems of its management and its importance for individual persons. It consists of a combination of messages presented through tourguide discussions, printed, visual and other aids, examples, and human interactions that illustrate the significance of the Park. Interpretation is conducted mainly in and, in some cases, outside the protected area. Most often this term is used in relation to visitor services. Abbreviation for the International Union for Conservation of Nature World Conservation Union, an international nature conservation organization in which governmental and public (nongovernmental) organizations, and international organizations are members; It was established in 1948, its membership is from more than 100 countries; Bulgaria is represented by the MOEW and by the WildLife Fund; Its main objective is to organize the conservation of nature (rare species, protected areas) and sustainable use of natural resources; IUCN is the organization which developed the internationally accepted categories for protected areas used throughout the world; Natural persons residing in the municipalities Teteven, Troyan, Apriltsi, Sevlievo, Pavel Banya, Karlovo, Anton and Pirdop. The residents of those settlements where: More than 50% of the forest fund in the land of the settlements is included in the NP; The capacities of the forests outside the park and in the lands of the settlements to satisfy the local needs for wood are exhausted; A set of measures and actions aimed to ensure conditions for the maintenance of the existing condition of certain components of the natural environment or to restore a desirable previous condition (such as restoration of damaged habitats of plant species and habitats of animal species; grazing; reclamation of eroded sections by placing of top-soil or planting of grass) Management Plan

13 xi Man and Biosphere Program Management Mass event Mesophyll Monitoring Natural habitat Old growth forest Phytocenose Plantation Poaching Known also as the MAB program of UNESCO dated 1970 and aiming to develop the basis for reasonable use of natural resources in nature conservation, public and government institutions; It promoted the concept of biosphere reserves. A uniform and scientifically justified complex of measures aimed to achieve the objectives, functions and purpose of the area provided for in law (including guarding, control, direct nature conservation actions on-site, regulation of use, nature conservation education, public awareness etc.); Organized cultural, sports or public activity involving more than 50 persons; An organism preferring conditions of moderate air and soil humidity; A continuing uniform observation of the condition of an indicator, factor, structure etc. for the purpose of evaluation, forecasting, control and influencing of their optimizing; a system for observation; Natural or close to natural terrestrial or aquatic areas featuring geographic, abiotic and biotic elements. The types of ecosystems exhibiting certain homogeneity, typical appearance and relatively uniform conditions; Multi-aged forest or forest of average age, larger or equal to the average life span of the main forest formative species (the tree species) in the particular original ecological conditions; (plant community) each particular plant grouping which on certain spaces is uniform in composition, structure and interactions between its constitutive plants and between them and the environment. The phytocenose is a constitutive part of the biocenose and of the ecosystem. A forest or forest section created by means of planting (this definition relates only to the meaning in which it is used in this Management Plan); Violation of the legal provisions for conservation of natural values for personal benefit; it includes all forms of infringement upon all types of natural values, including: - killing, catching, chasing or wounding of wild animals, taking, transferring and transporting of animals found or killed, or their discernible parts, collecting of eggs and individuals, trading in wild animals. - staying or movement of persons in the park with smooth-bore and rifle-bore guns outside their sheaths, and with automatic or semi-automatic fire weapons. Poaching is a crime under the Penal Procedures Code except for the unimportant events when regarded as administrative violation; Management Plan

14 xii Population Production activities Protected taxon Rare taxon Regulation of the numbers of animal species Relict species Significant for conservation Site State forest fund An aggregate of individuals from a species, united by genetic relationship, mutual links, and inhabiting a land or aquatic area attributed to one or several bordering ecosystems; The individuals in the population are characterized by external features of the same type, similar adaptations, and a uniform specific reaction to the environment; Typical of the population are its demographic and territorial structure, specific type of dynamic of its numbers, the total biological field, as well as population unity which taken together produce unity of the population, its independent existence and the development of interactions with the remaining elements of the inhabited environment; Drying of wetlands; mining exploring and extraction of crude oil, natural gas and peat; extraction of ferrous and uranium ores; extraction of non-ferrous minerals; extraction and processing of raw materials for construction; extraction of gravel; power generation; transferring and distribution of electric power; transportation of gases and liquids along pipelines; metallurgy; production of bricks, roof tiles and other construction materials from baked clay; production of lime and gypsum; above-ground storage of oil, oil products and chemical substances; radio and television transmitters; ski-runs, lifts and facilities; A taxon placed under a protection regime by law or by other regulatory document, for which all actions that may cause damage to individuals, to their nests or lairs, to their habitation are prohibited, including disturbance, taking of individuals found dead, transferring etc.; A taxon whose population has been reduced to a minimum or which is scarce; one of the categories, endangered Taxa, has been avoided lately because of the difficulties in its exact definition and its overlapping with other categories; A purposeful change in the number of their individuals (increasing or decreasing); A taxon surviving until the present from past geological eras; A species or another taxon, community, ecosystem, natural habitat, recognized in a scientific paper as endangered to a degree or playing a significant ecological role such as included in national or international red-data books or lists, in annexes to conventions or directives and other similar documents; In the CORINE Biotopes Project a site, region, area of particular significance for conservation, determined on the basis of internationally renowned criteria. One of Bulgaria s three categories of official land divisions, which includes lands outside urban settlements and the agricultural land fund and are occupied by forests and meadows, pastures, clearings, rocks, waterbodies, areas devastated by fire, screes etc.; Management Plan

15 xiii Stenotopic Subdominant Sub-species An organism which can exist only in strictly specific and very restricted environmental conditions, with narrow ecological requirements; A plant species forming most of the composition and construction of a particular storey of a phytocenose, but less abundant than the dominant species in the phytocenose; A subdivision of the species consisting of groups of populations which have, during the process of evolution, acquired stable features and distinctions, spatial or temporal isolation barriers and other features by which they differ from the other groups of the same species but with which they can produce fertile offspring in nature; Taxon A name for the classification units reflecting the place of an organism in the system (main Taxa form/variety, sub-species, species, genus, family, order, class, type, kingdom); Treasure seeking Prospecting, development, seeking and finding of valuable archaeological and historical sites by physical or legal persons who have no legal authority under the Bulgarian legislation to perform such actions; UNESCO Vulnerable taxon Wild life Xerophilous Abbreviation for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, a structure of the United Nations Organization for education, science and culture; supports cooperation between countries in indicated areas. One of the categories for endangered Taxa, relating to Taxa whose ecological features are evidence of abrupt deterioration of the condition of their populations even in singular or insignificant changes of the environment or human impact; A part of nature undisturbed by human activities, a natural landscape with distinctive wild plants and animals and their communities; Adapted to dry environment, to life in conditions of insufficient water and reduced humidity; Management Plan

16 xiv Summary The management plan for is the main official document concerned with the features and values of biodiversity in the park and with the specific problems and manner of its conservation. The Plan contains two main sections I. Descriptive and ІІ. Prescriptive. The Descriptive Section The information in the Descriptive Section is presented in eight chapters. They describe and present the following basic data about the Park in tables, charts and maps: general description, physico-geographic characterization with information about the climate, geology, hydrology, soils and the biotic features including descriptions of the plant communities, of the diversity of habitats, the flora and the fauna. A detailed review is made of the various aspects of the relations between the people and the National Park, and, mainly, the current uses of resources, tourism and the profile of visitors, the cultural and historical heritage, the scientific research in the park, as well as the nature conservation education and awareness of the public around the Park. Also, information is presented about the infrastructure and about access to the park, about park landscapes, the overlooks and the picturesque qualities of the area. Particular attention is given to the National Park in the regional context. This section describes demographic trends in municipalities around the park, the impact of industries, recreation and tourism, public awareness and attitudes towards the park, problems of connecting the park with regional development, the role of nongovernmental organizations and the international donors in the conservation of the park. The Descriptive Section concludes with a first evaluation. It makes the finding that is a protected area of global significance for biodiversity, a center of endemic species and on-going speciation processes, a unique complex of habitats and localities of species of high significance for conservation, a park with one of Europe s largest areas of protected centennial beech forests, and an exceptionally important element of the pan-european ecological network. It is ascertained that conditions exist in the territories bordering the park to develop services for the tourists attracted by the National Park, by which means the revenue of local people could be increased. The Prescriptive Section This section is based on an analysis of the results from scientific studies on the natural elements of the park, sociological studies, information in the Park Directorate, and information from other nature conservation projects conducted in the Park, nongovernmental organizations and local and regional administrative units. The method of target-oriented planning was applied. A comparison of the legal park management objectives with the threats and restrictions of their implementation formed the management objectives, which were the basis for the programs and projects for their realization. Management Plan

17 xv The information is presented in seven chapters. The threats and limitations of natural, anthropogenic and, to some extent, temporal, financial and policy-related are analyzed. Twenty long-term objectives for management of natural components, tourism, interpretation and education, and relations with the local communities and the functions of the park administration are formulated. The objective of the management of natural components is: to preserve the natural condition and to maintain the natural processes of the basic and most significant types of ecosystems in the park; to preserve the natural condition of populations and localities of species of significance for conservation; to ensure the connection of the park to other natural areas at the national and regional levels; to maintain an optimum level of available information and of long-term biomonitoring system; to preserve the biodiversity at all levels, to protect the natural condition of landscape and its elements; and limit the development of infrastructure in the park to the management needs. One of the most important and significant tools for the achievement of these objectives is the updating, optimizing and development of the network of reserves in the NP. The plan places particular stress on tourism management and the ultimate satisfaction of tourists needs for recreation and spiritual enrichment through contact with nature, with the main objective that this is achieved in line with the significance and purpose of the Park. Ecological interpretation, training and education are substantial parts of the plan. Two main objectives are formulated in this regard optimization of the capacities for these activities and using the National Park to encourage understanding of the unity and connection between man and nature. Regarding the interests of local populations, measures are provided for the creation of conditions for environmentally sound use of natural resources in the Park; creation of a system for regular coordination of local and regional authorities and partners; creation of economic benefits for local communities; and increasing public awareness. The management of the park is viewed in direct relation to the functioning of local communities and partnerships. The main long-term objectives in this regard comprise maintenance of the park service infrastructure in conformity with the objectives of the park and with the zoning scheme; conducting a human resource development program and a park revenue generation program. The zoning of the National Park is of substantial importance in its management. Five functional zones are defined reserves ( ha), human impact limitation zones (approximately 14,060.3 ha), tourism zones (approximately 3,350 ha), infrastructure zones (approximately 1,000 ha), and a multi-purpose zone (approximately 33,300 ha). Each zone is described and the content and nature of the sites included in it are indicated, along with the norms for the activities aimed to limit the negative impacts on nature. A description is made of the actions required by the Park Administration in order that the zone fulfills its purpose. According to law, the strictest regime is that in the Reserve zone where human presence is reduced to a minimum. The least restricted regime is that of the tourism zone. Management Plan

18 xvi The zone descriptions are preceded by park-wide limitations without which the achievement of the park management objectives would be impossible. They outline behavior requirements for visitors and institutions in the Park for long-term conservation of the Park. The long-term objectives are implemented by the carrying out of programs and projects. They are grouped in five categories: management of natural components, visitor management, education and interpretation, partners and local communities, and functioning and activities of the Park Administration. Provisions are made for 27 basic programs and 82 projects whose long-term implementation would lead to the achieving of the management objectives in the planned period of time. These programs and projects take into consideration different priorities and the relevant management levels. The final chapter of the Prescriptive Section contains a three-year action plan. It incorporates a priority based selection of programs and projects to ensure efficient conservation of the park components as early as the initial stage of management. The text has nine maps, illustrating the main elements of the Park, the distribution of the area by altitude, forest vegetation and treeless zones, a hydrographic characterization, the localities of plant species and of the animal species of significance for conservation, the locations for gathering of non-timber natural resources, and the areas of high significance for conservation and the zones in the Park. The annexes, presented in tables and graphics, contain additional data for each part of the plan. They are an inseparable part of the plan because they contain the rationale for management decision-making. The plan was elaborated with equal attention to the four described areas, and in creative consensus between the Project Management Unit, the main author and the partners from the Park Directorate. An active partnership between the National Park directorate and local communities and companies interested in Central Balkan is envisioned. This management plan represents an efficient tool for long-term conservation of. Management Plan

19 xvii General Review (IUCN category II) is Bulgaria's second largest protected area (71,669.5 ha). It extends in an east-west direction, approximately 85 km, covering a strip of average length of 10 km along the topmost part of the Stara Planina mountain, and the lowest point of its boundary is 550 m above sea level. The Park was declared in 1991 and includes forests and the high mountain treeless zone, as well as nine strict nature reserves (IUCN category I) occupying more than 28% of its area. The Park lies in the territory of eight municipalities and 32 mayor's offices. The National Park area is divided into seven park sections. All natural reserves, other than Kozya Stena, and the park itself are included in the UN List of National Parks and Protected Areas. The reserves Boatin, Tsarichina, Steneto and Dzhendema are declared as biosphere reserves under the Man and Biosphere Program. The National Park is included in the BirdLife International List of Important Bird Areas and is defined as a site of the CORINE Biotopes Program of the EU. was included in the List of Parks of National Significance attached to the Protected Areas Act of According to the Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria (Article 18) and The Protected Areas Act (Article 8, paragraph 1), such areas are exclusive property of the state and pursuant to the State Property Act, are managed by the respective governmental institutions and their branches, in this case the Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW) and the Directorate. The Park area has been the subject of scientific research both prior to its declaration and afterwards. The studies have been carried out mainly by the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences the Institute of Ecology (with the Institute of Nature Conservation, PAS), the Institute of Zoology, the Institute of Botany, the Institute of Forests, the National Museum of Natural Sciences and by several NGOs (the Wilderness Fund, the Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds, the Wildlife Society Balkans, the SCEC etc.). During recent years, the most significant studies of the National Park were conducted under international nature conservation programs such as the Bulgarian- Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program (BSBCP), which entailed a study of the high-mountain treeless zone in. Most recently, the US Government-financed GEF Biodiversity Conservation Project conducted the most intensive study of selected Park areas to date. Management Plan

20 xviii Policy The protection of is the result of a series of national and international documents. First among these is the Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria (1991), Article 18. The Park is managed in direct observation of the Protected Areas Act, the Bern Convention ratified in 1991, and of Article 8 of the Biodiversity Convention ratified by Bulgaria in Designation and Park management represents implementation of the European Union Directive on the Protection of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC) and of the Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of the Wild Flora and Fauna (92/43/EEC). This has contributed to the process of Bulgaria s accession to the European Union. The conservation of, which is a main element of the National system of protected areas, is a significant step in the construction of the national and the European ecological network stemming from the National Biodiversity Conservation Action Plan (1999). The conservation of Central Balkan National Park is also the realization of the National Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (1994) and of the Pan-European Biodiversity and Landscape Conservation Strategy (1995). It is particularly important to note that the conservation of Central Balkan National Park as an IUCN Category II protected area, where at least threequarters of its area must be managed for the achievement of its nature conservation objectives, conforms to the spirit and objectives of these national and international documents. The drafting of the management plan and the activities it provides for are required by national and international instruments. They conform directly to Section II of the Protected Areas Act (1998), and, at the same time, fulfill the agreements assumed by Bulgaria under the Bern Convention (in effect since 1991) and the Convention on Biodiversity (in effect since 1996). Ownership is property of the State. As a representative of the State, the MOEW exercises its rights to ownership over all currently protected areas that are exclusive property of the state. In line with the State Property Act of 1996, national parks serve the public in providing recreation areas for general use. In this manner the national parks remain property of the nation and of all Bulgarian citizens. Management Plan

21 xix Elaboration of the Management Plan This plan was made in compliance with the terms of reference by the Ministry of Environment and Water. The Management Plan is the result of cooperation between the Ministry of Environment and Water and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) through the GEF Biodiversity Project carried out by the Associates in Rural Development, Inc. (ARD). Subsequently, the project management was undertaken by the Biodiversity Conservation and Economic Growth (BCEG) Project. The Management Plan was carried out by a team involving scientists from the Institute of Botany, the Institute of Zoology and the National Museum of Natural Sciences at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, specialists from the GEF Project Management Unit, specialists from Agrolesproject, officials from the National Park Directorate, members of NGOs the Wilderness Fund and the Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds (BSPB). The scientific research for the elaboration of the plan started in The maps for the Management Plan were produced by ProGIS Ltd. The maps were based on digital models from Agrolesproject Ltd. for the forest areas, to a 1:10,000 scale, and to digital models for the treeless zone to a 1:25,000 scale, obtained from the studies by the BSBCP. The two digital models form the GIS database of the park. Structure of the Management Plan First, the Management Plan describes important aspects of protected areas of the Park, and of the Park s adjacent areas. This description is not exhaustive, but rather is a summary of all scientific data known from the area. This includes biotic, abiotic and socio-economic data. More detailed and extensive publication of this information is provided under separate publications noted in the bibliography. The plan is among the first documents of this type, containing specially collected information through comprehensive socio-economic studies adding to the data about the abiotic and biotic resources. The descriptive section of this Plan is designed to facilitate description and development of park s long-term objectives. While this Management Plan is based on an enormous amount of information extracted from all accessible literature, unpublished data of individuals and organizations, databases, and special studies, it can definitely be said that Central Balkan is not among Bulgaria's best studied areas. The material presented in the Plan (including the maps produced using the Park s Geographic Information System (GIS) is a most scrupulous analysis of the available information. There are reasons to believe that if the gathering of information should continue, it will be established that the national park possesses far more impressive natural values. Second, the Plan contains two evaluations which provide the basis for the development of Park Management Objectives. The first is an evaluation of the significance of the park at the national, European and global levels. The first Management Plan

22 xx evaluation provides the basis for the determination of the ideal objectives of the Park. These objectives describe the long-term purpose of the Park. The second evaluation is conducted to identify and evaluate threats to the values of the Park. It serves as the basis for an informed selection of management objectives. These objectives are specific and time-bound. They describe a set of results to be achieved in the next ten years. The Park's operational objectives are the foundation for an applied Park zoning scheme. Five Park Zones are described in this Plan. Three are required by law. The purpose of each zone, its geographic territory, the regimes and the related norms, and the actions required for efficient achievement of the objectives for these zones are described. Finally, this Plan describes the programs and projects that will be used to achieve the Park's management objectives. Human, financial and material resources will be described once the National Park's Management Plan Framework, Objectives and Zoning have been approved by the Ministry of Environment and Water. This Management Plan includes data, information and management recommendations from the High Mountain Treeless Zone Management Plan elaborated by the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Project. The information from this plan proved essential for the understanding of the biodiversity in the high mountain zone of the Park, problems of its conservation, and provided important digital information for the GIS database of the Park. Planning in the Regional Context This plan aims to assist in providing information and involve the communities around the park and in building partnerships with them. One very important objective of this relationship will be the development of systematic and flexible mechanisms to accommodate public interests that do not contradict the nature conservation objectives of the Park. In this regard, the participation of interested groups in the discussion and in the further implementation of the plan is of importance. The mechanism of this participation is regulated with the Rules on the Procedures and Activities of the National Park Directorates (State Gazette, issue 68, ). These rules requires the establishment of Public Councils at the NPD to serve as advisory authorities on matters of park management and development. The councils involve representatives of local governmental authorities, municipalities, scientific institutions, public organizations, etc. * * * The Management Plan was largely based on the EUROSITE format. It allows for the necessary flexibility and adaptation to the specific situation of. The main author of the Plan is Dr. Petar Iankov, who worked with the support of the Park Directorate, and the GEF Project Management Unit. Management Plan

23 SECTION I. DESCRIPTION

24 3 1.0 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK GENERAL DESCRIPTION 1.1. LOCATION AND BOUNDARIES is located in the central part of Bulgaria (figure 1). Its center is located at northern latitude and eastern longitude. It includes the highest point of Central Stara Planina mountains and three parts of the Balkan mountain chain Zlatishko-Tetevenska mountain (highest peak Vezhen, 2,198 m above sea level), Troyanska Mountain (highest peak Kupena, 2,169 m above sea level) and Kaloferska Mountain (highest peak Botev, 2,376 m above sea level). Botev is also the highest peak in the Stara Planina mountain range. Boundaries Figure 1. Geographic Location of The exact boundaries were determined with Order No. 396/ (Appendix No. 1, State Gazette, issue 28/ ), and are reflected on the map of the National Park. The Park area in these boundaries is 71,669.5 ha. The eastern boundary of the National Park is located along the eastern and northeastern slopes of the Mazalat massif, and most of it follows the river Gabrovnitsa north of the village Skobelevo. The northern boundary follows the line: river Mihalia peak Mihalia the saddle valley Kosishki preval peak Kositsa locality Bobcha. Management Plan

25 4 The northern and southern boundaries are very curved and follow through a wide range of heights from 500 m above sea level (near Karlovo and Karnare), to 1,525 m (near Troyan Pass). The northern boundary follows the line: peak Golyam Klimash Troyan Pass Rusaliski Pass Koritata locality. In certain locations (village Ribaritsa) it descends to m and in others (Beklemeto, Tabite) it ascends to 1,500 m above sea level. The southern boundary, sharply curved, follows horizontally along low-mountain and mid-mountain belts, falling as low as low as Tazha and Karlovo, and continues to the west to approximately three kilometers north of Karnare, Rozino, Klisura and Anton GENERAL PARK AREA The National Park covers a forest fund area of 44,000.8 ha (61%) and high-mountain pastures and meadows of a total area 27,668.7 ha (39%). The share of each of these territories in the National Park is presented in Figure 2: 39% Forests ha 61% High-mountain meadous and pastures ha Reserves Figure 2. Ratio of Forests to High-Mountain Meadows and Pastures There are nine nature reserves in the National Park Boatin, Tsarichina, Kozya Stena, Steneto, Stara Reka, Dzhendema, Northern Dzhendem, Peeshti Skali, and Sokolna with a total area of 20,019.6 ha. Eight of the reserves (excluding Kozya Stena), and the Park as a whole are included in the UN List of National Parks and Protected Areas. The Park was declared by BirdLife International as an important bird area of global significance. The reserves Boatin, Tsarichina, Steneto and the Dzhendema are declared as biosphere reserves under UNESCO s Man and Biosphere Program. Boatin, Tsarichina and Dzhendema have been reserves for the last 50 years. Their areas are shown in Table 1, and their locations are presented on the base map of the Park. The percentage of Park territory with reserve status is about 28% (Figure 3). Management Plan

26 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK BASE MAP The map contains the following object classes: boundaries of the national park and of park sections; hydrography (main rivers and first tributaries); important peaks with elevations and names; communication lines (asphalt and macadam surfaced roads, tourist trails, railway lines); Tourist Infrastructure reserves; and urban centers. The Park section offices of the National Park Directorate are also indicated. The maps for the Management Plan are based on digital models from Agrolesproject Ltd., on the areas from the Forest Fund, at a scale of 1:10000; and digital models for the treeless zone to a scale 1: These are results from the studies of the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program, and on information from the Park Directorate. The two digital models form the GIS database of the park. One exception is the map illustrating the hydrographic characteristic made based on a map at a scale of 1: LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Reserve Peaks with Elevation and Name Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter

27

28 5 28% Reserves - 28% 72% Area outside the Reserves - 72% Figure 3. Ratio of the Area of Nature Reserves to the Entire Area of the National Park Table 1. Basic Data about Reserves and Buffer Zones in the Park Reserve Designation Order No./ Last Amendment Order Area (ha) Boatin CM Decree 7285/12 June , /25 January 1991 Tsarichina CM Decree 4942/18 July , /29 June 1992 Kozya Stena 1048/22 December /25 January 1991 Steneto 214/5 April , /15 January 1991 Stara Reka 200/19 March /25 January 1991 Dzhendema 606/28 March , /25 January 1991 Northern Dzhendem 995/30 September , /09 January 1985 Peeshti Skali 502/11 July ,465.7 Sokolna 501/11 July , /09 January 1985 TOTAL 20, TERRITORIAL ADMINISTRATIVE UNITS Regional Administrative Units The Park lies within the territories of five regional administrative areas: Lovech (28,827.5 ha) Gabrovo (3,192.4 ha) Stara Zagora (10,550.7 ha) Plovdiv (25,702.1 ha) Sofia (3,396.8 ha) Management Plan

29 6 Figure 4 presents the distribution of relative area of park in individual administrative areas. 36% 5% 40% Lovech Gabrovo Stara Zagora Plovdiv Sofia 15% 4% Figure 4. Distribution of Relative Area in the Park by Administrative Areas Distribution of Park Area by Municipalities The Park lies on the territory of 8 municipalities and 31 areas owned by settlements: 1. Municipality Teteven lands: villages Divchovoto, Cherni Vit, and Ribaritsa; 2. Municipality Troyan land: villages Chiflik, Beli Osam, Balkanets, Cherni Osam; 3. Village Apriltsi the lands of town Apriltsi; 4. Municipality Sevlievo mayoral units: villages Kravenik, Stokite; 5. Municipality Pavel Banya lands: villages Manolovo, Tazha, Asen, Skobelevo, Osetenovo, Gabarevo, Tarnichane, town Pavel Banya; 6. Municipality Karlovo lands: town Kalofer, village Vasil Levski, towns Karlovo, Sopot, villages Anevo, Iganovo, Pevtsite, Karnare, Hristo Danovo, Rozino, town Klisura; 7. Municipality Anton lands of the village Anton; 8. Municipality Pirdop lands of the village Pirdop The distribution of forest and high-mountain meadow and pasture areas by municipality is as follows: Municipality Forests (ha) High-Mountain Meadows and Pastures (ha) Pavel Banya 6, ,287.2 Karlovo 13, ,780.8 Anton 1, ,084.9 Sevlievo 2, Apriltsi 2, ,946.8 Troyan 7, ,960.6 Teteven 9, ,103.8 Pirdop Management Plan

30 7 Their ratios are presented in Figure 5: Pirdop Teteven Troian Apriltsi Sevlievo High- mountain meadows and pastures Forest s Anton Karlovo Pavel bania Figure 5. Distribution of the Forest Fund and of the High-Mountain Meadows and Pastures by Municipality (ha) Administrative Sections in the Park For the purposes of management, the National Park is divided into seven park sections (PS), (Appendix No. 3): Park section Teteven includes parts of the lands of the villages Divchovoto, Cherni Vit, Ribaritsa, on 12, ha; Park section Troyan includes parts of the lands of the villages Chiflik, Beli Osam, Balkanets, Cherni Osam, on 11, ha; Park section Stokite includes parts of the lands of the town of Apriltsi, the village of Kravenik; the village of Stokite, on 9, ha; Park section Tazha includes the lands of the villages Manolovo; Tazha; Asen; Skobelevo; Osetenovo; Gabarevo; Tarnichane; of the town of Pavel Banya, on 9, ha; Park section Kalofer includes parts of the lands of the town of Kalofer, on 7, ha; Management Plan

31 8 Park section Kalofer includes parts of the lands of the village Vasil Levski, and of the towns of Karlovo and Sopot, of the village Anevo, on 11,479.8 ha; Park section Klisura includes parts of the lands of the villages Iganovo, Pevtsite, Karnare, Hristo Danovo, Rozino, of the town of Klisura, of the village of Anton, and of the town of Pirdop, on 9, ha PAST DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE PARK The Central Balkan Park was declared with Order No 843/31 October 1991 of the Minister of Environment. According to the legislation in effect at the time (Article 17 and Article 22 of the Nature Protection Act), it was declared a People s Park. The official proposal for the declaration of the Central Balkan People s Park had been made by the then Institute of Ecology at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences as early as Before then a large part of the Central Stara Planina mountains represented a network of nature reserves with strict protection regimes, and the currently existing Steneto Reserve was initially declared as a People s Park. The reserves were increased gradually, expanding from 3,700 ha in 1978 to 20,000 ha in Also, buffer zones of the maximal possible size, reaching as high as the ridge had been declared. The order establishing the People s Park defines the specific sections of forests and agricultural lands by municipality, as well as the reserves in the Park. It describes the Park boundaries, the area and the regimes of protection, and the guidelines for use of the entire territory. In keeping with the IUCN zoning recommendations, the People's Park contained strictly protected zones of more than 28% of its overall size. This strict protection zone consisted of the 9 reserves, each declared with a separate order. Following the establishment of the People's Park (October 31, 1991), the forest fund on its territory was managed by the eleven Forestry Enterprises (FE) existing at the time. These were later transformed into State Forestry Boards (SFB), two under changed names (the Pirdop SFB was the successor of the Srednogorie FE and the Rositsa SFB succeeded the Stokite FE). The forestry enterprises and the state forestry boards had been the operative units of the then Committee of Forests. With Order 62/ , the Committee of Forests established the Central Balkan People s Park Management Department with its main office in Troyan, and another office in the town of Karlovo. The Department had the following functions: conduct state policy for coordination, methodical guidance and control of the implementation of park management project; scientific, educational and promotional activities for nature conservation and restoration; and biology and landscape diversity conservation. Its obligations included organizing of tourism and recreation in the State Forest Fund in the People s Park. According to the same order, the Forestry Enterprises shall organize and carry out the guarding, protection, management, and reproduction of the natural resources of the forest fund. The People's Park Management Department, in Troyan, was closed on February 15, Management Plan

32 9 With Order RD-252/ the Ministry of Environment created the Central Balkan Regional Environmental Inspectorate on July 15, 1996, with headquarters in the town of Gabrovo. It became operational from 8 October 1996 and had the following functions: to organize and control enforcement of nature protection legislation; to participate in the elaboration and control over programs, plans, projects and activities for nature protection and development of the area and infrastructure of the Park; to monitor and control the quality of the environment, biodiversity, habitats and plant and animal species; to organize and control the use, maintenance and protection of natural resources; and to coordinate the control functions of other ministries and agencies with respect to the environment, and the use, maintenance and guarding of natural resources; to coordinate the activities of owners and users of lands, resources and sites, of the municipalities, and of other stakeholders; and to organize, coordinate and implement training, educational and information programs and projects. With Order RD-155/ the Ministry of Environment transformed the Inspectorate into a Central Balkan People's Park Department, at the Veliko Tarnovo Regional Environment and Water Inspectorate. With its Order RD-506/ the Ministry of Environment and Water closed the Central Balkan People s Park at the Veliko Tarnovo Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water and established the National Park Directorate with headquarters in Gabrovo. The above order was completed with Order RD14/ of the Minister of Environment and Water. This order established a head office for the Directorate in the town of Troyan to ensure a physically closer operational guidance, coordination, and control of the National Park's maintenance and guarding activities. Upon its adoption in 1998, the Protected Areas Act provided for the opportunity to update the boundaries of the parks of national significance. In April 2000, the National Assembly adopted an Act on the Amendment and Supplementing of the Protected Areas Act, reclassifying Central Balkan as a national park and reducing its area by ha (Appendix No. 1). The reclassification order eliminated the errors and technical inaccuracies in the 1991 declaration order, and thus the figure showing the actual size was reduced further by 1,269.2 ha. In 2000, two reserves near the Park boundaries were added to the area in which the Directorate carries out management and guarding. The Elenova Gora reserve on the lands of the village of Sahrane, on 53.7 ha and the maintained reserve Chamdzha in the lands of the village Hristo Danovo, on 64.5 ha. Current Status The Protected Areas Act defines as a park of national significance. With Order RD-396/ the Park was officially reclassified and became one of Bulgaria s three National Parks. These classifications correspond to IUCN Category II Protected Areas. Management Plan

33 10 The existing reserves remained in the Park, and retained their strict conservation regime, meeting the IUCN Category I Protected Area classification. Their purpose and status remained unchanged by the Protected Areas Act. Table 2 presents the restrictions and prohibitions within the National Park introduced with Order No 843/31 October 1991, and a comparison of those for nature reserves according to the 1998 Protected Areas Act. In essence, no stricter limitations and prohibitions were introduced in the Park as compared to those existing in the People s Park. Table 2. Restrictions and Prohibitions in Central Balkan as People s Park and as National Park Activities In the People's Park In the National Park Clear cutting prohibited prohibited Damaging of rock formations, gathering of fossils prohibited prohibited and minerals Disturbance of the natural condition of aquatic areas, prohibited prohibited water flows, their banks and adjacent territories Introduction of new plant and animal species prohibited prohibited Grazing of goats prohibited prohibited Commercial or industrial gathering of berries and prohibited restricted other plants or animals in large quantities Surveying for, and extraction of, ores and minerals prohibited prohibited and inert materials Picking of flowers prohibited prohibited Pollution of areas prohibited prohibited Game breeding and hunting, regulation of animal prohibited prohibited populations by means of traps, poison and sedation Use of chemicals and fertilizers prohibited prohibited Disturbance of wild animals prohibited prohibited Lighting of fires restricted restricted Camping restricted restricted Construction restricted restricted Grazing of livestock (other than goats) restricted restricted Tourism restricted restricteded Fishing restricteded restricted 1.5. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK DIRECTORATE The Directorate is a specialized, regional authority of the Ministry of Environment and Water, appointed for management and control of the National Park. Articles 50 and 70 of the Protected Areas Act define the main administrative responsibilities of the Directorate. The functions and structure of the Management Plan

34 11 Directorate are defined in the Rules on the Functions and Activities of the National Park Directorate (SG, issue 68/ ). Staff By early April 2001, the National Park Directorate employed 67 officials. Of them 61 full time (21 governmental officials) and 6 part-time, in accordance with CM Decree 66. They include: Director Administrative specialists: head of department Protection, Control and Maintenance (Deputy Director); head of the Resource Monitoring and Conservation sector; 10 inspectors (chief and junior); Seven chief experts and 42 officials (chief, senior, junior experts) from the Park Guard. Five officials in the General Administration Department (accountant-in-chief, senior expert-accountant, cashier, chief transport specialists etc.). (Appendix No. 2). Offices of the National Park Directorate The Directorate possesses a main office with a total area of 338 m 2. The address of the main office is 3 Bodra Smiana St., floor III, town of Gabrovo, postcode 5300, phone 066/61302; 62279, mobile phone , e- mail: office@centralbalkan.bg. The National Park Directorate has local offices for the respective park sections in the following seven settlements: Park Section Office address Phone Troyan 5600 Troyan 0670/ Stara Planina St., office-tr@centralbalkan.bg Tazha 6160 town of Tazha, 04367/520 The Mayor s Office Teteven 5720 village Ribaritsa 06902/233 The Mayor s Office Stokite 5462 Village Stokite /410 The Mayor s Office Karlovo 4300 Town of Karlovo, 0335/ December Square No. 20 Kalofer 4370 town of Kalofer, 03133/2532 The Mayor s Office Klisura 4341 town of Klisura, The Reading Library 03137/2052 fax 03137/2229 Management Plan

35 PHYSICAL-GEOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS 2.1. THE CLIMATE OF CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK According to Bulgaria's climatic zoning, lies in three main climatic areas: mountain, moderate continental and transitory. The mountain climate area is higher than 1,000 m above sea level. The Stara Planina mountain chain is the main climatic barrier in Bulgaria. Its northern foothills experience a moderate continental climate, and its southern parts are characterized by transitory conditions. The climate elements vary significantly in the Park with its higher elevations, slope, exposure of slopes, and the significantly indented terrain. The average annual temperatures are among the lowest in the country, and the annual, average precipitation is among the highest. The average annual temperature is 7 C. The temperature decreases at higher elevations and at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 m reaches 1.5 C, and at 2,000 2,370 m above sea level it measures between 1.5 C and 0.5 C. The average January temperature varies between -9 and -3 C and is lowest on Botev Peak (-9.3 C). The average temperature in July varies between 7.4 C and 16.5 C. The precipitation increases with height and usually reaches 1,200 mm/year, and is more abundant on the northern slopes. The highest precipitation levels of 1,300 mm/year were established in the Park (Ambaritsa chalet). The southern slopes feature less precipitation, at an average of 550 mm/year. The maximum level of precipitation is in June and the lowest in February. Winter precipitation is mainly snow. The snow cover remains for approximately six months. Avalanches are a frequent occurrence, most often in the range between 1,500 and 2,200 m above sea level, mainly in the treeless zone. The Mountain Climate Area is characterized by frequent and strong winds. This is particularly so along the slopes and peaks where the average annual wind speed reaches 10 m/sec. The northern foothills of the Central Balkan experience uncharacteristically warm spring winds sweeping in from the south (foehn), while turbulent boreal winds can occur along the southern slopes. The moderate continental climate area covers the lower northern slopes of the Park. The average January temperatures are low (-3.5 to 1.5 C), and the average July temperatures are comparatively high ( C). The average annual precipitation varies between 680 and 1,000 mm. The maximum precipitation level is in the summer (June) and the minimum is in the winter (February). Late spring and early fall can be characterized by frosts and frequent temperature fluctuations. The transitory climatic area covers the lower parts of the northern slopes and the entire southern slopes of the Park. The average January temperatures are -2.5 to -1 C, and the average for July are 17 to 21 C. The average annual precipitation in this zone is mm. Management Plan

36 14 These three climatic regions are among the most significant causes for the presence of natural elements and communities typical of other geographic zones. There are significant differences between the climate belts, which are accentuated by the differences in elevation and the complex terrain over a relatively small area. These factors contribute significantly to the exceptionally high biological diversity of the National Park. There is pronounced vertical stratficiation and zoning of climate in the National Park. There is also general drying of the area, possibly linked to global warming. Sunshine The average annual amount of sunshine hours in the Park is 1,848 h. The relative sunshine duration on Botev peak is highest in August, at 56% and lowest in May and December, at 33%. Solar Radiation The average multi-annual summary solar radiation in the National Park is between 6,000-6,200 MJ/m 2. The maximum possible radiation on the highest peaks reaches 8,300-8,500 MJ/m 2. In July/August, the maximum summary radiation reaches 1,050-1,100 MJ/m 2, while in January the minimum is MJ/m 2. The summary radiation increases by elevation. Photosynthetic Active Solar Radiation The photosynthetic solar radiation (conditions associated with the development of plants) for the National Park, during periods of stable air temperatures above 10 C, can be assessed at 1,500-1,700 MJ/m 2 for the lower parts of the Park, and up to 1,100-1,200 MJ/m 2 in the high parts. Snow Cover Permanent retention of snow in the National Park is observed during the first ten-day period in November along the northern slopes, and during the third ten-day period of the same month, for the southern slopes. The snow depth during the second and third ten-day period of February reaches cm at 1,100-1,200 m above sea level and 150 to 200 cm at altitudes above 2,000 m. The snow cover in the lower parts stays for days with more than days in the higher parts. The maximum snow cover occurs in March. Individual drifts remain throughout the year (mainly around the massif of Botev peak). Fog The frequency of fog increases at higher altitudes but is strongly affected by terrain and microclimates. Based on an evaluation of this phonomenon over the years, the average is 270 days of park terrain dominated by foggy conditions. The maximum number of days with fog occurs in May and June. It coincides with the maximum level of relative Management Plan

37 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK DISTRIBUTION OF AREA BY ALTITUDE The map presents the distribution of by altitude belts in four classes: between 500 and 1,000 m above sea level, between 1,000 and 1,500 m, between 1,500 and 2,000 m and between 2,000 and 2,500 m above sea level. The different altitude belts are presented in different colors. The remaining object classes are the same as in the base map. The map was based on a graphic database of the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program. Less than 5% of the National Park area belongs to the highest altitude belt. Also, the area at altitude above 1,000 m is minimal, covering between 5 and 10%. Most of the area is distributed nearly equally between the two intermediary belts and falls within the altitude range of 1,000 to 2,000 m above sea level. Approximately 2/3 of the area between 1,500 and 2,000 m above sea level is in the eastern part of the Park, and the remaining 1/3 is in the western part, with a characteristic decrease in altitude in the middle section. A typical terrain feature is the presence of rock formations and caves, the more significant ones being noted. LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Reserve Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter Peaks with Elevation and Name Cave Single Rock Altitude in Meters

38

39 15 humidity. At altitudes between 2,000 and 2,300 m, the maximum of cases with fog is in January and February, and secondary maximum levels occur in May-June. Wind Annually, northwestern and western-northwestern winds prevail on the northern slope of the National Park. The southern slope is influenced most by winds from north and north-northwest. The prevalent strong winds (speed higher than 14 m/s) are from northwest and west-northwest on the northern slope and west and southwest on the southern slope. The average wind speed on peak Botev during the winter reaches the country s highest values. Boreal winds are frequent along the northern slope with a prevalent transfer of air masses from the south (foehn winds). During the cold period of the year these winds are warm, and dry in the summer. Typical of the southern slope are the falling cold winds occurring during the winter months (November-February) GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL STRUCTURE The most significant morphological structures of Bulgaria (the Moesian table, the Balkanides, the Rhodopide morphostructure), formed during the Neogene and Quaternary periods. The Balkanides - the largest, most recent geological formation, occurred alongside the development of the Alps and Himalayan mountain systems. This system is represented in Bulgaria by three longitudinal parts: Pre-Balkan, Stara Mountain chain and Srednogorie areas. The Park area is made of magma plutonic bodies, sediment, and metamorphous rocks of the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Paleogenic age. As a result, the Central Balkan has a complex geological history and structure. Four denudation levels are observed in the Park with richly diverse geomorphological elements. These include flattened ridges, sloping steps, sloping declivities, granite over-thrusts, and well expressed surface and underground limestone (karst) forms. There are deep canyons, individual rocks and rock walls, deep precipices and water caves in the Park. The Stara Planina mountain chain forms an arc widely opened to the north and northeast, and represents a complex natural and geographic boundary between Northern and Southern Bulgaria. The chain is west-east in orientation, caused by its links to the tectonic shifts associated with the formation of the Alps and Himalayas. Tectonic pressure from the south caused the mountain folds to incline to the north. Granite overthrust masses in the highest ridge parts from Levski peak (Ambaritsa), through Botev peak, to Triglav peak form an enormous tectonic klippe, approximately 30 km long, called the Botev Peak Overthrust. The klippe is deeply denuded and is of varying width, several hundred meters at Levski peak to 10 km in the Kalofer area. Management Plan

40 16 Approximately one quarter of the forested area of the Park is on granite rock, spreading mainly to the areas of Cherni Vit, Ribaritsa, Klisura and Sahrane. Next in distribution are the crystalline schists. These occur mainly in the area of Karlovo. Third is sandstone, mainly in the areas of Apriltsi, Rositsa and Sahrane. Others, less well presented, are the clay schists (Ribaritsa, Cherni Osam), the south-bulgarian granite (Karlovo, Pirdop), the granodiorite, (Rozino) and the dolomite (around Cherni Osam, Rozino). Others include granite gneiss, marl, lime, and quartz porphyry. The Stara Planina karst covers a small area of the Park. Steneto reserve is the area of the Cherni Osam river canyon and includes deep precipices and precipice caves, including Bulgaria's deepest cave, the Raichova Dupka, 377 m deep. Next are the Malkata Yama, 232 m deep, Borova Dupka, 168 m deep, and the Pticha Dupka, 108 m deep. All of these elements combine to offer a landscape of highly aesthetic value and tremendous variety in a relatively small area. The geology and elevation of the Park combine to afford excellent vistas, long-distance views, wide panoramas, and relatively quick access from the north and south HYDROLOGY is rich in water resources. The slopes between denudation surfaces are steep and cut by many streams. The Park's deep karst performs significant regulatory functions in supplying underground water to rivers, and the large forested areas contribute significantly to water retention in the watershed. The main line dividing the rivers of the Black Sea and Aegean watersheds follows along the ridge of the Stara Planina mountains. From west to east it begins from the boundary of the watershed of the Malak Iskar river and transits gradually through Svishti Plaz peak, 2,000 m., peak Vezhen, 2,198 m, Kozya Stena, 1,869 m, Botev, 2,376 m, and Rosovatets, 1,972 m, following which it reaches the eastern boundary of the National Park, following along the valleys of the rivers Rositsa and Gabrovnitsa (a tributary of Tundzha). The watershed is approximately 106 km long. The main watershed line divides the National Park in two parts, a northern part, with the waters draining to the Danube, and to the Black Sea (Black Sea watershed), and southern, with waters draining to the Maritsa river and, through it, to the Aegean sea (Aegean watershed). The main rivers originating in the National Park are the Vit, Osam, and Rositsa. The larger rivers belonging to the Aegean watershed are the rivers Topolnitsa, Stryama and Tundzha. The respective areas of the watersheds of the rivers feeding the Black Sea and Aegean watersheds are km 2 and km 2 (Table 3). The higher degree of forestation makes the northern part of more favorable for surface runoff formation. The basins of the rivers high on the southern slopes of the Park are small and steep with a large water outflow. In many locations some rivers form high cataracts and Management Plan

41 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK HYDROGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS The map of hydrographic characteristics of Central Balkan NP was made with the use of topography maps to a scale of M 1: This presents the main watershed line in the boundaries of the Park and the watershed lines of the aquifers of the rivers Vit, Osam, Rositsa (Black Sea watershed), Topolnitsa, Stryama, and Tundzha (Aegean watershed). No hydrometric network exists in the Park. The only hydrometric station (337) on the Stara Reka river (a left tributary of Stryama river) inside the Park is shown. On the northern part, the nearest station is on the Rositsa river (Hydrometric Station 72), approximately 6 km outside the Park. Only stations of the national meteorological network are located in the Park. The hydrometric and meteorological stations are served by the National Institute of Metrology and Hydrology (NIMH) at the BAS. No system of facilities for integrated water resource use exists in Central Balkan National Park. The water storage basins in the mountain and surrounding areas are outside the Park. Water is used for power generation in the watersheds of the Rositsa river (on the northern side of the Park) and the Tazha river (southern side of the Park). LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Main Watershed Line Asphalt Road Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Reserve Peaks with Elevation and Name Meteorological Station Rain-Meter Station Hydrometric Station Number

42

43 17 picturesque water falls (spillaries) such as Suchurum, Karlovsko Praskalo, Raisko (the highest in Bulgaria), Babsko, Kademlisko, and other smaller ones. The only lake, Saragyol, is of insignificant size, and is located at Kaloferska Mountain, below the Golyam Kupen and Malak Kupen peaks. The average annual volume of water formed in is 460 million cubic meters. In dry years it decreases to 290 million m 3, and in years of moderate humidity it increases to 530 million m 3. The water in the Park is of drinking quality and represents a significant part of Bulgaria s drinking water reserves. Table 3. Main Hydrographic Features of Rivers in N o. River Watershed area Average altitude River network density Degree of Forestation km 2 m km/km 2 % 1 Vit , Osam , Rositsa , Black Sea watershed , Topolnitsa , Stryama , Tundzha , Aegean Sea watershed , Total for Central Balkan , No hydrometric network exists in the National Park. Only the hydrometric sampling station 337 (XMC 337) on Stara Reka River (left-side tributary to the Stryama river) is located in the Park. This station is totally insufficient and does not allow for direct assessment of the hydrological regime of river flows SOILS AND SOIL PROCESSES The Park falls into two forest-vegetation areas. Moesian Forest Vegetation Area - a sub-area of northern Bulgaria (middle height belt ,800 m above sea level, and a high-mountain belt - 1,800-2,200 m above sea level). Thracian Forest Vegetation Area (to the south of the central ridge) - a sub-area Upper Thrace (lower belt at m above sea level, middle belt at 700-2,000 m above sea level, and high-mountain belt at 2,000-2,500 m above sea level). Soil Types The soils in are highly diverse. Brown forest, cinnamonic forest, mountain forest dark, mountain meadow, and humuscarbonaceous soils (rendzines) prevail. Management Plan

44 18 The brown forest soils (Cambisols) cover the middle forest vegetation belt of the Moesian and Thracian areas and occupy 96.9% of the forest area. They are formed mainly over non-carbonate rocks (granite, gneiss, crystalline schist, sand). Their characteristic feature is the full soil profile (A, B, C). The humus accumulation horizon (A) is cm deep. The illuvial horizon (B) reaches cm. Horizon (C) is made of loose rock. The following sub-types represent the brown forest soils: brown forest dark soils (32.1%), brown forest transitory soils (56.6%) and brown forest light soils (11.3%): The brown forest dark soils (Umbric Cambisols) usually occupy northern dispositions or dispositions with northern component. Their main feature is the deep humus accumulation horizon and the high humus content (up to 10-12%), with its quantity remaining high as deep as cm. The brown forest transitory soils occur in almost all dispositions. The humus horizon is less deep and the humus quantity diminishes more rapidly in the profile. However, these soils have very good properties and are of substantial significance for the vegetation in the Park. The brown forest light soils are typical for the southern dispositions. They have reduced humus horizons, a comparatively shallow soil profile, and more prominent skeletal structure. The cinnamonic forest soils (Chromic Luvisols) occur in the lower belt of the Thracian area (the lowest mountain sections) and occupy 2.1% of the forest area. They cover predominantly dry and broken landforms and overlay non-carbonic rocks such as andesites, granites, sandstone and clay, and clay-like alluvial strata. The mountain forest dark soils (Umbric Cambisols) are insignificant in the forest fund (1.0%). They are well stocked with humus and nitrogen compounds, but the high altitude and the low temperatures retard the microbiological processes and make them less fertile. They cover parts of the Middle and High-Mountain belts of both forest vegetation areas. The mountain meadow soils (Molic Cambisols) occupy the highest parts of the Park and fall within the high-mountain belt of the Moesian and the Thracian forest vegetation areas. They are formed on non-carbonaceous rocks (mainly granite-gneiss and granite) and in harsh mountain climates with low temperatures (0 to 8.5 C), heavy precipitation (more than 800 mm) and short periods of vegetation. The vegetation under which they are formed is completely grass. The mechanical composition of these soils is light, with a higher content of clay in the humus horizon and abrupt reduction of the same in depth. Their organic content is high (15-20%) and their reaction is mainly acidic. The higher sorption capacity in the humus horizon is caused mainly by the high content of humus. A typical feature is the trend toward formation of a peat horizon holding large amounts of water, with reduction processes similar to those in the chernozem soil formation process. Three soil types are formed in this manner: mountain-meadow peat, mountain-meadow turf soils and mountainmeadow black-soil type. In the first, there is a peat horizon of semi-decomposed organic matter. It is followed by the peat and humus horizon, and then paternal rock. Management Plan

45 19 The turf sub-type features a light mechanical composition below the humus horizon, which makes the soil much more susceptible to linear erosion. The third sub-type contains no peat horizon. Only a humus-accumulation horizon exists. The mountain meadow soils are composed of large particulates. No calcium carbonate occurs throughout the profile. The humus content is high, more than 10%, but diminishes down into the profile to 1-2%. This, however, is crude humus consisting of incompletely humidified substances. The reaction is acidic, with ph around 4.5. The mountain meadow soils are of high fertility potential but the many nutritious substances are in a form not allowing easy assimilation by plants. The humidity is sufficient, but the air quality has deteriorated. Humus carbonaceous soils (rendzinas) occur on a limited area in the karst regions in the Park. Erosion The erosion processes in are directly dependent on the rock base, terrain, quantity and intensity of precipitation, the degree of forest coverage, type of vegetation, anthropogenic interference, and economic factors. No strong erosion processes were observed in forested areas, and no danger of their arising was established. The erosion in these locations is a very slow process and does not cause damage due to the protection of the soil by the existing forest tree vegetation. The eroded areas in the forested areas are 2%, mainly along dirt roads and rivers. According to the five point classification scheme, the distribution of the eroded areas is as follows: I degree ha (0.4%); II degree ha (0.7%); III degree ha (0.5%); IV degree ha (0.5%); V degree ha (less than 0.05%). The erosion level shows disturbances in the soil horizons. The most wide-spread soil types in the area brown, cinnamonic, and mountain forest soils especially those formed on steep and very steep terrains, are highly susceptible to water erosion. With the exception of granites and granodiorites which represent 29.4% of the main rocks in the area, the remaining base rocks are poorly or very poorly resistant to erosion, i.e. the prevailing rocks are parental, loosely bound, deeply cracked and severely metamorphosed. These rocks weather quickly and are destroyed by the weather. The territories of the Cherni Vit, Ribaritsa, Troyan, Cherni Osam, Apriltsi, and Rositsa areas, occupying the northern slopes of the Park, are not eroded. There is very limited erosion in these parts of. Erosion processes in the southern parts of the Park are observed in the forests of Pirdop, Klisura, Rozino, and Karlovo. This is predominantly surface erosion and, to a lesser extent, deep erosion, or erosion of temporarily flowing waters. The strengthening facilities erected under the National Long-Term Erosion Control Program in the Republic of Bulgaria (1978) help in the reduction of storm-water flows in the Park. Management Plan

46 20 There is more severe erosion in the treeless zone above the upper forest line (the high mountain pastures and meadows). The following areas in the northern part of the high-mountain treeless zone are affected by erosion: Below Kartala peak (above the Momina Polyana chalet); Below Bratanitsa peak (around the Benkovski chalet); Below Ushite peak; Around the localities Izshilenata Barchina and Pladneshki Yarove; Around Tazha chalet; Around Levski peak (Ambaritsa); Around peak Mlechni Chal. The southern part of the high-mountain treeless zone is subject to stronger erosion caused by a large percentage of slopes with southern components and high inclination, and in certain sections, by the crowding of livestock during grazing. The following areas are affected by erosion: Below Zhalni peak and Lepenyat peak; Below Botev peak; Below Triglav peak; Below Zli Dol (Mazalat) peak; The Labodalaka locality; The Chervenata Glina locality; The Dobrila locality; The Goral Tepe locality; Around the Beklemeto pass. Road construction toward the Botev peak radio-transmission station has caused very serious damage to the topsoil. Significant erosion also exists along the high-voltage power lines and from motor vehicles driven outside the roads. Erosion is decreasing in some of the treeless zone terrains, by the gradual invasion of grass or brush vegetation (juniper, whortleberry etc.). This favorable trend is mainly due to reduced grazing in the area. Management Plan

47 BIOTIC CHARACTERISTICS 3.1. HABITAT DIVERSITY IN THE PARK To date, habitat diversity has not been the subject of systematic studies in the Park. According to literary data (1997), the CORINE Biotopes Program has identified 54 habitat types of varying classes in the Central Balkan site. These are noted in Appendix No. 4. The diversity of habitat types is extremely high throughout the CORINE site area, particularly in itself. Twenty-four of these areas are included in the List of European Endangered Habitats under the EU Habitats Directive, placing the Park particularly high in the Pan-European Ecological Network - NATURA The conservation of these 24 habitats is, in effect, the implementation of the EU legislation in Bulgaria long before its becoming an EU member PLANT COMMUNITIES Six vegetation belts exist entirely or are represented partially in Central Balkan National Park. These include (1) xerothermic oak forests, (2) xeromesophyllic and mesophyllic oak and hornbeam forests, (3) a beech belt, (4) a coniferous belt, (5) a sub-alpine open woodland belt of dwarf pine and juniper brush (sub-alpine belt), and (6) Alpine belt. With regard to phyto-geography, the Park area is included in the Central Balkan District of the Ilyrian Province, of the European Deciduous Forest Area. The comprehensive phytocenological study of the Central Stara Planina Mountain area was initiated with a study of the high-mountain treeless zone and of certain representative areas in the forest zone. Therefore, the diversity of plant communities in the National Park is not completely known. There are thirteen natural tree vegetation formations, seven cultivated tree-species formations and three secondary grass community formations described in the forest zone of the Park. The total diversity of plant communities is related to 150 plant associations. These transects in the forests in the western, central and eastern sections of the Park include thirteen tree, two brush and ten secondary grass formations of the natural vegetation. The total diversity of plant communities in the studied transects can be related to 69 plant associations. Furthermore, forty syntaxonomic units or various ranking under the Braun-Blanke classification have been described in the Boatin, Tsarichina and Steneto reserves. The forest communities in the National Park are represented mainly by broad-leaf, high-stem forests, occupying 72.8% of the forest fund. The coniferous tree species occupy 15.7% of the area. Management Plan

48 22 The average age of the broad-leaved forests is 123 years, and of the coniferous 95. The average density is 0.72, and the timber stock amounts to 7, cubic meters. Fifty-two plant formations have been described in the high-mountain treeless zone. The diversity of plant communities covers approximately 300 plant associations. Although incomplete, the accumulated information shows an exceptional phytocenotic diversity. Xerotherm Oak Forest Belt This belt covers the lowest sections of the Park in the height range between meters above sea level, reaching as high as m above sea level in certain locations. This belt occurs exclusively on the southern slopes, mainly in the lands of the villages Skobelevo, Tazha, Karlovo, and Karnare. The elements of the xerothermal oak forests and their resulting brush and grass communities are presented in a fragmentary fashion, and, as a whole, have an insignificant role in the building up of the vegetation cover. Tree communities are dominated by Cerris oak (Quercus cerris), Italian oak (Quercus frainetto), and pubescent oak (Quercus pubescens). These species generally cover small areas in different sections of this belt. They are all coppices, with a limited habitat formation role. The larger areas of felled oak forests are occupied by secondary community formations of oriental hornbeam (Carpinus oriientalis) and grass communities domineered by beard grass (Chrysopogon gryllus), by Poa bulbosa, and various thyme species (Thymus sp. div.). Furthermore, this belt includes well-represented hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia) and isolated occurrences of Austrian pine (Pinus nigra). The compact associations of red juniper (Juniperus oxycedrus) are also interesting. Oriental hornbeam occupies an area of 1,108.4 ha at an average age of 60 years and plays a significant anti-erosion role. Other species such as flowering ash, Tatarian maple, hornbeam play the same role. Nearly nine per cent of the oriental hornbeam trees are older than 100 years. The restoration processes in the forests of this belt are hindered by both the weather and the rich and dense grass varieties under the canopy. The slow restoration of these forests is favorable and an incentive for the development and spreading of valuable grass species of significance for conservation. The anthropogenic impact on the processes of succession in the xerothermal oak belt is strong. The coppice forest management and the grazing of livestock, particularly goats, have lead to severe deforestation and, in certain locations, to erosion. The trees in such locations feature severely malformed and stunted crowns formed by the biting off of the leading shoots and young twigs by domestic animals. This belt features many plant endemic and relict species. The following habitats in this belt are of high significance for conservation: Management Plan

49 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK FOREST VEGETATION AND THE TREELESS ZONE The map reflects the available information about vegetation in the Park. It presents the coniferous, deciduous, mixed forests and the treeless zone in the forest fund and the entire treeless zone in the Park. The treeless zone includes predominantly highmountain meadows and pastures. The remaining object classes are the same as in the base map. The map was based on data of the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program (for the treeless zone) and of Agrolesproject, Ltd. (for the forest fund). Forests occupy 56% of the entire area of the park. A significant part of the forest area (86%) is occupied by broad-leaved trees, and approximately 44% of the entire park area is covered with beech forests. Coniferous forests occupy a limited area mainly in the high western and eastern sections of the Park. Mixed forests are significantly smaller in size. The treeless zone covers approximately 44% of the Park area, and mainly grass communities are represented there. LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter Peaks with Elevation and Name Reserve Coniferous Forest Deciduous Forest Mixed Forest Treeless Zone

50

51 23 River-edge (non-intermittent) rocky sections on karst base; Vertical rocky grass massifs with complex, dissected surface. Xeromesophyllous and Mesophyllous Oak and Hornbeam Forest Belt This belt covers the low sections of the Park (up to approximately m above sea level), mainly along the southern slopes. It occupies limited areas, but because of the particular location of the Park boundary by height, is continuous (with small exceptions above the villages Sushitsa, Vasil Levski, Anton etc.). Prevalent in its formation are communities of Durmast oak (Quercus dalechampii), European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) and Oriental hornbeam (Carpinus orientalis). The oak forests occupy an area of 1,810 ha. The oriental hornbeam reaches as high as 1,500 m above sea level in certain locations and is part of the upper forest line. The European hornbeam occupies an area of 1,508 ha, and the territories covered by it are mainly along valleys and mountain streams. Also, individual plantations of alien tree species (honey locust, acacia) occur in this belt, as well as species of alien geographic origin (Austrian and Scots pine plantations). Flowering ash (Fraxinus ornus), silver lime (Tilia tomentosa), and hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia) formations are present to a lesser extent. Scattered throughout different parts of the belt are fragments of brush communities and groups that occupy the outskirts of forests, in some riparian terraces, or along roadside sections. These are domineered by hazel (Corylus avellana), dog rose (Rosa canina), and sloe (Prunus spinosa). The oak and hornbeam forests felled in the past have been replaced by secondary grass communities of bracken (Pteridium aquilinum), beard grass (Chrysopogon gryllus) and common bent-grass (Agrostis capillaris). The prevalent natural tree communities in this belt are coppice, with a heterogeneous horizontal structure. The diversity of biotic and abiotic factors creates favorable conditions for the development of diverse flora. The Oriental hornbeam communities play a crucial ecological role despite their low exploitation value. Oriental hornbeam is a relict species. These occur only in South-eastern Europe, and are an item of European interest. They play an important anti-erosion role as well. Also, the communities of silver lime and water hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia), especially attractive in bloom, possess cenotic value. Restoration processes in the forests flow at a normal rate, despite the severe draughts during the period Successful restoration is due mainly to the abundant and regular seeding of the water hornbeam and the European hornbeam. This belt features a comparatively high level of plant endemic and relict species. The following habitats are high in conservation value: Stream-edge terrains on karst base; Rocky forest areas on karst base. Management Plan

52 24 Beech Forest Belt This belt includes the mid-mountain parts of the National Park in the height range between 800 and 1,600 m above sea level. It is almost uniformly spread on both sides of the National Park ridge, and in several locations it provides a territorial south-north connection (Kelkaya Gerdek Tepe, Karchov Preslap, Tazha etc.). It is continuous and clearly compact, and in some locations the beech forests form massifs spanning 1,000 3,000 ha (the reserves Severen Dzhendem, Steneto, Stara Reka, Peeshti Skali). The dominant species throughout the belt is the European beech (Fagus sylvatica) whose formation is the most wide-spread in the Park. Covering 44% of the Park, the beech forests and the forests in immediate proximity to the Park cover approximately 60,000 ha and represent Europe s broadest, most compact and relatively least affected by anthropogenic impacts, massifs of the species. The average age of the beech communities in the Park is 135 years, and on an area of 18,106 ha, they are older than 100 years. The area of European beech forests is 28,522 ha, and the purely beech communities cover 22,500 ha. In general, the beech forests in the Park are in good condition. Predominant are communities of seed origin and in stands of high density. Their horizontal structure is comparatively regular, with crown canopies between 0.7 and 0.8. The diverse habitats enable rich floral development and presence of rare plant species. Despite the relatively good condition of the beech forests, long economic exploitation (mainly grazing and felling) can be witnessed in some locations. The open beech seed forests are invaded by heliophylic and xerophylic species, and by certain anthropophytic species. This changes the character of the natural components and their biological diversity. Also, this creates conditions for reduction and deterioration of water regimes in this belt, and in the Park in general. The tree stories frequently include many deciduous and, less frequently, coniferous tree species, but the role of co-dominant species in the first story and subdominant in the second story is comparatively rarely held by sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), Balkan maple (Acer heldreichii), Norway maple (Acer platanoides), and silver fir (Abies alba). Typical within the beech belt are stands occupied by silver fir (Abies alba) on 2, ha. These stands extend over significant areas along the northern slopes, but are also present, although segmented, along the southern mountain slopes. Alongside the mixed fir and beech forests, these communities impart a high aesthetic value to the natural landscape. Of limited occurrence in the belt are the formations of ash (Fraxinus excelsior), sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), witchwood (Sorbus aucoparia), European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), and Austrian pine (Pinus nigra). The brush species reaching dominant role with their numbers are laurel cherry (Laurocerasus officinalis), hazel (Corylus avellana), raspberry (Rubus idaeus), spirea (Spirea ulmifolia), and whortleberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). Forming along mountain streams and rivers are open tree and grass communities with frequent hydrophytic tall-grass species, such as cirisum (Cirsium appendiculatum), shepherd s purse (Petasites albus), adenostyles (Adenostyles alliaria), lady s mantle (Alchemilla sp.) etc. There is a significant Management Plan

53 25 diversity of plant associations based on well-developed grass stories where the role of sub-dominant species is played by a large range of species such as wood barley (Hordelymus europaeus), bushgrass (Calamagrostis arundinacea), oryzopsis (Oryzopsis virescens), mountain fescue (Festuca montana), common woodrush (Luzula luzuloides), greater woodrush (Luzula sylvatica), touch-me-not (Impatiens noli-tangere), lady-fern (Athyrium filix-femina), male fern (Dryopteris filix-mas), wood stitchwort (Stellaria nemorum), bedstraw (Galium odoratum), Adenostyles alliaria, sanicle (Sanicula europaea), geranium (Geranium macrorhizum) etc. No grass cover develops in areas where tree crowns form close canopies and communities are attributed to the Fagus sylvatica - subnudum association, also widespread. The secondary grass communities formed in the place of felled beech forests feature significant diversity and wealth of species. These are dominated by common bentgrass (Agrostis capillars), cock s foot (Dactilys glomerata), sesleria (Sesleria latifolia), black fescue (Festuca nigrescens), brown bent-grass (Deschampsia caespitosa), bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) etc. Artificial forest plants such as spruce, Scots pine, Douglas fir, European larch, Weimouth pine, Austrian pine, birch etc. have been introduced on small areas. Their total area amounts to 1,550.1 ha, or 2.1% of the total park area. Some plantations are the result of attempts to increase the upper forest line during the 70 s. Most of the plantations have been established in difficult to restore forests, opened or clear areas, and less frequently to reconstruct low-productivity forests. These plantations have not substantially changed the balance between tree species in the belt. This belt can be considered one of very high conservation value to the Park. The beech belt components of particular significance for conservation include: All beech communities older than 100 years; Communities of beech with laurel cherry undergrowth; The mixed fir and beech forests, and the purely fir forests; Beech and European hornbeam communities mixed with Balkan maple; Natural Austrian pine forests; Rock formations with rare plant species; Teak communities; Beech forests around springs. Coniferous Belt The coniferous forests are fragmentary, and do not form a continuous belt inside the Park. The most widespread formation in this belt is that of the spruce (Picea abies) forming massifs isolated from one another, in and around the reserves Boatin and Tsaritchina, between peaks Gerdektepe and Ambaritsa, Stara Reka reserve and Dzhendema reserve. The area covered by spruce forests is 1,660.9 ha. The average age of the trees in the belt is approximately 120 years. The spruce communities in the Tsarichina reserve are in a stabilized state of succession and may be used as model for restoration of the remaining habitats, most of which bear the marks of intensive use - disturbed horizontal structure and reduced density of tree-stands. Management Plan

54 26 Most frequently, subdominant in the spruce forests are bushgrass (Calamagrostis arundinacea), common woodrush (Luzula luzuloides), sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), and, of the low brush species, whortleberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). Sections opened after felling have become grounds for fragmentary community groups of Chamenerium angustifolium, groundsel (Senecio nemorensis), raspberry (Rubus idaeus), whortleberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), etc. The section between the peaks Kartala and Yumruka is the world s most northern and the only habitat in the Stara Planina mountains of the Balkan endemic species Rumelian pine (Pinus peuce). Most Rumelian pine communities are inside Tsaritchina reserve and are highly vital, with good natural restoration, and exhibiting trends toward occupying larger areas in the higher parts of the slopes. By nature, the Rumelian pine is a pioneer species adapted to harsh conditions of the high mountain. A similar, although weaker trend is also observed in the spruce forests around Kumanitsa and Stara Reka. These were probably the two species most significant in the composition of the high-mountain forests and in the formation of the upper forest line in the Central Stara Planina. In general, the coniferous forest communities in the Park represent sustainable, stable natural ecosystems, whose spacious areas allow them to manifest their self-regulating capacity. Sub-Alpine Belt This belt is observed along the upper forest boundary, between 1,500 and 1,850 m., as high as the mountain ridge. It does not extend to the highest peaks. Approximately 300 plant associations have been established in a special study of the vegetation in the sub-alpine belt, which is an exceptional diversity of phytocenoses. The vegetation cover of this belt consists of widespread brush formations of Siberian juniper (Juniperus sibirica), whortleberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), and Bruckenthalia spiculifolia. The following representatives of this same group are less widespread: raspberry (Rubus idaeus), dwarf pine (Pinus mugho), and bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi). A wide range of grass species formations in which cereal plants prevail are also noted. Particularly interesting is the dwarf pine whose only known location in the Middle Stara Planina mountains is in the Park. The presence of the species in the mountain massifs to the north (the Carpathians) and to the south (Rila, Pirin), and the wellpreserved localities in the Western Stara Planina mountains are evidence of its significant presence in the past. The dwarf pine is an excellent natural element with snow-retention, anti-erosion and anti-avalanche properties and plays an important role in the regulation of the water flow. The limited distribution and the good condition of the species in the zone of sub-alpine rare forests, brush and grass communities above the upper forest line indicate a need for protection and support for its natural spreading. Management Plan

55 27 The vegetation cover of this belt has sustained complex succession changes due to intensive grazing in the past, resulting in sustainable mat grass (Nardus stricta) communities on vast areas. Grazing and artificial fires have limited the spreading of Siberian juniper. Severely reduced, and in many cases completely discontinued, grazing has lead to new succession changes in vegetation during the recent decades. The mat grass communities have given way to a wide range of various grass associations. Siberian juniper occupies new territories. It is realistic to expect that the juniper brush may cover most of the high-mountain treeless zone for the coming decades. Several specific community groups in the sub-alpine zone deserve special conservation and maintenance care and are related to: Rock formations and communities, particularly in lime-stone areas, where groups of many rare plant species are observed; Communities of the Balkan endemic species: Balkan fescue (Festuca balcanica), long-leaf fescue (Festuca valida), fescue (Festuca stojanovii), sesleria (Sesleria comosa), Rila fescue (Festuca riloensis); The rare and very vulnerable communities with Rhododendron myrtifolium, lion s paw (Leontopodium alpinum), mountain avens (Dryas octopetala); Brook-side habitats and humid areas around streams, where specific hydrophilic and hydrophytic species are present. The lake Saragyol ought to be attributed to this group; Alpine Belt The alpine vegetation belt is noticeably fragmented in limited areas along the highest ridges and peaks (the peaks of Botev, Vezhen, Ambaritsa, Triglav etc.) Typical alpine vegetation representatives are the formations of bog whortleberry (Vaccinium uliginosum), bent-grass (Agrostis rupestrtis), rush (Juncus trifidus) and sedge (Carex curvula), where 34 plant associations have been recorded CHARACTERIZATION OF THE FORESTS General Characteristics In accordance with Order No. 396/ , the forest fund (FF) in the National Park spans 44,000.8 ha, which represents 61% of the area of the Park. This comprises 1.1% of Bulgaria s forest fund. The area covered by forests covers 40,043.8 ha (91% of the FF in the Park and 1.2% of the forests in Bulgaria). The forests occupy 56% of the entire area of the Park. The area from which timber can be produced is 40,492.0 ha (92% of the FF), the remaining is 3,508.8 ha. The tables with information about forests are presented in Annex No 5. Management Plan

56 28 Regarding the main Stara Planina ridge, the FF territory is evenly distributed on both the northern and southern sides, with 1/2 in the Moesian and 1/2 in the Thracian forest vegetation areas, respectively. Forests of natural origin in the National Park are approximately 97%. Most of them are affected by human activity to various degrees. The average age of forests in is 111 years. The average age of the broad-leaved forests is 121 years, and of the coniferous 95 (with the average age of forests in Bulgaria being approximately 45). The lower average age of the coniferous forests is explained by the presence of coniferous plantations, the predominant use of coniferous timber in the past and by the high vulnerability of the coniferous forests by unfavorable factors mainly fire, heavy snow etc. The average productivity class is three and the average stand density is 0.7. The total timber reserve amounts to 9, m 3, which represents 2.3% of the forest stock in Bulgaria. The average timber stock is 250 m 3 /ha. Almost the entire afforested area (99%) is covered by seedling forests, of which 14% are coniferous. Forests cover 43.6 ha of the agricultural fund (AF) in the Park. Apart from being a forest formative species, beech occupies 28,522 ha (71% of the forests in the FF of the Park and 5.2% of the area of the beech forests in Bulgaria) with a reserve of 7, cubic meters (78.6% of the total forest stock in the Park and 6.6% of the beech forest stock in Bulgaria). Approximately 40% of the forests are strictly protected by being included in reserves, some of which have been declared as early as during the 1950s. Distribution of Forest Fund Area Covered by Forests Distribution by Tree Species The distribution by tree species is affected by both the vertical change of weather and soil condition and by the complex terrain, the exposure and the ecological requirements of species. There are 39 tree species, that comprise the forests in the National Park and which are subject to economic evaluation. Of these five species occur only in plantations Douglas fir, European larch, Weimouth pine, acacia and honey locust. Most of the forest area in the Park (86%) is occupied by broad-leaved tree species beech, hornbeam, durmast oak, great maple etc. The mixed forests consist mainly of beech and fir. The larger part of the coniferous forests consists of spruce and fir. Figures 6, 7 and 8 present the distribution of the area of tree species in the forests in the National Park. Management Plan

57 29 Other Deciduous 4% Scots Pine 1% Spruce 6% Fir 6% Other conifers 1% Beech 70% Oriental Hornbeam 3% Hornbeam 4% Oak 5% Figure 6. Per cent Distribution of Tree Species by Area Hornbeam 4% Oak 5% Ash 1% Oriental Hornbeam 3% Other Conifers 4% Rumelian Pine 3% Fir 47% Other Conifers 1% Scots Pine 5% Spruce 43% Beech 83% Austrian Pine 1% Figure 7. Distribution of the Area of Broad-Leaved Forests by Tree Species (in %) Figure 8. Distribution of the Area of Coniferous Forests by Tree Species (in %) Distribution by Tree Species and Age The natural lifespan of individual tree species, the origin and environmental conditions are the fundamental natural factors affecting the age of forests. For several thousands of years man has also affected the age structure and the composition of species of forest communities. Forests older than 100 years occupy 65% of the forest area. 58% of the coniferous forests and 66% of the broad-leaved forests are older than 100 years. If we assume the age as an indicator of naturalness, i.e. the oldest forests are those least affected by man, then the highest naturalness (highest scientific and nature conservation value) are the fir and beech forests. Management Plan

58 30 As noted above, the relatively low age of the coniferous forests is due to some extent to the spruce plantations, which are mainly 40 to 50 years of age (Figure 9). Coniferous < 100 6% Coniferous > 100 8% Deciduous < % Deciduous > % Figure 9. Distribution of Area Covered by Forests by Age Group Distribution of forests by age is shown in Figure 10 and percentile distribution of forests older than 100 years by species in table 4. Acacia Chestnut Sycamore Linden Elm Cerris Oak Beech Other Conifers Oriental Hornbeam Birch Aspen Ash Hornbeam Oak Area, ha Forests Below 100 Forests Above 100 Figure 10. Distribution of Area Covered by Broad-Leaved Forests by Age Group Table 4. Percentile Distribution of Forests Older than 100 Years by Species Tree species Forests older than 100 years (%) Firs Spruce Beech Hornbeam Conifers Broad-leaved Total Management Plan

59 31 Distribution by Terrain Exposure A total of 56% of the forests feature shady exposure. This ensures sufficient moisture content in the locations and is the main reason for the prominence of shade-resistant tree species in the National Park forests (Figure 11). N 18% NE 16% NW 16% E 12% SE 8% W 13% SW 7% S 10% Figure 11. Distribution of Forested Area by Terrain Exposure (%) Distribution by Altitude Approximately 60% of the forested area is concentrated at altitudes between 900 and 1,400 meters above sea level. The average altitude of the FF in the Park is 1,280 meters above sea level, which is the middle of the beech belt in Bulgaria and suggests optimal conditions for development of the species. The environment is suitable for the development of other species which can grow in mountainous and continental climate conditions such as spruce, and fir (Figure 12) Area (%) Alitude (meters) Figure 12. Distribution of Forests in by Altitude Management Plan

60 32 Distribution by Inclination The Forest Fund in the National Park includes steep slopes. Approximately 95% of the forests are on steep terrain with inclination of more than 21. Approximately 2/3 of the forests are on very steep terrain with inclination of more than 30. Distribution by Forest Habitat The large diversity of weather and soil conditions and also the complex terrain have formed various habitat types in the Park. Almost all plant habitats of the medium Moesian and Thracian forest vegetation belt are represented in the Park. An insignificant area of forests along the Balkan southern slopes is located in the Lower forest vegetation belt. Approximately half of the stock and the area of the forests in the National Park are located near habitats of sufficient moisture, and 86% of the forests do not suffer from insufficiency of nutrients or humidity. The main habitat type in the Park (approximately half of forest area) is of the C2 type medium rich, fresh soils. The rich habitats where most productive forest types occur and have very good rates of natural restoration occupy 32% of the area, and 40% of the forest stock is formed there. The plantations which are deficient in moisture or nutrients, poor rate of regeneration and low productivity occupy 13.3% of the area and 4.5% of the forest stock in. The adequate provision of moisture and nutrients in the habitats contributes to the good restoration and helps in the formation of sustainable (climax) forest communities and ecosystems. Distribution by Productivity Class The average productivity class of forests is III, and the highest productivity class is typical of the beech and spruce forests, while the lowest (V productivity class) is typical for hornbeam and European hornbeam. ІV 22% V 12% І 4% ІІ 27% ІІІ 35% Figure 13. Distribution of Forests in by Productivity Class in Percentage of the Forested Area Management Plan

61 33 Distribution of Timber Reserves of Forests in the Park The most significant presence in the forest biomass of that of beech (approximately 7.3 million m 3 ) and fir, whose stock is almost 1 million m % of the overall timber stock in the Park. Spruces, hornbeam and oak are other species, with more significant participation and stock amounting to 0.54, 0.15 and 0.1 million m 3. The annual growth varies in various habitats, most frequently between 2-4 m 3 /ha (Figure 14). Sycamore 0.4% Hornbeam 1.6% Oak 1.1% Other Deciduous 0.7% Scots Pine 0.5% Spruce 5.8% Fir 10.6% Other Conifers 0.6% Beech 78.6% Figure 14. Distribution of Stock by Tree Species Main Forest Formation Species It has been suggested that the intensive spreading of beech in the Stara Planina began five to six thousand years ago. Indeed, it is possible that the presence of the species in the Stara Planina mountains is due some extent to human intervention in the distant past (the destruction of the coniferous belt and the purposeful use of fir wood). As can be seen in Figure 15, the average age of the species is 135 years, covering more than 70% of the area which also accounts for approximately 80% of the total stock reserve. The average stock of the beech forests is approximately 265 m 3 /ha, and the annual growth varies between 2 and 4.5 m 3 /ha for various plant types. All this determines the enormous significance of the species and its communities as an important factor for the microclimate and the maintenance of the aquatic regime of the rivers in the Stara Planina mountains. Next to the beech, other more important forest formative species are the spruce (6% of the area), fir (6%), oaks (mainly durmast oak 5%), and European hornbeam (4%). Management Plan

62 34 Up to 40 years 9% years 5% Over 140 years 48% years 23% years 15% Figure 15. Distribution of Beech Forests by Age The restoration capacity in most of the beech belt is good. Exceptions are those plantations related to plant habitats such as C 1-2, on slopes of predominantly southern disposition, as well as plantations around the upper forest line. The main reasons for deteriorated restoration may be the changed grass cover, formation of turf (due to more intensive light) and lack of sufficient soil humidity. In many cases degradation of old plantations along the upper forest line is observed. The most frequent reasons are: rarifying of the tree stand; clarification; severe overgrowing with grass and turf formation; and reduced generative capacity. These processes are underlain by the general weakening of trees under the influence of abiotic and biotic factors. Sanitary Condition of Forests Despite the significant age and biological maturity of the forests in the Park, their condition is stable and satisfactory. No data are available for the level of defoliation for either individual species, or in general. The vulnerable species are the fir and the spruce. The former purposeful use of firs has increased the vulnerability of the species. The main problem is the high sensitivity of the species to humidity and to changes in the composition of atmospheric air. Global and local pollution and acid rain are also factors contributing to the reduced stability of the species. Since 1999, deterioration of sanitary conditions of the forests in the xerothermic oak belt has been observed. In , over-extensive breeding (calamity) of the browntailed moth caused serious damage to the forests of various oak species. No studies of the effect of this calamity on all environmental media have thus far been organized. Concerning the condition of beech trees, the most significant influence at present is that of global climate changes such as warming, drying, and ambient air pollution. The species are affected to a lesser extent by pests and by fungal diseases. In the past, damaging of undergrowth and of trees left standing during improper felling and removal were among the most significant factors causing conditions for deteriorated health of beech trees and overall condition of the ecosystem. Management Plan

63 FLORA Vascular Plants Diversity of Taxa and Nature Conservation Status An estimate of 2,337 vascular plant species and sub-species are found in Central Balkan National Park, as well as 1,900 vascular plant species and sub-species, 188 algae species and intraspecies Taxa, 229 moss species, 15 fern species - 1 club moss and lesser club moss species, and 3 horsetail species. This represents more than 50% of Bulgaria's diversity of these species. Six-hundred seventy six vascular plant species have been identified in the highmountain treeless zone of (1997). Six-hundred ninety seven vascular plant species are established in nine other representative zones (a complete list of the species with data about their distribution exists in the Parks Geographic Information System database). The Park contains a group of Taxa of high conservation value. It includes legally protected, local, Bulgarian and Balkan endemic species, the species in Bulgaria's Red Data Book, the European Red List, and the IUCN List of Endangered Species. (Appendix No. 6). Plants of significance for conservation are as follows: local endemic species (10), Bulgarian endemic species (10), Balkan endemic species (67), species protected under Bulgarian legislation (30), species included in Bulgaria s Red Data Book (81), species from European Red List (9), globally endangered species according to IUCN (10). Of the Taxa of certain value and deficiency, particular attention should be paid to the following species due to their vulnerability and attractiveness for collectors: anemone (Anemone narsissiflora) bear sanicle (Cortusa matthioli) sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea) dotted-flowered gentian (Gentiana punctata) lion s paw (Leontopodium alpinum) Mountain lily (Lilium jankae) Balkan butterwort (Pinguicula balcanica) Stara Planina primrose (Primula frondosa) rose-root (Rhodiola rosea) myrtle leaf (Rhododendron myrtifolium) Rhynochocorys (Rhynchocorys elephas) Sempervivum (Sempervivum erythraeum) globe flower (Trollius europaeus) Management Plan

64 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK LOCALITIES OF PLANT SPECIES OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR CONSERVATION The map presents the available information about the spatial distribution of rare, endemic, relict and endangered plant species in using only the data collected during field studies conducted as part of the GEF Project. The information is part of the database of the Geographic Information System of the Park, developed by the GEF Project. The results from the field work are presented in the compendium Biological Diversity in. It reflects the data on mushrooms, algae, mosses and higher plants. The marked localities do not exhaust the distribution of the respective category of plants throughout the Park. One reason for this is the fact that the botanical studies have covered only part of the area, with many parts of the Park remaining un-studied. The reserves are accepted as areas of high significance for conservation and the study will thus be oriented toward areas outside the reserves. Except for within Dzhendema reserve and certain sections of Stara Reka reserve, no botanical studies have been conducted under the GEF Project. Earlier studies, however, show that the composition of species and the distribution of plant species of significance for conservation in the reserves are substantial (in Tsarichina reserve alone, studies by St. Mihalik found 23 species of significance for conservation). LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area Reserve National Park Directorate Office Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter Peaks with Elevation and Name PLANT SPECIES OF CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE Habitat Endangered Rare Endemic Relict

65

66 36 Mosses Diversity of Taxa and Nature Conservation Status Although no special studies on the overall composition of moss species in the Park has been conducted, there is reason to believe that the moss flora of the Park is comparatively diverse and interesting. The available literature presents 229 species in the central Stara Planina Mountains. They represent 34% of the species and 62% of the families established in Bulgaria. The group of liverworts includes 62 species, 8 of which are rare, one species is vulnerable, and one is placed into the category of vulnerable species. The leafy mosses are 167 species with 15 rare and 2 vulnerable ones. Furthermore, additional 116 species have been found, two of which are included in the European Data Book of Mosses, and seven are in the list of mosses endangered in Bulgaria (Appendix No. 8). Algae Diversity of Taxa and Nature Conservation Status Lake Saragyol is poor in algae flora 5 species in total, representatives of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic algae. One of them, Osscillatoria ingrica, occurs only in the Park, and has, for this reason, been classified as rare and locally endangered with becoming extinct. A floral diversity of 15 taxa was established along the Malka, Golyama and Stara rivers, and the literature concerning the Cherni Osam river indicates 188 species and intra-species taxa of 77 genera. The limited data regarding the algae flora of rivers are insufficient for evaluation of their ecological condition MEDICINAL PLANTS Diversity of Taxa A total of 166 medicinal plant species have been established in Central Balkan National Park. Their total number represents 75% of the species widely used in official and traditional medicine. Of those one species is representative of lower plants, and the remaining 165 species are of higher plants. Most numerous are the families Asteraceae (19 species), Rosaceae (18 species), Lamiaceae (13 species) Liliaceae (7 species) and Scrophulariaceae (6 species). (Appendix No. 7) Distribution and Condition of Populations The medicinal plant populations in the Park occur in the belt of xeromesophyllous and mesophyllous beech, coniferous forests, and in the sub-alpine and alpine vegetation belts, and are active representatives in the tree, brush and grass phytocenoses. In many of these phytocenoses medicinal plants are dominant or subdominant, covering wide areas and the defining image of vegetation. These are Siberian juniper (Junuperus sibirica), bilberry and red whortleberry (Vaccinium Management Plan

67 37 myrtillus, Vaccinium vitis idaea), raspberry (Rubus idaeus), bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) bearberry (Arctostaphyllos uva ursi), bedstraw (Galium odoratum) etc. Others are limited in their distribution but are largely significant for conservation such as snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis), yellow and dotted-flowered gentian (Gentiana lutea and G. punctata), rose-root (Rhodiola rosea), etc. The different habitats determine the differences in composition of medicinal plant species and in their biological and exploitable reserves. The diversity of medicinal plant species is highest in the beech and coniferous belts their populations are of vital importance and they exhibit good biological and exploitable reserves. These two belts cover large areas occupied by wild thyme (Thumus sp. div.), St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca), raspberry (Rubus idaeus), eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis complex), common speedwell (Veronica officinalis), cowslip (Primula veris), species of the genus lady's mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris complex), mouse-ear hawkweed (Hieratium pilosella) etc., and occurs predominantly in mountain meadows and pastures. In the sub-alpine belt, these species are in addition to the dominant and sub-dominant species listed above and comprising the vegetation cover Siberian juniper (Juniperus sibirica), bilberry and red whortleberry (Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis idaea), slender false-brome (Polygonum bistorta), and bracken (Pteridium aquilinum). Widely occurring under the beech forest canopy are hazel (Corylus avellana), bedstraw (Galium odoratum), ramsons (Allium ursinum), common geranium (Geranium macrorhizum), and, in coniferous forests, bilberry and red whortleberry (Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis idaea), raspberry (Rubus idaeus), common geranium (Geranium macrorhisum) etc. Xerophytic and mesophytic medicinal plants prevail in the meadows and pastures in the alpine zone and on the steep slopes and vertical rocks, some of which exhibit significant resource capacity. These are Irish moss (Cetraria islandica), red whortleberry and bilberry (Vaccinium vitis idaea, V. myrtillus), species of lady's mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris complex), species of eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis), species of wild thyme (Thymus sp.) etc. The medicinal plants in this belt require special nature conservation measures since it includes a large number of endangered and rare medicinal species such as yellow and dotted-flowered gentian (Gentiana lutea, G. punctata), the rare species lady's mantle (Alchemilla sp.) included in Bulgaria's Red Data Book, bearberry (Arctostaphyllos uva ursi), and rose-root (Rhodiola rosea). One group of medicinal plant species prefers higher soil and air humidity and occupy the moist gorges of rivers, brooks or northern vertical slopes and troughs. These are polipody and male fern (Polypodium vulgare, Dryopteris filix mas), marsh marigold (Caltha palustris), wild angelica (Angelica pancici, A. sylvestris), cow parsnip (Heracleum sibiricum) etc. These plants, however, are limited due to their specific ecological requirements. Management Plan

68 38 There is a number of rare anthropopytic and pioneer species related to human presence on and near roads, trails, chalets, shelters etc. Some of them, such as ribwort plantain and greater plantain (Plantago lanceolata, P.major), common wormwood (Artemisia vulgaris), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara), sorrel (Rumex acetosa), and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) have disappeared after restoration of indigenous grass vegetation. More important and influential to the native vegetation are the secondary plant communities originating near chalets: bee-hives, sheep-pens and other areas of human intervention. Such plant communities exist in many locations in. In these habitats significant medicinal plant resources are concentrated in relatively small areas, where their mainly vegetative propagation creates favorable conditions for rapid restoration after exploitation. The medicinal plants in these communities, such as monk's rhubarb (Rumex alpinus), stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), mullein (Verbascum longifolium), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) are very abundant and have significant exploitable reserves. Because of the high biological diversity and the plentiful resources of many medicinal plants in, their habitats as vital for the lasting conservation of their gene pool in situ. At the same time, the sub-alpine belt and the oak and hornbeam forest belt provide good opportunities for sustainable use of some of these species. Despite the large number of medicinal plants, the alpine treeless belt is highly vulnerable, because of the high number of species of significance for conservation. Taxa of Significance for Nature Conservation Bulgaria s Red Data Book lists 22 medicinal plant species approximately 2.8% of all species included in it. Four species are classified as endangered and 18 are classified as rare in the Bulgarian flora. The Nature Protection Act protects five species, which includes protected and rare medicinal plant species. In many of the populations of yellow and dotted-flowered gentian (Gentiana lutea, G. punctata), lady's mantle (Alchemilla mollis), sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), rose-root (Rhodiola rosea) etc., significant reduction of the numbers and occupied area can be observed, caused mainly by various anthropogenic factors. Sixteen medicinal plant species under special regime of management and use have been established, since some representatives of the complex of species of lady's mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris complex), columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris), deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) etc. are rare species, occurring as singular specimens. Several medicinal plant species occurring in are included in the CITES List. These are snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) and several species of the genus orchis, represented as Orchis sp. div.(orchis coriophora, O. laxiflora, O. mascula, O. morio, O. pallens, O. simia, O. tridentata ). Unfortunately, very little is known about this group of species of significance for conservation. Management Plan

69 39 The above mentioned species, as well as Irish moss (Cetraria islandica), bearberry (Arctostaphyllos uva ursi), yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea) fir clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum) are on the list of endangered medicinal plants indicated by the European Union in Regulation (EC) No 338/97. (Medicinal species, listed in the annex of Regulation (EC) 338/97 ) 3.6. MACROMYCETTES Diversity of Taxa and Nature Conservation Status The scientific literature provides very scarce data about the distribution of this specific group in the Park only 33 Taxa. An additional 256 species were established in six of the reserves in the Park (116 genuses, 48 families, 15 orders). The complete list of Taxa and their distribution by eco-trophic groups and by economic value groups are presented in the Park database. During the study, a proposal for a Red List of Mushrooms in was proposed, with five categories for endangered species and ten for rare species. (Appendix No. 9) FAUNA Invertebrates The faunal diversity of invertebrate animals in was evaluated through model groups: Protozoa, round worms (Nematoda), Tardigrada, spiders (Arachnida), multipedes (Myriapoda), insects (Insecta), and mollusks (Mollusca). Diversity of Taxa Of the above groups, the Park contains 2,387 species and sub-species, including 261 rare (stenotopic) species, 168 endemic species, 108 relict species, 36 species included in global and European lists of endangered species, IUCN (19), CORINE (21) and ten species protected in Bulgaria. Their distribution by individual group is presented in Appendix No. 10. However, this number of species represents only approximately 45% of the 6,500-7,000 species believed to be in the area (Appendix No. 11). The assessment and analysis of the data for individual groups show that the Troyan and Zlatishko-Tetevenska mountains are best studied, while the Kaloferska Mountain is less so and the data less abundant. The distribution of invertebrate fauna by vegetation belts is also irregular. The highest diversity of species is characteristic of the beech forest belt. The fauna of mesophyllous mixed forests, coniferous forests and sub-alpine areas is typically almost half as diverse (Appendix No. 11). Management Plan

70 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK LOCALITIES OF ANIMAL SPECIES OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR CONSERVATION The map presents a summary of the available information contained in the Geographic Information System developed by the GEF Project for spatial distribution of rare, endemic, relict and endangered invertebrate and vertebrate animals in Central Balkan National Park. The endemic species category includes Bulgarian and Balkan endemic species. Only the localities established during the studies indicated in the text are marked. The results from the field work are presented in the compendium Biological Diversity in. A significant part of the Park area has not been the subject of special study with regard to the respective species. The area of the reserves was assumed as an area of high significance for conservation so the study was directed to areas outside the reserves. Although singular localities of species of significance for conservation have been identified in the reserves, the distribution of these species there is much broader than is presented here. Furthermore, some large animal species inhabit significant areas which cannot be marked with the utilized symbols. LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area Reserve National Park Directorate Office Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter Peaks with Elevation and Name ANIMAL SPECIES OF CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE Habitat Rare Endemic Relict Endangered

71

72 40 Taxa of Conservation Significance The conservation values of various habitats aiming to successfully conserve invertebrate fauna are established based on the criteria of the Bern Convention: diversity of species and populations, and available rare (stenotopic), endemic, relict and endangered species (included in the Global or the European Red Data Book). Of all species established in the Park, 485 are of conservation value and 29 of these are threatened. Rare (Stenotopic) Taxa: A total of 224 Taxa in the Park are regarded as rare (stenotopic) (Appendix No. 11 and Appendix No. 12). Their distribution by groups is presented in Fig Protozoa Nematoda Arachnida Myriapoda Insecta Mollusca % Number of species Figure 16. Rare Invertebrate Animals in Rare (stenotopic) species were established in almost all sections of the Central Balkan, but the highest numbers occur in the Troyan Pass area - Dobrila Chalet (59), Karchov Preslap - Troyan Pass (44), Zavodna - Karchov Preslap (41). Their percentage is highest in the case of spiders (Araneae) (42%). The percentage of rare species is high in caddis flies (Trichoptera) (35.9%) the available data show 23 rare species. Rare Taxa do not exceed 10% in other groups but there are species in all groups with very particular habitats niches in the mountains. Endemic Species - The total number of endemic species found in Central Balkan is 167. The endemic species are diverse in origin and represent a heterogeneous group. Highest in number are the Balkan species (86), followed by the Bulgarian (52) and local (29) endemics. The highest numbers of endemics occur in the areas around Botev Peak (55), followed by the area between Karchov Preslap and Troyan Pass (50), and between Troyan Pass and Dobrila Chalet (50). The distribution of endemic species by groups is presented in Fig. 17. Some of the smaller groups feature a very high per centage of endemic species (Myriapoda 30.5 %, Orthoptera 28.0%, Plecoptera 25.0%, Mollusca 23.3 %), while the rest rarely exceed 13 (Opiliones 13.3 %, Trichoptera 13.2%, Coleoptera 9.3%, Araneae 4.0 %, Lepidoptera 3.6% Heteroptera 3.0%, Nematoda 2.4%, Diptera 1%). Management Plan

73 41 Most endemic species have been found in the beetle group (Coleoptera). The highest number of endemic species of this group (48) has been found around Kalofer Mountain and around Botev Peak (24). Richest in endemic Taxa (26) is the beech forest belt. Most regional endemic species (6) are those in the sub-alpine vegetation belt Nematoda Arachnida Myriapoda Insecta Mollusca % Number species Figure 17. Endemic Invertebrate Species in (the first row shows their percentage presence) Next is the Mollusca group where 21 endemic species have been established: with three local, eight Bulgarian and ten Balkan species. The following local endemic species have the highest conservation values: Bulgarica pagana bulgarica, occurring in the middle of Stara Planina; Lindbergia uminskii, known from the northern foothills of Vezhen peak, the upper flow of the Vit River, the Cherni Osam river and the Pticha Dupka cave; and Milax verrucosus, found along the upper flow of the Cherni Osam river to the south of Teteven. Also, there is a large number of endemic species in the Myriapoda group represented by 18 endemic species: with five local, six Bulgarian and seven Balkan species. Cave habitats are particularly important to many of the Araneae endemic species. The percentage of endemic Taxa of invertebrates is not insignificant (7%) and suggests the Stara Planina mountains as a speciation center. Relict Species - The total number of relict species found in Central Balkan is 107 and their distribution by class is presented in Figure Arachnida Myriapoda Insecta % number of species Figure 18. Relict Species Distribution by Class Management Plan

74 42 Endangered Species Significant numbers of endangered species are identified in the Park. These comply with various national and international endangered species classification systems. They are divided in the following individual groups: Endangered Species of Global and European Red Data Books Araneae: Eresus cinnaberinus found only in the Bash Mandra area (IUCN). Orthoptera: Odontopodisma rubripes found surrounding the Dermenkaya and Mazalat chalets (IUCN); Metrioptera domogledi (IUCN); O.rubripes, in the Karlovo area (IUCN); Mantis religiosa, found above Karlovo (CORINE). Coleoptera: Calosoma sycophanta found in the area around Botev Peak (IUCN, CORINE); Carabus intricatus Haidushka Pesen chalet, Troyan Pass, Yavorova Laka and chalet Ravnets (IUCN, CORINE); Rosalia alpina Haidushka Pesen chalet (IUCN, CORINE); Osmoderma eremita Central Balkan (IUCN, CORINE). Neuroptera: Myrmeleon formicarius found near the Rai chalet and above Karlovo (IUCN, CORINE); Distoleon tetragrammicus found above Karlovo and near the Kalofer Monastery (IUCN, CORINE): Libelloides macaronius found above the Beli Osam village (IUCN, CORINE). These are considered the most interesting representatives of the order in Bulgaria, occurring in the mountains. The biotopes of the three species may be considered endangered. Hymenoptera: Formica lugubris found from Troyan Pass and Ravnets (IUCN, CORINE); Formica pratensis Retzius inhabits the Kozya Stena and the Beklemeto areas (CORINE); F. rufa found in the areas Paskal Chalet-Zavodna River, Karchov Preslap-Troyan Pass, and Ravnets to the springs of Tundzha River (IUCN, CORINE); F. transcaucasica, found in the region between Paskal chalet and Zavodna river (IUCN, CORINE); Liometopiuum microcephalum found in the area around Kostina River (CORINE); Polyergus rufescens around Kostina River (CORINE). Lepidoptera: Parnassius apollo bosniensis found on Kozya Stena, Botev Peak and around Rusaliski Pass (IUCN, CORINE); Polyommatus eroides from Kozya Stena and Botev Peak (IUCN, CORINE); Apatura iris iris found in Boatin Reserve (IUCN, CORINE); Boloria eunomia from Levski Peak, Botev Peak to Rusaliski Pass (IUCN, CORINE). Mollusca: Balea perversa established above Karlovo (IUCN, CORINE); Helix pomatia occurring around Troyan Pass and Rusaliski Pass (IUCN, CORINE). Protected Species The invertebrate species protected by the Bulgarian legislation and their distribution are described as follows: Coleoptera: Calosoma sycophanta around Botev Peak; C. inquisitor found in the area of Central Balkan, without a specific habitat; Procerus gigas found in the area Management Plan

75 43 Paskal Peak-Zavodna River, and Kaloferska Mountain; P. scabrosus found near Haidushka Pesen chalet; Rosalia alpina, found in the surroundings of Haidushka Pesen chalet; Lucanus cervus known from the area around Haidushka Pesen chalet. Lepidoptera: P. apollo bosniensis and the species Erebia rhodopensis found on Botev Peak. Vertebrates Thirty vertebrate species have been recorded in the Park during the last 211 years: 6 fish, 8 amphibians, 14 reptiles and more than 220 bird species (123 are nesting and occur only during the mating season) and 60 mammal species (Appendix No. 13). Diversity of Taxa Fish. Six fish species can be found in. The prevalent type of water bodies in the Park are streams and upper flows of rivers, which are, as a rule, poor in ichthyo fauna. Balkan trout (Salmo trutta fario) and minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus), have been noted in the Park, and along Cherni Osam river, at altitudes between m. On the Park boundary, individual species of miller s thumb (Cottus gobio) and Balkan barbel (Barbus meridionalis petenyi), are likely to occur, as well as the introduced rainbow trout (Salmo irideus). The species brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) no longer occurs here, their last representatives in the Zavodna (Beli Vit) river having been caught during the 70s. The Balkan trout is a European endangered species with a nationally significant population in the Park. Amphibians. There are eight amphibian species recorded in the Park. Apart from those species found in the past, the green toad (Bufo viridis) was more recentrly established. Some common species are the salamander (Salamandra salamandra) and the great common toad (Bufo bufo), as well as the agile frog (Rana dalmatina) and the European tree frog (Hyla arborea). The European tree frog is a globally endangered species, and the yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) and the common frog (Rana temporaria) have nationally significant populations in the Park. Reptiles. There are 14 reptile species in the Park. The Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) occurs below Vezhen Peak (Kasadzhika ridge), and Crimean lizard (Podarcis taurica) and snake-eyed skink (Ablepharus kitaibelii) have been sighted several times in the 1980 s along the Stara river above Karlovo, at altitudes of m). Horned viper (Vipera ammodytes) was found between 800 m. in the Boatin reserve to 1,700 m. above sea level along the southern slope of Vezhen peak. The Aesculapian snake (Elaphe longissima) is a regular species in old beech forests, reaching status of rare, and the green whip snake (Coluber caspius) is found only in two locations - the Boatin and in Stara Reka reserves above Karlovo. The grass snake (Natrix natrix) was found at altitudes reaching 1,300 m., while the dice snake (Natrix tessellata) very rarely reaches 700 m. along the Park rivers. The Aesculapian snake is a European endangered species, with a population of European significance in the Park, while the slow worm (Anguis ragilis), the viviparious lizard (Lacerta vivipara), the smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and the viper (Vipera berus) are with nationally significant populations. Management Plan

76 44 The high diversity of amphibians and reptiles in the reserves should also be noted: in Boatin 15 species, in Tsarichina 15 species, in Stara Reka 18 species. Birds. The total number of bird species in (including migrating, passing, peregrinating and occasional species), exceeds 224, but important for the purpose of the management plan are those inhabiting the Park during the nesting period. One hundred twenty-three bird species in the Park during the mating period have been found. Because of the habitat diversity, favorable ecological conditions and the geographic location of the Park, the Central Balkan is one of the most significant protected areas in Bulgaria for conservation of national populations of several nesting species. It is the breeding ground for vital populations of three of four typically Alpine species established in Bulgaria, and restricted by biome such as Alpine accentor (Prunella colaris), wall creeper (Tichodroma muraria) Alpine chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus) and the shore lark (Eremophila alpestris balcanica). There are bird species nesting in each of the three mountain sections, although they do not occur evenly through the Park. Approximately 75 to 90 species breed in the reserves Boatin, Tsarichina, Steneto and Stara Reka. Representatives of all 13 bird orders occurring in Bulgaria and 20 families of the most numerous order Passeriformes are established in the Park. Species originating in moderate latitudes of the northern hemisphere prevail in the ornithofauna of the National Park. The palearctic (47), European (16), European- Turkestanian (14) and Holarctic (12) species comprise 72% of all species in the Park. The group of southern birds (Mediterranean, Turkestanian-Mediterranean etc.) includes 12% of the total number of species. Mountain birds are particularly important. These include 43 species, the most typical among them being the four vulture species (including the species that has inhabited the area in the past and can be restored), the rock partridge (Alectoris graeca), the alpine swift (Apus melba), the shore lark (Eremophila alpestris balcanica), crag martin (Ptyonoprogne rupestris), the alpine chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus), the wall creeper (Tichodroma muraria), the dipper (Cinclus cinclus), the gray wagtail (Motacilla cinerea), the rock thrush (Monicola saxatilis), the ring ouzel (Turdus torquatus), the alpine accentor (Prunella colaris), the water pipit (Anthus spinoletta), the rock bunting (Emberiza cia), the winchat (Saxicola rubetra), the cross-bill (Loxia curvirostra), the siskin (Carduelis spinus), and the dunnock (Prunella modularis). The birds of the alpine biome are very well represented in the Park giving it global significance. Species of high significance for conservation are the globally endangered species, of which imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca) and corncrake (Crex crex) are found in the Park. Management Plan

77 45 Mammals. The mammals in the Park form three main groups bats, small mammals and large mammals. Bats (Chiroptera) Thus far, 18 bat species have been established in the Park which amounts to 60% of the total number of species in Bulgaria. It is very likely that a few more species may be discovered since a total of 23 bat species were established in and around the Park by the CORINE Biotopes project. Eight of the bat species in the Park are globally endangered, and all of the 18 established species are included in the EU Habitats Directive. Small Mammals - Small mammals includes the orders of Insectivores (Insectivora), Hares (Lagomorpha) and Rodents (Rodentia) with 8, 1 and 16 species, found in the Park, respectively. Little deviation in species composition of small mammals has been recorded in the last 17 years, suggesting stable populations are present in the Park. Eight of the species are globally endangered, such as the souslik (Spermophillus citellus) and the lesser mole rat (Nannospalax leucodon) both classified as vulnerable. Ten species have globally, European or nationally significant populations in the Park. Large mammals 17 large mammal species (Macromammalia) are registered in the Park, (Table 5, Appendix No 13). Large ungulates Field studies indicate that the numbers of red-deer (Cervus elaphus) are diminishing substantially. The chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) is also declining in number, density, and distribution, and the most significant cause for this change is the dramatic increase in poaching. In November and December 1999, National Park officials registered a mere 35 chamois in a population of not more than 80 individuals. Large predators - a total of nine wolf (Canis lupus) families have been established in the Park. They sustain themselves almost entirely in the Park during the mating period. The hunting territories of six families extend outside the Park as well. The area per wolf pack in the region is estimated at 10,000-12,000 ha, and, in rare cases, 7,000-8,000 ha. Wolves leave the high mountain following deer, and hunt mainly outside the Park in seasons of significant snowfall. For this reason, the preservation and control of wolf numbers is closely linked to zones around the Park. The Park is inhabited by a significant number of the Bulgarian bear population approximately 60 animals. They are known to breed and feed in the Park, seldom wandering outside Park boundaries except during seasonal intervals. Most of these movements are to the north. The observations by the NPD in show that there are 48 bears constantly inhabiting and 12 who are within the Park seasonally. Management Plan

78 46 Table 5. Area Occupied by Predators (Carnivora) and Ungulates (Artiodactyla) and their Numbers in (1999). Species Scientific name Altitude Habitat area (ha) Numbers Average area (ha per 1 individual) Wolf Canis lupus Fox Vulpes vulpes Bear Ursus arctos Badger Meles meles ?? European polecat Mustela putorius ?? Otter Lutra lutra km/river section Pine marten Martes martes Stone marten Martes foina ?? Wild cat Felis silvestris Wild boar Sus scrofa Red deer Cervus elaphus Roe deer Capreolus capreolus Chamois Rupicapra rupicapra < Endemic and Endangered Vertebrate Species The endangered status conforms to the IUCN Red List, the BirdLife International List of Endangered Bird Species in Europe, the Red Data Book of Vertebrates in Europe, Bulgaria's Red Data Book, and the European Bird Species Restricted by Biome. Seven mammal species and two bird species are vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List, and ten mammal species and one amphibian species are with a low risk of being endangered. Six mammal species, one reptile species and one fish species are endangered on European scale. Of the birds, four species are endangered, eight are vulnerable, seven are rare and 14 diminish in numbers or in area of occurrence in the region, while the area of distribution of four bird species is restricted within the Alpine biome. Fifteen species, other than some of the globally or Europe endangered species, appear in the national Red Data Book. There is a total of 80 species endangered at some level (24 mammals, 53 birds, 1 amphibian and 13 fish) (Appendix No. 13). There are 110 species in the Park with populations of conservation significance, or 52% of all the vertebrate species established there. Of these, 29 species (48%) are mammals, 72 (59%) are birds, 5 (36%) are reptiles, 2 (25%) are amphibians and 1 (17%) is fish. Thirteen species and sub-species (8 mammals and 5 birds) can be noted as species with globally significant populations in the Park. These are snow vole (Chionomis nivalis), souslik (Spermophilus citellus), lesser mole rat (Nannospalax leucodon), Bechstein's bat (Myotis bechsteinii), wild cat (Felis silvestris), common dormouse (Dryomis nitedula), hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius), Balkan chamois (Rupicarpa rupicarpa balcanica), semi-coloured flycatcher (Ficedula semitorquata), ring ouzel (Turdus torquatus), alpine accentor (Prunella collaris), shore lark (Eremophilla alpestris balcanica) and southern white-backed woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos lilfordii). Management Plan

79 47 The populations of thirteen mammal species (6 bats, 4 large and 3 small mammals), 25 bird species (13 song and 12 non-song birds) and one reptile species in the Park are of European significance. Of national significance for conservation are the populations in the Park of 8 mammal species, 42 bird species, 4 reptile species, 2 amphibian species and one fish species. A total of 140 species or 67% of all vertebrate animal species in the Park have some conservation value: 31 species are endangered globally, in Europe or nationally, 60 species have populations of significance for conservation, and 49 species are in both categories. These are 93 bird species, 38 mammal species, 5 reptile species, 3 amphibian species, and 1 fish species. Appendix No. 13 presents in a table the vertebrate species with conservation values ranging from average to very high. Appendix No. 14 presents species requiring priority conservation. Habitats of Conservation Significance The management plan attempts to unite the cenoses of different vertebrate animal groups by main habitat. This allows for a more comprehensive assessment of their conservation value. Old-growth beech forests. The beech forests in the Park are of global conservation significance as a habitat of vertebrate fauna. This forest massif where beech prevails provides conditions for breeding niches and feeding for 107 vertebrate species (6 reptilian and amphibian species, 57 bird species and 44 mammal species). This does not include 14 aquatic and water-edge species such as fish, frogs, grass snake, 3 bird species and 4 mammal species. These forests are the breeding grounds for 18 species which are globally endangered or globally significant (13 mammal species, 4 bird species and 1 amphibian species). Twenty-five species are endangered in Europe or are with Euro-conservation populations (9 mammal species, 15 bird species and 1 reptile species), and 29 species (5 mammal species, 21 bird species, 2 reptile species and 1 amphibian species) and are of conservation value at the national level. Coniferous Forests. Due to their minimal area in the Park and high altitude, the mountain, boreal-type, coniferous forests are occupied by much rarer vertebrate communities. The composition of vertebrate animals there includes 75 species of which 3 are amphibians and reptiles, 40 are birds, and 32 are mammals. Many species are represented by insignificant numbers of individuals. These forests are the main habitat of rare and endemic Taxa such as the southern sub-species of the white-backed woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos lilfordi) and remain an important part of the overall massif. Regarding the more mobile large mammals and birds, the coniferous forests cannot be separated from the fauna of the beech massif. Alpine and sub-alpine meadows. The global significance of the high-mountain zone of the Park is based on 7 mammal and bird species that are endangered globally, or with globally significant populations in the Park. These are the souslik (Spermophilus citellus), imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca) trophically connected to its colonies, snow Management Plan

80 48 vole (Chionomys nivalis), lesser mole rat (Nannospalax leucodon), chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), alpine accentor (Prunella collaris) and shore lark (Eremophilla alpestris balcanica). The sighting of corncrake (Crex crex) in 1998 has raised the conservation potential of the high-mountain habitats. Several mammals and birds of European significance are also related to the Alpine habitat types: golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and booted eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus), saker falcon (Falco cherrug), peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), rock partridge (Alectoris graeca), alpine chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus), wall creeper (Tichodroma muraria), and red deer (Cervus elaphus). A number of predators, ungulates, raptors and owls inhabiting the forests feed in the high-mountain habitats at altitudes above 1,850 m. Forty-two to 44 vertebrate species breed above the upper forest boundary, and 13 species feed in this zone regularly. Another species breed and/or feed in the treeless zone between 1,200 and 1,850 m above sea level. Canyons and Rock Formations. Special attention should be paid to the vertebrate animal communities in canyons and rocks in the forest zone where raptors nest, and where many bats and other mammals breed. Most of the species listed with regard to the Alpine rock habitats, also nest in canyons golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), saker falcon (Falco cherrug), alpine chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus), wall creeper (Tichodroma muraria) etc. The long-legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) an species endangered in Europe, and of conservation significance in the Park also nests there. Six globally endangered bat species inhabit the canyons and rock massifs. Management Plan

81 PEOPLE AND THE NATIONAL PARK 4.1. PARK USES Use of Forest Resources in Forest-timber resource use in the area presently occupied by the National Park has two main periods: historical use and more recent use. Historical use This period includes ancient times until the Liberation of Bulgaria in 1878, i.e. approximately the beginning of the twentieth century. Although detailed information does not exist, the main features of this period are intensive reduction in size of highmountain coniferous forests mainly due to intensive use and fire. In low-mountain forests, in the beech belt, coppice and limb removal was the typical manner of management. There are reasons to believe that the present horizontal and vertical structures of the forests in are largely the result of this human activity in the distant past. First available information of substantial use of resources date back to the 6 th 3 rd centuries BCE. During this time period large quantities of coniferous wood, mainly Austrian and Scots pine in the area of Beklemeto, Kurthisar, Stanchov Plugar etc., had been used. The timber was used to construct and repair high-mountain (more than 1,500 m above sea level) road-side stations and watch towers, buildings, mining supports, road construction and other facilities. Burning and cutting of the coniferous forests in ancient times has lead to the present fragmented locations of certain forests such as the Austrian pine, Scots pine, Rumelian pine forests. Burning of highmountain forests has lead to the development of active pasture livestock grazing, mainly in the massifs of Vezhen peak, the Triglav massif, the Beklemeto pass. The burning of tree vegetation during this period has lead to the contemporary location of the upper forest line at 1,300-1,700 m above sea level. Timber use in the distant past has led to the following important changes: Artificially lowered upper forest line; Changed composition of species and age structure on large forest massifs; Fragmented spreading and distribution of individual forest communities Austrian pine, Scots pine, dwarf pine, spruce, Rumelian pine; The change of habitat type from mixed to deciduous forests mainly due to selective use of fir. Management Plan

82 50 Recent Use This period includes the time from the beginning of the century until the present. During the first part of the century, mainly large-size coniferous timber was used. Typical of the second part of this period (from 1950s until the founding of the Park) are planned management, gradual and clear cutting on large areas, intensive use of mature beech forests, and purposeful replacement of beech trees with coniferous species not typical for these conditions. During the decade between 1936 and 1946, a total of 200,000 m 3 timber, mainly first class over 50 cm in diameter was produced in the Cherni Osam forestry enterprise alone. Following 1994, an overall inventorying of forests was carried out for the purpose of determining the complete capacities for use of timber and other auxiliary products. Until the time of nationalization (approximately 1950), felling had not been regularly carried out. The main forestry systems had been related to short-term and gradual, group shelterwood, two-stage and three-stage felling, and, although less frequently, group selection felling. The massive damage of underbrush in the carrying out of clear cutting in beech forests and the over-extensive rarifying of tree stands have been a frequent reason for the planting of coniferous species in cut areas. Administratively, the area of the National Park has been under the jurisdiction of 11 State Forestry Boards and 21 forest management sections (Appendix No. 15). In recent years, the use is in accordance with forest development projects and the measures provided for in them. Changes of species and intensity of felling are according to permission by the National Department of Forests. Other 26% Water Protection 21% Buffer Zones 3% Reserves 40% Anti-erosion 10% Figure 19. Distribution of Forest Area by Purpose (%) The late 1980s witnessed a period of increased intensity of felling. Predominantly selective cutting was carried out. Following the establishment of the National Park, all activities in the forests have been approved by the Ministry of Environment and its regional authorities. At present, the activities in forests are planned and organized by the National Park Directorate. Management Plan

83 51 Agricultural Use includes 27,558 ha of mountain pastures and 111 ha of meadowland. The 1991 order on the declaration of allows for grazing of any livestock (cows, sheep, horses) in the treeless zone, except for goats. For hundreds of years until the beginning of the century, a significant number of animals have grazed on the ridge of the Central Stara Planina mountains. Thousands of sheeps grazed on high-mountain pastures during the summer months. The closing of the borders with Greece and certain other factors contributed to the disappearance of the specific breeding practices of Karakachan shepherds, and significantly reduced the presence of livestock in the present National Park. In addition to this the impact of the agricultural collectivization imposed during the fifties decreased the use of highmountain pastures even further. The decrease in the numbers of cattle and sheep was particularly visible following the 1989 socio-political and economic changes. Most dairy farms in the mountains were abandoned or destroyed. Until approximately 15 years ago, animal farming was the main livelihood of the populations of most settlements in the area. Some of the larger industrial centers such as Troyan, Teteven, Sopot, and Karlovo are exceptions. Traditionally, northern municipalities took more animals to high-mountain pastures, compared to those in the south. During the recent years, however, a slight increase in the livestock grazing in the National Park has been observed. Currently, grazing is carried out in the highmountain pastures near the settlements, especially where there is water, good quality grass stands and possibilities for camps. Thus, the same pastures are visited by herds from several urban areas, and other more remote pastures are not visited at all. This has lead to irregular use of pastures and to under-grazing and over-grazing. In 1999, flocks of 15 shepherds and herders were taken in the Park. Studies of species and pasture quality in have shown that their nutritional value is significant. The mat-grass communities cover the broadest areas in the high-mountain treeless zone and are good for grazing at the early stages of their development if grazed regularly. Mountain species and communities are elements of sensitive ecosystems, easily susceptible to degradation. The high-mountain pastures along the Stara Planina mountains are susceptible to erosion when vegetation cover is disturbed or removed. In the event of overgrazing and/or aggregation of livestock, it compacts or disturbs the soil layer with hoofs, which is a prerequisite for erosion on steep slopes and in heavy rain. Hunting and Fishing Approximately 80% of Park s water bodies are either in reserves or in water catchment areas where fishing is prohibited by other regulatory instruments. Management Plan

84 52 Traditionally, local populations have fished in the area. The reducing numbers of Balkan trout during the last year is the probable result of the impact of complex factors, one of which is use. Prior to the designation of the area as a People's Park, it was also used for hunting of large game bear, red deer, wild boar, chamois etc. Shelters for hunters, salt trays and other supporting elements are still present in many locations in the Park. Hunting was managed and controlled by the relevant structures of the former Committee of Forests and by the Bulgarian Union of Hunters and Fishermen. The current area of the Park was also used as an international hunting tourism site. Non-Timber Resource Collection The data concerning the gathering of natural products - medicinal plants, fruits, herbs, condiments, mushrooms, snails etc. are taken mainly from the representative sociological study of the population from municipal areas within km around the Park. It is estimated that 69,000 persons (53% of the population from the area around the Park), use the natural resources found in the Stara Planina area. Many of these individuals, however, do not collect products for personal use in the Park. Many of the natural products are used by people from settlements further than km around the Park. It may be assumed with a large degree of certainty that the surrounding population gathers both around and partially within the Park approximately 187 tons of forest fruit, 218 tons of herbs, 77 tons of condiments, 229 tons of snails, and 924 tons of mushrooms each year. The figures represent average annual values. The people who gather wild products for commercial purposes are in most cases from urban centers where buy-out points exist. The number of people gathering natural products for sale may not be determined accurately, but through admissible statistical extrapolation it may be assumed as many as 10,000 people from a total of 130,000. It is still not certain exactly how many enter the Park to gather natural resources. Table 6. Gathering of Natural Products as a Livelihood for the Local Population gathering Forest fruits Medicinal plants Spices Snails Mushrooms (%of the people) Personal use For sale Approximately 53% of people living around the Park have noted that they use products from nature. This target group can be divided in two groups: noncommercial resource use/resource collection gatherers and commercial resource use/resource collection gatherers. Personal/Domestic/Family Users - The majority take non-timber resource collection for granted and are convinced that they have the right to use them. They collect natural resources to satisfy their personal needs and do so as part of their recreation. They do not seek information about wild-grown product purchase prices. They believe that the State should control the gathering through strict fees and licenses. Management Plan

85 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK NON-TIMBER NATURAL RESOURCES The map presents information from the socio-economic studies of the GEF Project concerning localities for gathering of non-timber natural products (herbs, berries, mushrooms, snails), as noted by local populations. Also indicated are the medicinal plant localities near main tourist trails in the Park known from scientific research of the GEF Project in and other available literature. The people who live near Central Balkan NP provided information on their gathering of herbs, mushrooms, fruits, snails etc. mainly near the settlements which means mainly outside the park. These areas outside the Park are not marked on the map. On the other hand, the interviewees note that when gathering larger quantities to submit to middlemen, they go further distances, up to km from their settlements, which certainly means gathering in the Park. The study data and the list of localities indicated by those interviewed clearly show that natural products are gathered in the Park and even in the reserves. Specific quantities in the relevant areas cannot be indicated using the data from these studies. LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Reserve Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter Peaks with Elevation and Name Locality of non-timber natural resources Locality of medicinal plants

86

87 53 Commercial Collection - Resource collection also occurs from within the Park at a commercial scale. Approximately 1/3 of the people who visit the Park go there for commercial gathering. This group consists of people of an average age below 30, with primary or secondary education and mostly unemployed. The share of Roma who collect for commercial purposes is 22% (approximately 4% of Bulgaria s population is Roma). In the socio-economic plan, there is one substantial difference in both groups. The people who collect for their own needs have been doing so for a long time. The people collecting wild products for commercial purpose have been doing so for only the last eight to nine years. There is increasing exploitation of these resources due to national and foreign market interests for wild products. Bulgarian wild produce prices are generally among the lowest in Europe, and many non-timber natural resources are harvested for short-term gain, rather than long-term management. During the socio-economic studies, the responders indicated regions and locations where they gather non-timber forest products. Their regions and locations were outlined on a map during the drafting of this Management Plan. The data show that herbs and mushrooms are also gathered in five of the nine reserves in the Park TOURISM AND VISITOR PROFILE Tourist Infrastructure There are 20 tourist chalets in, comprising 10% of all the chalets in Bulgaria. Of these nineteen are owned and managed by tourist societies, and one is leased (Pleven chalet). These have 1,434 beds, or 11% of all the beds in chalets in the country. Furthermore, there are four company owned facilities with 264 beds and three tourist shelters with 40 beds (for use in bad weather) in Central Balkan National Park. The prices vary between two to fifteen levs per night. The average minimal price per bed is approximately 5.1 levs, and the average maximum price is 5.9 levs. One-tenth of these beds however, are occupied by chalet staff. The estimates for 1995 indicate that there were 33,294 nights spent in the Park during the year. This number decreased to 20,837 in the subsequent year. When numbers are adjusted to account for duration of stay, the estimated number of visitors in the Park in 1996 was 7,500 persons. There is a clear trend toward decreasing number of overnight accommodation. Tourist-Visitor Distribution There are no significant tourist concentrations by territory, but regular booking of the chalets is observed. Five of them are visited far less frequently: Planinski Izvori, Rusalka, Sokolna, Mazalat, and Tazha chalets. Half of the visits are during the months July, August and September, and are, in general, evenly distributed among eleven chalets. The following distribution of visitors to chalets was observed in 1998: Echo Management Plan

88 54 (33%), Kozya Stena (28%), Rai (21%), Vezhen (17%), Benkovski and Vasil Levski (15% each), followed by Momina Polyana, Dobrila, Haidushka Pesen, Dermenkaya, Ambaritsa, Tazha, Hubavets, Mazalat, Nezabravka, and Pleven. It is typical for the Park visitors that prior to their visits they do not stop to spend the night in the surrounding villages, but instead organize their time so that their first night is spent in the chalets in the Park. This applies to 84% of the visitors, who generally spend more than two days in the Park. The remaining number of visitors is distributed between Kalofer, Teteven, Karlovo, Ribaritsa, Apriltsi, Tazha and Troyan. This trend may be of substantial importance for the future visitor flow management planning with regard to relieving certain trails. For this reason, the development of services for tourists and visitors in the settlements nearest the Park is an important aspect of management planning if trail conditions, chalet use, and revenue generating opportunities for local communities are considered. It is important to note that a significant number of people visit the Park without spending the night there. Tourist and Visitor Infrastructure Network There are many tourist routes on the northern and southern sides of the main ridge of the Park. Some pass through strict nature reserves. Some chalets act as predominantly entry or exit points. Entry-point chalets may be considered the Haidushka Pesen, Dobrila, and Momina Polyana, while exit chalets are Rai and Echo. These illustrate tourist movements along the West-East axis in the Park, and reflect established trails systems, chalets, and the Park's topographical features. The central ridge of the mountain is part of an international mountain trail, E-3 (Atlantic Ocean Carpathians Stara Planina Black Sea), known as Kom-Emine in its Bulgarian stretch. The starting points for hiking trails in the north are the villages of Cherni Vit, Ribaritsa, Chiflik, and Cherni Osam, the town of Apriltsi, and the Lagat locality. There are 16 marked tourist trails on the northern side. On the southern side of the Park, tourist trails start from the villages of Anton, Rozino, Hristo Danovo, Tazha, Gabarevo, Skobelevo, and the towns of Klisura, Sopot, Karlovo, and Kalofer. There are nine marked tourist trails. The rocks and rock walls create very good conditions for climbing. The most popular climbing rocks are those in the area of Kupena, Severen Dzhendem, and near Rai chalet. Alpine ski rallies and ice climbing are conducted above the Pleven chalet. Management Plan

89 55 The Stara Planina mountains offer conditions for skiing as well. Skiing facilities with towing exist near the chalets of Momina Polyana and Benkovski. The only regulated ski run is near the chalet Pleven. A sports facility and volleyball playground are set up near chalet Ambaritsa during the summer. A swimming pool with mineral water is used near chalet Haidushka Pesen. Certain trends are developing in the construction of sports facilities along park boundaries. Such is the effort of the Troyan municipality and companies to develop the Beklemeto locality as a ski resort. There is no program regulating the development of tourism networks and infrastructure in the Park or in its adjacent areas in the management plan. Tourist and Visitor Profile The most important reason for visiting the Park continues to be visiting the mountains. The main motives for visits are the need for purity, silence, virgin nature, contact with people of similar views, and the observation of animals and plants. Chalets are still the most frequently used accommodation. Among the tourists visiting Central Balkan, 80% come for more than two days, and 70% spend these nights in chalets. For some people such visits are a way of spending their annual holiday. This group stays for five and a half days on average. Two-thirds of the visits are made in the warm months between June and September. Another category of visitor, mostly composed of hikers, enters the Park for shorter time one to three days. Approximately 15% of the visitors to Central Balkan come every week and have been doing so for fifteen to twenty years. Those who go once or twice a year (again, approximately 15%) have been doing so for seven or eight years. Expectations while in the Park include - clean air (94%), peace and quiet and pristine nature (84% each), and unique natural locations (78%). Preferences for activities are also indicted with people stating - walking trips (98%), observation of natural landmarks (81%), climbing of peaks (72 %), joining friends and socializing, (66%), photography and animal watching (66%). The information about the behavior of tourists in the Park is particularly important they are interested in preserved nature, and consider it important to their own, and the country s well-being. Most Bulgarian visitors come from the administrative centers such as Lovech, Plovdiv, Ruse, Haskovo, Pleven, Svishtov, and Sofia. There are seldom any tourists whose domicile is in local villages. Approximately half of the tourists visit the Park alone. The rest tend to be organized by tourist societies. Eighty-four percent of the visitors follow pre-defined routes. The number of international visitors is minimal. Management Plan

90 56 Tourist Lifestyles and Trends Tourists are generally younger as compared to the national average. Their average education level the national average, and they are active. Of the visitors to the Park, single people outweigh the national average by a ratio of 2: 1. The relative share of private businessmen of all persons in the study group is two times greater than the average in the national population. The following visitor characteristics are of significance for the planning and provision of services. The visitors are most often described as follows: Future oriented believing important events are still to come; Curious, and open to new ideas; Information seekers, readers, leaving home more often, keeping more intensive social contacts, visiting more cultural events; Working not only for money, but also for enjoyment, focused on professional career advancement; Generally self-assured and confident about their actions and practices; Oriented toward quality, and brand-name goods, reacting positively to wellorganized advertisement and information; Enjoying beautiful sites and valuing their spare time; Looking for fun, and preferring experience to material well-being; Generally taking care of their health and outward appearance, aspiring toward healthy living, and prepared to pay more for environment-friendly goods. Unlike the population in general, virtually every visitor in the Park is aware of the need for protected areas and their functions. Almost three-quarters of the visitors know about the existence of the Park, but have no idea about where the Park boundary starts, and what rules apply. There is little association between their motive for visiting the Park, and the fact that the place they are visiting is a National Park. They are not aware of any places to obtain such information, and not aware of any pertinent information exists. The Park visitors express their readiness to pay entry fees. The general recommendation is for a stratified entrance fee structure, with one rate for Bulgarians and another rate for foreigners. Visitor Services Visitor services are generally related to accommodation and eating facilities. Commercial support services and visitor information about the Park or areas surrounding chalets are not offered. No waste management program is in effect, although waste is a significant issue in certain areas. Most often the waste is processed by burying, heaping in piles or in holes and/or burning. Management Plan

91 57 Generally, the conditions in the chalets are average to poor, with little or no investment in infrastructure or improvement of the feeding and accommodation facilities. Such sites and the associated mechanical functions are often in disrepair and/or inefficient in their operations. The sanitary facilities and conditions are poor. The Bulgarian Red Cross operates an effective Mountain rescue Service with stations in all major municipalities around the Park. Visitor Information and Interpretation Most information is shared by word of mouth, or through an informal network of information sharing between chalets, chalet keepers, and local villages. No specially designed visitor information program or specialized interpretative programs exist at present. There are guides in the Park, but no guide services for tourists have been registered officially. Also, there is no system of development and/or training in such skills. International visitor information is extremely limited, and most international guidebooks only make passing reference to the values and opportunities in the Central Balkan-Stara Planina. There are no specialized guidebooks for the Park, no specific literature for visitors, no special programs focused on Park resource values, special features, or information regarding arrival to Park, or visitor behavior while in the Park. The Bulgarian Tourist Union provides a tourist trail guide. Many routes in the Park are marked with both local and national systems of trail markings, maintained by the Bulgarian Tourist Union. In recent years, information about the Park was provided in chalets through the agency of the BSBCP, yet this activity should be better planned. Specially Organized Groups Apart from the tourists described so far, there are people who visit the Park for the purpose of observing interesting natural sites, as well as for training and participation in activities of the Federations of the Committee for Youth and Sports: The Bulgarian Speleological Federation organizes studying of caves and karst springs, in relation to which approximately 500 persons enter Central Balkan National Park annually. They usually camp out in tents. In certain cases these events are in violation of the law when caves are within reserves and may threaten the cave flora and fauna. The Bulgarian Alpine Club Federation organizes rock climbing, sports climbing, and ski climbing. Alpine competitions around Pleven chalet and around Rai chalet, for example, were organized in Such activities often include more than 100 people, and can cause damage to certain plant and animal species and habitats in the Park. Management Plan

92 58 The Walking Tourism Federation organizes walking, aquatic, bicycle and ski tourism activities. The Federation has organized special walking tours. The National Center for Student Recreation has been organizing recreation for Bulgarian schoolchildren in the mountains, and in Central Balkan chalets for 30 years. In 1996, this Center organized summer holiday trips to the Central Balkan for 1,200 children. In 1997 no such trips for pupils were made in the Park. Odyssеiа-in. In 1996, this company organized trips in Bulgarian mountains for 250 foreigners, with 70 of these visiting the following Central Balkan chalets- Pleven, Kozya Stena and Rai. Explorer. In the early '90s approximately 20 foreign tourists visited the area above Sopot for bird watching through this organization. Noephron. Several groups of tourists have visited the Park area during the recent years with this organization for bird watching. Pandion-D handles specialized tourism, botany and birdwatching (in 1997/98 the company organized and financed studies and feeding of rock partridge in certain areas of the Park). The company is interested in studying, protecting and engaging in specialized tourist activities for observation of certain species. The Swiss Foundation for International Assistance INTERASSIST helped in the establishment of the Stara Planina Association. It unites 5 municipalities: Tryavna, Gabrovo, Apriltsi, Troyan and Teteven, with the objective to develop international tourism through pristine natural areas. Centaur. Organizes visits of foreign tourists in the Park for large mammal watching, photography and films making, as well as horse-back riding tourism. Bulgarian Union of Tourists. Even before the establishment of the Park, the Bulgarian Tourist Union has organized trips along trails for hundreds of tourists each year, visiting the mountains mainly for the pleasure from contact with wild nature. There is a small but growing interest in offering specialized services for hiking as well as horseback and donkey trips into. At present, there is no program for the organization of special interest groups, and no formal mechanism to ensure their development and coordination in concert with the National Park Directorate. Specialized and Sports Tourism More and more visitors are interested in other opportunities for open-air recreation in the Park. These include wild animal watching (bird watching, bear watching, wolf watching etc.), photo-safari etc. Currently, the number of such visits is low and still limited to certain areas (near, for example, the upper rope line station above Sopot). Management Plan

93 59 Treasure Seekers Treasure seekers are attracted to the Park by legends concerning the hidden treasures of outlaws, and others from the past. They do not follow the traditional tourist trails and rarely spend nights in the chalets. There is no available information on their exact number and frequency of activities. Motorcycle and bicycle riders Groups of motorcycle riders gather every summer around Dermenka chalet. Their access to the chalet is made easier by the dirt road leading to it. Motorcycle riders also come into the Park to the Tazha chalet region and from the southern side near Kalofer. So far there are singular occurrences of entry in the Park with mountain bikes. Adventure Sports Although still at an early stage of development in Bulgaria, this form of tourism exhibits a clear upward trend and will undoubtedly become more popular. Currently paragliding and hang-gliding are practiced in some locations (near the upper lift station above Sopot, for example). These activities tend to concentrate on equipment and thrill, rather than the enjoyment of nature SCIENTIFIC STUDIES During the 70 s and 80 s, the territory of the present National Park was the subject of studies by the then Institute of Ecology of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences at the Polish Academy of Sciences ( ). Studies have also been conducted by the Institute of Forests at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. Studies of the high-mountain meadows in the Park were carried out by the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program during the period The USAID funded GEF Project for Biodiversity supported a set of intensive literature reviews, and field studies in the Park between 1996 and These studies were conducted mainly by scientific researchers in the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (Institute of Zoology, Institute of Botany, and the National Museum of Natural Sciences) whose studies and the information purchased from AgrolesProject form the basis of the Park Geographic Information System (GIS). Also, local studies and studies of individual species have been carried out by nongovernmental nature conservation organizations (NGOs) such as the Bulgarian Society for Protection of Birds, the Wilderness Fund, the Balkan Wildlife Society, and SCEC. Management Plan

94 NATURE CONSERVATION EDUCATION AND PUBLIC AWARENESS There are no specialized centers or locations for general environment protection education and awareness raising, or education and awareness raising about biodiversity conservation in, inside Park boundaries. Two centers are established in immediate proximity to the Park in Ribaritsa and Karlovo which have dedicated much of their activities to nature conservation. The Karlovo Information Center, owned by the Karlovo Municipality and submitted for management to the Wilderness Fund and to the Vasil Levski Tourist Society of Karlovo, offers education programs, organizes Green Holidays and offers tourist trails for different ages. The Ribaritsa Nature Society offers in the Ecological Information Center in Ribaritsa a specially prepared program School among Nature for schoolchildren on holiday with their parents or attending green schools. A comprehensive experimental education program has been initiated in partnership between the Central Balkan and Rila National Park Directorates, and the Information and the Teacher Re-Training Department of the Sofia University Kliment Ohridski. It makes a source of specific knowledge and skills in nature conservation. The Park Directorate carries out educational programs with the Professional High School of Industrial Forms Dechko Uzunov Academy in Kazanlak. The Forestry Technical School Sava Mladenov in Teteven carries out practical training in the Park. Practical Ecology classes in the Park are also carried out by the Technical University Vasil Aprilov in Gabrovo, in combination with volunteer activities. The Park Directorate has organized other public information and environmental awareness raising activities. Journalists are one important target group. A group of media representatives lead by teams from the Directorate has visited the Park for the purpose of training in biodiversity conservation. A range of educational and information brochures, booklets, posters, cards and calendars has been developed and distributed for training in nature conservation, and a library of nature conservation films is maintained. In support of activities of the National Park Directorate, the Central Balkan Project of the Bulgarian-Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program has issued and distributed the Kupenat-Stara Planina Mountain News newspaper since During the implementation of this project, a network of clubs Friends of Central Balkan Park was created and unites more than 250 persons in more than 12 settlements around the Park and in Bulgaria. In order to increase awareness of, park identification symbols and signs have been created as an important element of the public system which includes a registered park logo, a flag, and an oath-taking ceremony for new employees of the Directorate. Management Plan

95 61 A system of moral incentives for persons and institutions who have contributed to the Park has been instituted and is operational in the Directorate, which includes a letter of acknowledgment and an honorary badge Patron of. Management Plan

96 INFRASTRUCTURE AND ACCESS TO THE PARK Buildings and sites Significant Park based infrastructure exists within the protected area. In addition to the network of 20 chalets, there are military facilities, meteorological stations, radiorelay stations, private structures, rest houses, abandoned structures, etc. A list of known facilities is attached as Appendix No. 17. Hydropower and Irrigation Facilities There is no developed system of hydropower or irrigation facilities for integrated use of water resources in. The rivers originating in Central Balkan National Park, however, are used for power generation, water supply and irrigation in areas outside the Park. The use of water for power production is carried out from the north to the watersheds of the rivers Vidima (Vidima power plant) and Rositsa (in the point of the hydropower plant on the Alexander Stamboliski water reservoir), and from the south in the watersheds of the rivers Tazha (Tazha HPP) and Tundzha (Koprinka water reservoir). The Vidima HPP water storage body is on the Park boundary, and the two water catchments of the Vidima River and its tributary, Praskala, are 1.5 km inside the boundary where the outflow is regulated. Part of the waters of these rivers is used for irrigation. Cherni Osam River is one of the largest water supply systems in northern Bulgaria, since part of the facilities are in the Steneto reserve and have no specific sanitary protection belts. (Appendix No. 19) Water Supply Networks and Facilities The water resource use facilities are catchments whose purpose is to supply drinking water to recreation and tourism facilities. The water supply to infrastructures in the Park is generally limited and local. This applies to chalets, forest homes, and farm buildings and others. Water is taken from some sites for use outside the Park. Only one site (Cherni Osam) is used for water supply to the towns Lovech, Pleven, Troyan and approximately 60 other urban settlements. The largest water supply groups are Ribaritsa-Teteven; Cherni Vit-Lukovit, with only a part of the line being completed. Other water supply groups exist as well: Cherni Osam Sevlievo-Veliko Tarnovo; and Ostrets. The water supply by area is shown in Appendix No. 18. The facilities are in good technical condition. Not all water catchments are provided with sanitary protection belts. In most cases the provision of water to recreation facilities, chalets, and small urban settlements does not change the direction of natural water flows. No unfavorable effects on the ecosystems or their components caused by water supply facilities have been evaluated. Projects exist for the construction of large-scale water supply facilities in the Park and immediately outside its boundaries (Cherni Osam water reservoir). Management Plan

97 64 Existing and envisioned water facilities, distributed by administrative units, can be found in Appendix No. 18. Water Collection Areas There are sanitary stations in the Park supplying water to the surrounding settlements. A, B and C category stations exist around most water collection areas and catchments, according to Regulation No. 2/ of the Committee for Territorial and Urban Development. Sanitary stations in exist around Ribaritsa, Troyan, Apriltsi, Cherni Osam, Ugorelets, Karlovo, Rozino and Pirdop. Their total area is 19,197.3 ha. No unfavorable effects on water flows or on the quality of water in the Park have been established. Power Transfer Networks Electricity is supplied to the infrastructure in the Park and to many of the chalets by aerial cables and towers. There are electricity transfer facilities in the Park for chalets, camps and shelters. The following chalets are supplied through the grid Momina Polyana, Haidushka Pesen, Ambaritsa, Dobrila (also has a diesel engine), Dermenka, Pleven, Nezabravka (also has two diesel engines). The electrical grid powers the Smesite and Golyama Ravna camps, as well as the complex on Botev peak. The following chalets are powered by their own sources Benkovski, Vezhen (engine), Chuchul (engine), Mazalat (engine), Sokolna (small hydropower plant and an engine), Rai (small hydropower plant and 2 diesel engines), Vasil Levski (small hydropower plant), Balkanski Rozi (small hydropower plant), Hubavets (small hydropower plant), Kozya Stena (engine), Echo (diesel engine), Planinski Izvori (engine), and the Orlovo Gnezdo shelter. The Botev shelter is not powered. The condition of the power-distribution network is shown in Appendix No. 19. Road Networks The road network around the Park is well developed, and almost half of the roads are first-grade. All roads from the national road network are satisfactory and provide for adequate movement around the Park. They provide approaches to the Park from all peripheral areas. There are 37.4 km of the national road network in the Park. The most significant roads and their status are noted in Appendix No. 20. A comparatively well developed network of secondary roads for machines, tractors and bulldozers, dirt roads and logging roads has remained from the forestry enterprises in the forested areas. It can be used for the needs of the Park. A dirt-road Management Plan

98 65 network above the upper forest line exists for the needs of high-mountain animal breeding (mainly for the transport of animal products, such as milk). Many of the forest roads, high meadows roads, and roads to chalets, are eroded and/or cause erosion along slopes. They are poorly constructed and maintained. These roads need adequate management and some may require closing. Main Entry and Exit Points There is one trans-park road, bisecting the area along the Troyan-Beklemeto-Karnare approach (State Road No. 35). It is passable only in good weather and as a rule is closed for 3-4 months during the winter. It is connected to the near-by Dermenka and Chuchul chalets by means of dirt roads along the ridge. A route from the village of Tazha to Tazha chalet. A macadam-surfaced, forest road exists but is in poor condition. It approaches Rusalka chalet, to the facility of Arsenal Ltd. from Kazanlak in the Golyama Ravna locality and to peak Golyam Kademlia; A route from the town of Apriltsi to Tazha chalet. Initially, it consists of a length of 67 km surfaced with asphalt concrete. After this the road continues without surfacing and is passable by off-road vehicles only. Apart from the above approaches, there are also other roads entering the Park and serving the chalets or other facilities near them, but they do not connect to main roads. Additional roads give access to the military stations at Botev peak and Triglav peak, and are also not connected to other roads. Important roads to be further developed in the future include: A route from the town of Teteven and village Cherni Vit (road 35831) to Momina Polyana chalet. Macadam surface as far as the Park boundary, from then on unsurfaced and in very bad condition; A route from the village of Ribaritsa to Vezhen chalet. Macadam surface in satisfactory condition. A road branching off to the west, to the chalet of Benkovski, unsurfaced; A route from the town of Apriltsi to Pleven chalet. Road with bitumionousconcrete surface; A route from Lagat locality to Mazalat chalet. The road is almost completely unsurfaced; A route from the town of Kalofer to peak Botev. The initial stretch of 7.0 km (to the Panitsite locality) follows road 607 and is surfaced with bituminous concrete. The extension to Botev peak is unsurfaced; A route from the town of Sopot to Nezabravka and Dobrila chalets. A simple unsurfaced road. Management Plan

99 PARK LANDSCAPES, OVERLOOKS AND PICTURESQUE QUALITIES According to the current regional and landscape ranging in Bulgaria, Central Balkan National Park falls into: B. Stara Planina landscape area; VІ. Central-Stara Planina landscape sub-area; 41. Central watershed landscape region. The landscape structure of the Park is, as a whole, classified as Mountain Landscape, which includes three landscape types, six landscape sub-types and eleven landscape groups. The appearance of is characterized by forest landscapes, meadow landscapes and rock landscapes. (Appendix No. 28) A coefficient of landscape diversity has been calculated for the Park to give an idea of the complexity of the landscape structure. The coefficient of landscape diversity has a comparatively high value of 0.79 and places the Park just under Rila National Park and thus the second in a group of 13 national and nature parks in Bulgaria. Historically, there has been little effort to classify or evaluate the scenic values and qualities of the Park. For centuries these qualities have been taken for granted and assumed to be part of the experience of visitors to the area. The construction of many facilities along the Stara Planina during the last 50 years has changed these qualities. The lack of physical infrastructure planning system and standards has damaged the appearance of the Park through inadequately positioned infrastructure elements, improper architectural styles, construction of pylons and power lines along the skyline, unsafe and poorly located light fixtures, and poorly managed additional/auxiliary infrastructure, public utilities and communications routes/facilities. Yet has numerous locations which could be organized as outlooks with relevant visitor infrastructure. The Park in general and some of its elements require protection from further development, and/or disfigurement due to construction and poorly placed infrastructure. Elements of that are subject to this management plan are: The unique skyline of high peaks typical of the National Park, both when observed from a distance and from the Park itself; Forests, forest glades, forest and meadow formations, and meadow and rock formations, that provide relaxation for those who transverse the territory; Unique rock and cliff formations; Management Plan

100 68 Routes through high altitudes and trails through valleys where the beautiful terrain is accentuated by seasonal colors; Landscapes commemorated or immortalized in song, painting, and literature. Management Plan

101 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK IN THE REGIONAL CONTEXT and the adjacent areas lie in five administrative areas and nine municipalities. The conservation of the Park and its unique biological diversity are inevitably linked to both the areas in direct proximity to the Park boundaries, and to factors that are geographically farther away. This management plan also looks at issues regarding the areas around the Park since they are related to the Park s nature conservation and management objectives. This area is approximately 5,640 km 2, and surrounds the Park on all sides 25 km from its boundaries. Geo-physically, this area is important for the Park and thus for its administration and management. In return, the Park administration recognizes a reciprocal responsibility to agencies and local communities whose activities have direct bearings on the purpose and objectives of the Park DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS AND USES IN AREAS AROUND THE PARK The total population of the nine municipalities around the National Park amounts to 297,018 persons, representing only 2.8% of Bulgaria s population (Appendix No. 21). The population in areas around the Park is approximately 130,000, and its distribution by gender conforms to the structure of the country as a whole. The share of rural population in the Park exceeds the relevant population in the country by three percentage points, and is 35.2% of the general level for Bulgaria. The population below working age is less than the country s average at 16.8% (18.1% for the country), and the population of working age is 56% (57.3% for the country). The percentage of the population above retirement age is higher 27.2% (24.6% for the country). These indicators differ widely in different municipalities, the Gabrovo municipality, for example, has the highest percentage of population of working age 60.2%. The northern towns of Apriltsi, Troyan and Gabrovo also have very low populations of young people 11.9%, 14.7% and 14.6% respectively. The highest relative share of the adult population (of retirement age) are also located in the north and include the municipalities of Apriltsi 43.7%, Sevlievo 33.4% and Troyan 30.2%. Trends in Employment Those persons employed in government, municipal and co-operative enterprises in these regions are involved mainly in the industrial 1 sector with 60.9% of them in the 1 The data for the distribution of employees by economic sectors both public and private apply to All other data relate to Management Plan

102 70 governmental sector (compared to 39.1% for the country). The highest share of those in the governmental sector is that of the municipalities of Karlovo 73.9%, Pirdop 64.6% and Troyan 62.9%. Those employed by private companies 2 are involved mainly in the industrial sector 67% (38.8% for the country). The private sector accounts for more than 70% of the industrial work force in areas to the north of the Park (Sevlievo, Gabrovo, Apriltsi municipalities are among the highest). The largest employers next to the industrial sector are the sectors of Education, 9.7%, Healthcare, Social Welfare and Athletics, 8.8%, and the private sector of Commerce and Deliveries, 14.4%. Only 4.1% of the government officials and 1.9% of the private company employees are involved in forestry. Areas with the highest unemployment are Pavel Banya and Teteven, where unemployment among the populations of working age is 18.0% and 13.7%. A clear trend of increased unemployment in the municipalities south of the Park was observed during the period. The lowest unemployment levels are in the municipalities of Sevlievo and Pirdop. The salaries of government and private sector employees differ only slightly from the national average only 5 to 6% lower than the average annual salary for the country. Those employed in the government, municipal and co-operative enterprises in the region receive an average annual salary of 1,451.5 levs, and those employed in the private sector receive 1,416.9 levs. Payment in government enterprises is 14.6% lower than the country s average, while the payment in the private sector is 15.5% higher. Hunting and Fishing The representative sociological study of the population in the area of Central Balkan National Park shows that approximately 5,000 persons (+/- 500) from the population in the urban centers and within km from the Park boundaries (approximately 130,000 persons) practice hunting. This population includes approximately 13,000 lovers of sports fishing. All respondents are aware of suitable locations and relevant species for hunting and fishing in and around the Park. Forestry in the Areas around the Park Forestry enterprises, logging and wood-processing industries form a significant part of Bulgaria s economy. This is true of the area around as well. Traditionally, these forests have been used as sources of timber for construction, firewood and, of raw material for the wood processing industry. In the towns north of the Park Teteven and Troyan there are comparatively large wood-processing industries (the largest such enterprise on the Balkan Peninsular is located in Troyan). Smaller wood-processing factories or workshops exist however, in almost all urban settlements around. 2 All private sector data apply only to the employees in private companies with double entry book keeping and represent only a small part of the employees in the sector. Management Plan

103 71 Along with the designation of People s Park in 1991, forests accessible for commercial exploitation diminished. This and the deteriorated economic situation in Bulgaria, increased unemployment and certain other factors have lead to increased pressure for forests and forest resource use in and around the Park. At the same time, an abrupt decrease in the water supply functions of individual forest complexes is observed, causing negative changes in the microclimate of individual sections and of the entire park area. The institutional relations between the Park Directorate and local structures of the National Department of Forests are good. There are excellent opportunities to continue coordination on matters of fire control and management, guarding and control, pest control, road access and maintenance, hunting, fishing, timber and nontimber forest product collection, and biodiversity monitoring. Agriculture around the Park The land managed by the nine municipalities Gabrovo, Sevlievo, Apriltsi, Teteven, Troyan, Karlovo, Pirdop, Pavel Banya and Anton amounts to 211,948.4 ha. 133,116.2 ha, or 62.8% of this total area, is arable land. Natural meadows are 43,963 ha, artificial meadows 14,660 ha, and perennial plantations found on 13,345 ha. The remaining areas are pastures and abandoned land (Appendix No. 22). Grain production is concentrated mostly in the agricultural production co-operative farms, while the production of potatoes, orchards, vegetables and breeding of animals (from 1-2 cows to 4-5 sheep or goats) are concentrated in private farms, comparatively small in size and inadequate for mechanical operation. The decreasing human population observed during the recent years, with the dramatic changes in its age structure, is having an impact on agriculture and agricultural practices. Depending on specific conditions, agricultural crop structures have been established. Cereals and vegetables are established in the lowlands, with potatoes and plums in the semi-mountainous and mountainous areas. Raspberries and plum plantations are typical to areas north of the Park. The areas to the south of the Park are famous for its ethereal oil crops, particularly rose and lavender. Rose oil extraction continues in the villages of Rozino and Karnare, in the town of Karlovo and elsewhere. Animal breeding is common in both north and south of the National Park. Several types of domestic animals have been traditionally bred in the Park and its surroundings. (Appendix No. 23). Recent counts indicate 29,514 domestic animals, of which 16,034 are cows, and 133,574 sheep, 20,640 pigs, 41,775 goats, in the Park. Since the 1980s, the total number of agricultural animals has decreased by half, except for goats, which have increased more than five fold. Management Plan

104 72 The overall transition from agriculture to industry, which had been part of the country s policy after World War II, has lead to decline of animal breeding. The national political changes that began in 1989 were followed by further reduction in the numbers of cattle and sheep. The charts below illustrate the data about all livestock numbers in the municipalities around the Central Balkan area. The charts are representative of the general trends. The changes in the condition of animal breeding are shown on Figure 20: 18,000 16,000 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 AF (ha) ? Karlovo Pavel Banya Teteven Troyan Apriltsi Sevlievo Anton Figure 20. Trends in Animal Breeding by Municipality (numbers of animals) 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10, Total Figure 21. General Trend in Cattle Breeding Figure 21 and Figure 22 show the general cattle and sheep breeding trends in the National Park. Management Plan

105 73 300, , , , ,000 50, Figure 22. General Sheep Breeding Trend 7.2. INDUSTRIAL IMPACTS Detailed studies of the conditions of air, water, soil and forest tree vegetation were carried out for the purposes of the 1996 development project elaborated by AgrolesProject Ltd. Some additional data was added by the BSBCP. Air Quality - Larger industries exist in the towns of Pirdop, Karlovo, Sopot, Troyan, Sevlievo, Gabrovo and Kazanlak. The prevalent winds are northwestern and southwestern, which may cause pollution accumulation in some reserves in the Park. is subject to simultaneous impact by several industrial areas. The most significant sources of air pollution are the Kremikovtsi Metallurgical Plant and the Union Minier copper smelter. The atmospheric air polluters around the Park, such as Kremikovtsi, Eliseina, Pirdop, including Karlovo and Troyan, affect the Park more than 53% of the time, by medium-distance and close-distance transfers. The industries in Troyan and Karlovo cause impacts through short-distance transfers with 24.1% of the time, while those in Sevlievo, Gabrovo and Kazanlak affect the air above the Park only 17.3% of the time. The share of other emission sources in Bulgaria and having effect in different wind directions amounts to only 5.6% of the time. The direct measurements and model studies show that the concentrations of the main pollutants remain, largely, within background level standards. Any increase to these levels, however, would have an unfavorable effect on the biological diversity in the Park. Water Quality In general, the quality of surface water in the Park corresponds to background level requirements. The background level concentrations of heavy metals Management Plan

106 74 in surface water vary within a broad range, remaining within category I due to changes in the underground feeding and the share of snow-water in the surface runoff. Soil Quality The data (Appendix No. 24) show that the soil contains heavy metals above admissible limits. A vertical gradient of pollution is observed most polluted are the highest peaks, such as Tetevenska Baba, Vezhen, Kozya Stena, Botev and the area above the Planinski Izvori chalet. The pollution immediately above the upper forest line is within the admissible concentration limits. The condition may be illustrated with Figure % 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Pb Cd Cu Se Zn Figure 23. Percentage of Soil Samples (50) Containing Heavy Metals Above the Admissible Limits. Heavy metal pollution is more significant in the western part of the Park. Although this does not affect the ecosystems in the Park significantly, it should be the subject of special attention. Heavy metal pollution is observed also in the southwestern part of the Park, diminishing rapidly to the east. The heavy metal content values in the high-mountain pasture zone indicate an absence of long-distance transfer of pollutants. The high content of lead and copper in the upper layer of the forest debris (A 0 L) in the experimental areas of the Pirdop and Klisura Forestry Enterprises show that the process of pollution continued at the time of the study. It was established that the relation between soil pollution and damages to the tree vegetation is not crucial for the tree stands in the Park at present. There is a need for systematic monitoring in order to establish the quantity of heavy metals in the soil. Condition of the vegetation - It should be noted that the studies of the vegetation in the high-mountain pastures show the same disturbing trend, as in soils. Figure 24 shows the percentage of vegetation samples (out of a total of 80), containing heavy metals above admissible concentration limits. Management Plan

107 75 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% Pb Cd Cu As Se Zn Figure 24. Vegetation Samples (80) containing heavy metals above the Admissible Concentration Limit. The condition and appearance of the forest vegetation in Central Balkan National Park have not changed significantly and are typically stable CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL HERITAGE Many objects of cultural heritage exist around. These offer excellent opportunities for their combining with the interests and objectives of the Park (Appendix No. 25). Important factors for the development of learning and educational tourism in Central Balkan National Park are the archaeological sites and the historical monuments in and around the Park. In chronological order, the most known of the Thracian fortresses studied so far are: Cherti Grad south of the town of Teteven, Paunov Kamak and Dzhulata near village Tazha. The Roman era includes the Pirdop fortress, the Manastira fortress, near the village of Tazha, and the barrage fortress at Maragidik (Rusalka peak). The roads through the Troyan pass the highest Roman road on the Balkan Peninsula, as well as the roads crossing the Triglav massif, and the Tryavna pass were welltraveled. During the Middle Ages these old roads were used and new and larger Bulgarian fortresses were erected on the ancient sites. The southern slopes of the mountain are surrounded by several impressive castles - Copsis Anevsko fortress, the Sopot fortress, Tazha, and Kran. Transportation infrastructure from the 12th century until late in the 19th included the important roads through Maragidik (Rusalka peak), and those between the villages of Tazha and Ostrets, and the large Vereia road from the Danube through the Stara Planina and Sredna Gora mountains to Thrace. The national liberation struggles of the Bulgarian people, such as the April Uprising of 1876, and the Liberation Russo-Turkish war, can be witnessed in many historical places and monuments such as the monument of G. Benkovski, in the village of Ribaritsa, T. Kableshkov, near the village of Chiflik, Borimechkata, with the Cherrytree wood gun, and the town of Klisura, where Bulgarian rebels were killed. Management Plan

108 76 There are many monasteries in the areas adjacent to Etropolski, Sokolski, Sopot, Kalofer, Troyan, Zelenikovo and Shipchenski. Museums include the house of Ivan Vazov in the town of Sopot, the house of Vasil Levski in Karlovo, the house of Hr. Botev and the Botev School in Kalofer, the Vrabevata and Yordanovata houses with rose oil boilers, and the Hadzhiganchova house in the town of Klisura. In addition there are the museums of natural and cultural history in the towns of Teteven and Cherni Osam RECREATION AND TOURISM The location of the National Park, and its rich natural and cultural diversity, can be considered prerequisites for the development of recreation and tourism in the surrounding areas. Existing recreation centers include: Cherni Vit-Divchovoto Recreation area; Teteven-Ribaritsa Recreation area; Beli Osam-Shipkovo-Chiflik Recreation area; Troyan-Beklemeto Recreation area; Oreshak Recreation area; Apriltsi Recreation area; Pavel Banya village with mineral water; Uzana locality; Hisar village with mineral springs; Banya village, near Karlovo, with mineral springs; Koprivshtitsa village an architectural landmark. Most of these areas, however, are not typical resorts and do not have good infrastructure in general. The distances between settlements and the boundaries of the Park are sufficiently small to allow for short-term (even for one day or a few hours) stay in the Park. These particular areas provide real opportunities for co-operation between Park management and tourist organizations in and outside the Park. There are relatively good possibilities and readiness to develop crafts as a traditional element of tourist service. There is at least one craftsman in 34% of the households, the most widespread crafts being woodcraft, weaving, tapestry making, one needle knitting, and embroidery. The area around the Park is famous for its crafts. The town of Troyan hosts Bulgaria s only museum of crafts and applied arts displaying the distinctive art of masters and crafts typical for this area, such as ceramics, artistic wood carving, iconography, artistic metal processing and textile. Management Plan

109 77 The most popular crafts in the Teteven area are copper products, iron mongery, woodcarving and weaving. Most developed on the southern part of the Park are the traditional practices of wool braiding and the production of rose oil. Kalofer is famous for its carpets, and the Kalofer area is known for its leather products, copper products, and linen and cotton cloth. Each year national and international exhibitions of Bulgarian and foreign masters are organized at the National Fair of People s Artistic Craft in the village of Oreshak. Numerous religious and civil holidays and traditions are celebrated in the area. These include the gathering of large groups of people in areas of the monasteries shown above during Christian celebrations. There are annual celebrations of the Day of Roses in settlements south of the Park and of plums and plum brandy in the town of Troyan. The town of Gabrovo is also famous for its many monuments of history and culture. The town has attained worldwide fame with the celebrations of humor and satire. Survey results indicate that people with an active interest in tourism average years of age, with secondary and higher education levels. They tend to live in 3-4 member households, and are employed. The most attractive form of tourism is private family businesses, which in most instances, is a secondary source of income. The family homes of more than half of them have no in-house toilet facilities, and 25% have no in-house bathroom PUBLIC AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES TOWARD THE PARK The data were obtained from the representative socio-economic study of the population in the area conducted in June and July Changes have resulted in the meantime as a result of the active work of the Park Directorate in the field of public relations. The populations in immediate proximity to the Park have traditional behaviors and attitudes towards nature that could be regarded as nature-conservation oriented. The results of the survey indicate that the majority of people feel that their lives and livelihood are inextricably linked to forest, and the Balkan Mountains. At the same time, people of this region are not fully aware of institutional peculiarities of protected areas, their management, their regimes and rules, and specific aspects of their modern conservation values. They have little idea of the relative values in a national context, nor a regional, European or international context. Four out of every ten persons of the study cannot explain the meaning of protected areas, and what purposes it serves. When explanations are offered, common understanding is often limited to restrictions or law enforcement. Management Plan

110 78 Seventy-five per cent of the responders had no clear idea about the governmental institution responsible for management of the national parks. Eighty-one per cent of the population in the area did not know about the existence of the National Park. Forty-five per cent of those with some understanding of know it was somewhere near their settlement, and only 17% indicated they are aware of its boundaries. Even though such lack of awareness is surprising, more than two-thirds of the interviewed persons expressed their expectations and recommendations for the Park management to exhibit high levels of conservation and protection of the area. More than half of the respondents even recommend restrictive activities ( no felling and pollution, fines, fees, termination of construction, fencing, no motor vehicles, etc.). Local people believe that additional management efforts should be imposed concerning certain activities which should be regulated more strictly in the future picking of herbs (54%), lighting of fire (45%), some high impact sports (35%), swimming in rivers and lakes (26%), preparation of preserves for the winter (5%), fishing (4%), hunting (2%). The Park Directorate has initiated many public involvement and information programs around the Park PARTNERSHIPS IN THE PARK Broad partner coalitions have been established in most cases involving the mayor s offices of the settlements, local non-governmental organizations, schools and cultural institutions. Such is the case in Rozino, Ribaritsa, Cherni Osam, Teteven, Kazanlak, and Gabrovo. One example of the development of educational program is the establishment of the Ecology Club in the village of Rozino and of the Patrons of Central Balkan National Park Club in the Vasil Levski School in Gabrovo. The Park Directorate has carried out joint activities with the school Hristo G. Danov in Rozino to grow medicinal plants, with the Nature Society in Ribaritsa to develop the Environmental Information and Education Center and to develop and initiate a School among Nature program in Troyan, with the cooperation of the school and the museum of natural sciences in Cherni Osam and with Sofia University Kliment Ohridski in order to enhance the curriculum with the resources of the museum. These projects are implemented to establish lasting partnerships with educational institutions. More and more people, mainly from larger settlements, are interested in voluntary co-operation with the National Park. One such example of partnership in a large area around the Park is the creation and activities of the club Friends of the Central Balkan Park REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ISSUES AND CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK The National Park can not be separated from its location and role in a regional landscape context. The regional planning and management decisions can easily impact the Park and, although to a lesser extent, the management decisions and actions carried out in the Park may affect the areas and people living around it. The Management Plan

111 79 location of in the center of Bulgaria, coupled with its narrow east-west orientation demonstrates its regional importance in water management, regional communication networks, tourism development, and general land use and landscape planning. Infrastructure The road network in the area around the Park is 8,867.3 km long. The road network density is 36,4km/100 sq. km. Future access to the Park and the development of trade and tourism will be largely dependent on the effective development and maintenance of this road network, and on its connection to the main traffic channels. The construction of tunnels would have a positive role in the fulfillment of the National Park objectives, because it will help limit the automobile traffic through the Park. Long-term road development planning should consider options for improved tourism distribution and scenic road development opportunities. These could include the construction of a panorama road along the Etropole-Teteven-Troyan-Apriltsi- Gabrovo-Tryavna-Elena-Kotel line. Regional Planning and Policy At present, there are still too few guidelines in support of planning or policy making, which encourage an integrated approach to nature conservation, nature tourism, and park management in a regional and/or landscape context. The law does not require the national parks to be taken into consideration in regional planning, which is a problem in implementing an integrated approach for their conservation. Still, no official mechanisms for closer coordination between regional authorities and the Park exist. Four major aspects of closer regional cooperation have been identified for future attention: Development of a regional policy and program for tourism linked to the National Park. It is important for the Park Directorate to keep in touch with authors of regional development plans as well as with agencies and financing institutions which would elicit attention and encourage financial support directed to programs encouraging environmentally sound tourism in the mountains. An ecotourism program would be successful only if implemented jointly with the people living around the Park and on whose support the Park Directorate relies for efficient accommodation of tourists outside the Park. Such a strategy would conform to the national strategy for tourism outlined in the National Plan for Economic Development, Architectural Styles and Infrastructure Bulgaria is rich in traditional architectural styles. They are a prerequisite for positive acceptance of rural areas, homes and accommodation facilities. Cooperation between Park administration and local authorities aimed to provide incentives for the development and maintenance of an architectural style that preserves the traditional Bulgarian architecture to a larger extent is important. It is expected that this will be taken into consideration in new construction, in the provision of subsidies and in the issuance of permits and guidelines, especially in villages and municipalities working in close cooperation with the National Park and with concern for the surrounding landscape. Management Plan

112 80 Communications and public utilities networks Of significance for park conservation is that plans and such networks are planned and developed in a manner which does not cause risks or does not contradict the objectives and the purpose of the Park. The Park Directorate will try to participate in the planning of these networks in order to benefit the Park and the surrounding areas. Municipal and regional planning and development Due to the importance of the links of the Park Administration to the municipalities and areas around the Park, the National Park Directorate is interested in coordinated planning and development of tourism and tourism-related services, in identifying of skills, goods and sites in these municipalities which could develop through their proximity to the National Park. The National Park as a Prerequisite for Sustainable Development Coupled with the need for appropriate regional planning and policy development, the MOEW and National Park Directorate are aware of the need to orient economic development possibilities in areas neighboring the Park. The policy is such that those people and communities around the Park should benefit from their closeness to the Park. This population is also strategically important as an immediate guard of the resources in the Park. This requires orientation of individual programs to these communities in addition to the initiatives currently under way in the Park. The National Park Directorate sees the need for support in areas such as: Employment policies and practices that give preference to local community members; Working with communities to use the possibilities of the Park to increase the value of products and goods, produced using local natural resources. These include nontimber forest products, wool, milk, cheese and meat as direct products from the livestock, as well as their processing, packaging, and marketing. Development of sustainable and environmentally sound tourism that focuses opportunities for accommodation, crafts, guiding services, etc., in the settlements around the Park. Natural Resources Conservation and Management The future of the National Park lies in its abilities to generate support for its objectives and management activities from the population in the surrounding regions. There are four additional program elements that form the basis for future biodiversity conservation and Park management. These cannot be conducted by the Park administration alone. Instead it looks for partnerships with organizations, agencies, and communities that can work with the Park towards common ends. These elements are determined by certain previously mentioned aspects of park operations and projects in the Park. Management Plan

113 81 Public Information and Environmental Awareness Raising continuing a program of regular public information is essential to an informed and engaged population in areas around the Park. Conservation Education this process recognizes the importance of continuing the long-term development of a biodiversity conservation ethos among pupils and teachers within the regions. It includes the maintenance and development of National Park links with local institutions of formal education, and coordination with their administrations on curriculum supplements and activities. Coordinated Natural Resources Management the close coordination and collaboration of activities and actions required for the management of water, forests, pests, wildlife, fire, and other activities of common concern in areas adjacent to the Park. Research and Monitoring certain activities and issues of mutual concern to the Directorate, as well as to other agencies and groups operating in areas around the Park. It will be important to set agendas and priorities for research and monitoring involving these groups and allowing for evaluation of the impact on biodiversity in the area of operations in the Park and outside the Park. This is particularly important with regard to the movements of wild animals, seasonal migrations, forestry, agricultural production, and non-timber forest product collection NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS There are several non-governmental organizations that carry out conservation and sustainable development activities in and in its surrounding areas. Some of these organizations are nationally based, but also have local branches. They include: Wilderness Fund: one of the most active and consistent operators in the Park and its surroundings. For many years, this NGO has carried out large-scale specialized programs aimed at natural resource conservation and sustainable development in the region. In practice, the Wilderness Fund NGO is the organization implementing most of the Bulgarian Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program activities in Central Balkan National Park, including the establishment of an Information Center in Karlovo in joint operation with the local tourist society and the municipality. Jointly with the Park Directorate, the NGO has initiated and developed a structure of clubs Friends of which already have rendered volunteer assistance in various activities in the Park. At present, there are 12 clubs in the village of Cherni Vit, Teteven, Ribaritsa, Troyan, Cherni Osam, Apriltsi, Kazanlak, Pavel Banya municipality, Kalofer, Karlovo, Pirdop and Ruse. The establishment of such clubs in Klisura and in Sopot is impending. Nature: Based in Ribaritsa, Nature is very active in aiming mainly to develop environmentally sound tourism and promote nature conservation. This NGO has its own visitor center in the village of Ribaritsa, and operates as a center providing Management Plan

114 82 orientation and information for tourists entering the Park from the northwest. It presents a specialized program for environmental education for children within the National Park. The Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB): conducts periodic monitoring of the state of certain endangered bird species in the Park. As the Bulgarian representative of BirdLife International, BSPB is the link between Central Balkan National Park and the international nature protection initiatives for preserving the Park as an Important Bird Area. The BSPB has carried out joint activities with the NPD to increase public awareness and to study ornithofauna in the Park. Students Club for Environment Protection: unites nature-protection oriented students from the Forestry Technical University. It has organized and participated many times in expeditions for field studies within. Society in Transition Foundation: with representatives of other environmental NGOs, has carried out a training program for the NPD officials financed by the USAID and under methodological guidance of the ARD. Borrowed Nature: assisted by the ARD/GEF Project, it prepared and submitted a library of 101 Biodiversity Films. Initiative for Sustainable Development Association: an NGO based in Gabrovo. The organization has been providing agricultural advice, training and information exchange in the areas around since Its objective is to develop sustainable policies and practical activities for the population involved in agriculture. The NGO has published a Guidebook for Environmentally Friendly Agriculture around. Students Club Patrons of : unites environmental conservation oriented undergraduates in Ecology from the Technical University in Gabrovo. It supports the National Park Directorate by providing volunteer work INTERNATIONAL DONOR SUPPORT has been receiving technical and financial support from international donors for more than seven years. Since 1993 support was received from USAID through the U.S. National Park Service. This support was used to develop Management Directives. In 1994, the Central Balkan was the focus of the GEF Project prepared by the World Bank. This project preparation resulted in a comprehensive set of prescriptive documents for national park development and management. The USAID chose to fund the project in 1995, under their commitment to the GEF. The project was awarded to the private consulting firm, Associates in Rural Development, Inc. of Burlington, Vermont, USA. This management plan is a result of continued USAID support for the Park. The Park was also supported by the American Peace Corps in Bulgaria through contribution by volunteers working in the Directorate. Management Plan

115 83 The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation has also rendered support to the Park through the Bulgarian-Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Program. After 1994, the Program has worked in several lines of management of Central Balkan National Park, concerned with the conservation and sustainable use of the treeless highmountain zone. This management plan was developed in close cooperation with the BSBCP, and incorporates much of their original information. Work with the EU network of protected areas NATURA 2000 for the implementation of the EU Habitats Directive and the EU Birds Directive aimed to include the Park into the European ecological network of specially protected areas. This joint activity is conducted under the project Public Involvement and Preparation of South-Eastern Europe for Accession to the NATURA 2000 Program and represents initiatives for increased awareness of citizens about the advantages for local people and for the economies of the countries provided by the presence and development of a system of protected areas. Management Plan

116 FIRST EVALUATION This section of the Management Plan is a summary of the analysis of the entire information, data, mapping, studies, and considered expert opinions provided for the development of the Descriptive phase of the Management Plan for Central Balkan National Park. It is an important step in the identification and selection of Long-Term Objectives for this Plan, and for the Park. This section highlights the exceptional and significant elements determining Central Balkan National Park s unique role as a protected area. Significance of Biological Diversity Following is a description of the aspects allowing to be determined as an area of high vulnerability, rarity, naturalness, typicality and importance as a site of exceptional biological diversity. Global Significance One of the representative areas for birds of the alpine biome and of the entire alpine faunistic group and the species trophically related to it; The westernmost locality for Rumelian pine; The most important protected area for the semi-coloured flycatcher, the southern white-backed woodpecker, the Bechstein s bat, the souslik, and the lesser mole rat; A speciation center for plants and invertebrates; The world s largest area of protected beech forests with their inherent faunal groups; A place for reproduction of a significant number of Taxa of global significance for conservation; 21 globally endangered vertebrate species (10 % of the vertebrate fauna in the Park); 19 invertebrate species and 10 plant species; One of the most significant centers for endemic species (10 local, 10 Bulgarian and 67 Balkan endemic higher plant species and sub-species, and 168 endemic invertebrate species and sub-species); In general, the Park ensures the existence and reproduction of globally significant populations of 13 vertebrate species and subspecies. European Significance A major potential part of the Pan-European ecological networks NATURA 2000, Emerald, Econet etc.; One of Europe s most important natural biodiversity conservation centers for plants and animals and for speciation; An example in Europe of the biome mixed mountain systems of complex zoning ; A significant faunal group of coniferous forests; Management Plan

117 86 The breeding place for 44 invertebrate species endangered in Europe (21% of all vertebrates in the Park); Ensures the existence and reproduction of the population of 39 vertebrate species of European significance (13 mammal species; 25 bird species and 1 reptilian species); Includes 24 habitats listed in the European List of Endangered Habitats under the EU Habitats Directive; Includes the largest brown bear population occurring in protected areas. One of Bulgaria s most significant ecological corridors, facilitating genetic exchange, distribution and connection between species from the Carpathian Mountains and other mountains in Eastern Europe, the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula, and Asia Minor. National Significance A natural complex of six typical vegetation belts examples of broad-leaved, mixed broad-leaved, mixed broad-leaved and coniferous, fragmented coniferous, sub-alpine and fragmented sub-alpine vegetation; The breeding place for 15 nationally endangered vertebrate species and for nationally significant populations of 56 vertebrate species (excluding those of global or European significance); One of the three protected areas with the highest level of naturalness (more than 70% of the area is occupied by natural ecosystems); The most significant habitat of Ural owl and rock partridge; The largest teak habitat; The highest number of habitat variety of the three parks; An exceptional nature conservation reservoir preserving approximately 70% of the invertebrate Taxa occurring in Bulgaria, 54 % of the terrestrial vertebrate species breeding in Bulgaria, more than 50% of the terrestrial flora species in Bulgaria and 54 types of habitat of various ranking; Presence of peat communities with a high number of endemic Taxa. Landscape Significance (Including Waters, Skyline, Rock Formations and Phenomena, etc.) The Park includes a rock complex with centennial forests, cliffs and precipices, and the deepest rock belt (the Dzhendema) which are unique in Bulgaria; Third in Bulgaria by vertical and horizontal segmentation; Bulgaria s highest number of deepest gorges and canyons; A large number of waterfalls, including the highest in Bulgaria, and the highest number of waterfalls at high altitudes; One of Bulgaria s locations with the highest precipitation; Deepest precipice-cave in Bulgaria; Large diversity of landscapes and landscape phenomena; Beautiful landscapes and skyline, magnificent and beautiful precipices, gorges and waterfalls. Management Plan

118 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK AREAS OF HIGH SIGNIFICANCE FOR CONSERVATION The map summarizes the data about areas in the park of high floral and faunal conservation significance. More attention is paid to the areas outside Reserves because many years of research on Reserve territory has provided testimony of their conservation significance. The floral conservation significance of an area is determined by a coefficient representing the ratio between the number of rare and endangered species and the total number of established species. The faunal conservation significance is established for each single studied physico-geographical area in the park according to a pre-developed scale. The methods are described in the book Biological Diversity of, a collection of reports by the expert teams who participated in the drafting of the Park Management Plan. It should be noted that like the maps of plants and animals of significance for conservation, the sections noted here do not represent all areas of high significance for conservation. For example, the sections with stable, model, rare or endangered ecosystems, communities, habitats, which are also biodiversity elements of significance for conservation, are not represented here. In general, the entire area of the National Park is of high significance for conservation and this is best illustrated with certain bird and mammal species of significance for conservation for which even individual sections are significant (owing to their higher mobility), which, multiplied by the needs of their entire population and by those of other similar populations spans an enormous area. LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Reserve Peaks with Elevation and Name Tourist Chalet Tourist Shelter Area with high faunal conservation significance Area with high floral conservation significance

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120 87 Significance for the System of Protected Areas Bulgaria s highest number, and largest total area, of natural reserves in a park. A protected area with Europe s largest strictly protected zone (28% of the total park area) (not considering Scandinavia); One of the largest protected areas in Bulgaria and on the Balkan Peninsula; One of Bulgaria s four protected areas of highest significance for the preservation of national biodiversity; A standard for the modern approach for protected area establishment and conservation; One of the most significant protected areas, exemplifying the fulfillment by Bulgaria of the international commitments (Bern Convention, Bonn Convention, and Biodiversity Convention); An example of the implementation of the EU Habitats Directive in Bulgaria, although the country is not an EU member as yet. Historical and Cultural Significance Demonstrated area of high national significance with special contribution to the historical, cultural, and other aspects of national pride. Exceptionally high value for scientific research, education and artistic inspiration; Especially high emblematic value for Bulgaria s traditionalism and national culture and source of deep national and cultural pride. A particularly important element of national culture and self-consciousness; The highest Roman roads (the highest is at 2,150 m above sea level), Roman way-stations (the highest is on 1,600 m above sea level) and Roman mines; Bulgaria s most important area for the existence of the Karakachan culture and of the Karakachan breeds of livestock. Significance for Local Communities and the Public in General An important climatic barrier in Bulgaria; Bulgaria s second most important protected area of significance for water protection, and the most important source of water for Central Bulgaria; One of the country s most attractive locations for recreation and tourism. An area of exceptional potential for tourism based on sustainable development, traditions, and crafts in combination with preserved nature; A region with an extremely high potential for scientific and educational activities; A forest area ensuring clean air and favorable microclimates in areas around the Park; An important source of natural resources for the local communities; One of the country s most prospective areas for generation of revenue from environmentally sound activities. Management Plan

121 SECTION II. PRESCRIPTION

122 GOALS AND LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES Goals have been determined for conforming to management objectives of Category II protected areas (National Parks) as provided for in the 1998 Protected Areas Act. Long-term objectives were determined on the basis of the Goals and have further developed and specified them. The achievement of the long-term objectives is not limited in time. They describe the purpose of the Park, the reason for its establishment, and provide guidelines in the selection of management activities. Purpose of the Park Pursuant to the Order of the Ministry of Environment dated December 31, 1991, was established with the aim to "...protect forever, and for the benefit of society, complexes of self-regulating ecosystems and their inherent diversity of species, habitats of rare and endangered species and communities, typical and remarkable landscapes and abiotic objects of global significance for science and culture." In agreement with Article 18 (2) of The Protected Areas Act (1998), the National Parks are managed for the purpose of: 1. maintenance of the diversity of the ecosystems and protection of wildlife; 2. conservation and maintenance of biological diversity within the ecosystems; 3. presentation of opportunities for development of scientific, educational and recreation activities; 4. creation of prerequisites for development of tourism, environmentally sound livelihood for nearby populations and other activities in harmony with the goals under the preceding items Goal І: The lasting preservation of the natural condition, integrity and unity of natural elements and of the ecological processes in the Park The specific long-term management objectives for in this respect are: 1. to preserve the natural features of ecosystems in the reserves and in other areas with potential to become reserves; 2. to preserve the natural condition and the natural succession of forest habitats and particularly of old-growth forests; 3. to preserve and maintain alpine and sub-alpine habitats; 4. to preserve the natural condition of rock habitats; 5. to preserve the natural condition of the habitats in water bodies with flowing water; 6. to preserve biodiversity at genetic, population, species, ecosystem and habitat levels; 7. to preserve and maintain the natural condition of populations and of the habitats of species and particularly those with significance for conservation; 8. to preserve and maintain the natural condition and the biological potential of medicinal plants in the Park; Management Plan

123 92 9. to preserve the environmental components and provide ecological corridors connecting the Park to other areas of national or regional significance for conservation; 10. to maintain an optimal level of knowledge and long-term monitoring of biodiversity in the Park. Goal II: Long-term conservation of the natural condition, integrity, unity and quality of landscape and other abiotic components of the Park. The specific long-term objectives are: 1. to maintain the natural condition of landscapes; 2. to preserve the natural condition of the representative, typical and unique elements of landscape such as blind creeks, canyons, rock walls and bridges, precipices, water caves, waterfalls, glacial terrain forms etc.; 3. to maintain the infrastructure in the Park within the former capacity and for the needs of conservation and management by encouraging construction of infrastructure in areas around the Park. Goal III: Provide Park visitors adequate opportunities for aesthetic, educational and scientific endeavors, contact with wildlife and solitude, in a manner that does not contravene nature conservation efforts in the Park. The following specific objectives may be determined as long-term objectives: 1. to ensure tourism development in conformity with the significance and purpose of the Park, by creating optimal conditions for aesthetic enjoyment, spiritual enrichment and contact with wild nature; 2. to ensure optimal possibilities for scientific research, environmental and nature conservation education, training and interpretation; 3. to encourage the understanding about the connection of man and nature by inclusion of historical and cultural elements in study, research and interpretation programs; 4. to maintain a long-term monitoring and research program addressing tourism and its impacts on the resources and biodiversity of the Park. Goal IV: objectives. Gain the support of the local population in carrying out Park The following may be determined as specific long-term objectives: 1. to create conditions for sharing of responsibility and uses in the conservation and environmentally sound use of natural resources in the Park through the use of joint management principles; 2. to develop and maintain a system of regular coordination between local and regional authorities and key partners for the benefit of Park management and biological diversity conservation. 3. to maintain conditions for sharing of economic benefits and obligations with local communities by way of attracting more tourists in the Park and in the area around the Park; 4. to develop possibilities for involvement and work with volunteers, especially from the settlements around the Park; 5. to improve and sustain Public awareness about the values, possibilities and the exceptional resources of the Park. Management Plan

124 THREATS AND CONSTRAINTS The descriptive part of the Management Plan includes several threats which could interfere with the achievement of the ideal and long-term objectives of the Park. This section presents a review and analysis of the threats and constraints considered most significant in the context of the Park s conservation. The threats differ in type and significance. Some are natural, while others are a direct consequence of human activities. In other cases, threats arise from the lack of interaction between the institutions or from inadequate enforcement. In some instances, the impacts and results of these threats are cumulative. Some occur within the Park, others originate near the Park or far from it. There is an inevitable difficulty in evaluating the impacts, as there has been no previous monitoring efforts and analysis at this level NATURAL THREATS A number of natural threats in the Park, affecting species, communities, ecosystems and the Park may be regarded as threats for the implementation of management objectives. Climate Changes The decreasing precipitation related to global warming during recent decades has had a negative effect on the forest vegetation and other plant communities in the entire park. If this trend should remain static or increase in the future, it is possible that the existing plant communities may be replaced by more draught-resistant plants causing respective changes in the fauna. The overall changes in the precipitation patterns would result in reduced flows of water, slower aquifer recharging, and reduced water supply from the watershed. Significance: potentially high. Juniper Succession There is evidence that Siberian juniper is displacing grass communities in certain sections of the highland, treeless zone. This may have an unfavorable effect on relevant plant and animal communities and lead to deteriorated overall biological diversity, and also affect the predator-prey relationships in the high mountain meadows (souslik and raptors). This plant succession is secondary and is caused by significant reduction of livestock grazing, especially in certain locations in the Park. Significance: average, local. Management Plan

125 94 Genetic Degradation Observed as genetic pollution of autochthonous plant and animal species caused by interbreeding with non-native, closely related plants or domestic animals. Among the animals, the most serious impact is that of domestic cats and dogs which may degenerate the genetic purity of wild cats and wolves through interbreeding. The danger of genetic pollution caused by the resettlement of Carpathian bears in the recent past is unclear. Significance: potentially average. Natural Fires Natural fires are rare and do not present a substantial threat to the Park and its resources. The likelihood of natural fires is higher in the high-mountain treeless zone where they affect mainly grass communities, and in the massifs of coniferous trees. In certain cases, fire may be a threat to rare plant species and invertebrate species. Fire has a role in the process of succession, especially in high-mountain parts, causing change of landscape and formations of particular plant and animal communities. Significance: potentially average. Avalanches The rapid sliding of significant masses of snow destroys vegetation in various locations. However, avalanches have been naturally occurring in the Park for centuries. Frequently they cause changes of plant and animal communities, and change of habitats above the upper forest line. Some human activities may cause these to happen as well (such as setting of fire and cutting of juniper above the height range of 1,800 to 2,000 m) or may act as a starting factor (gunshots or other loud noises). Avalanches deserve particular attention in order to ensure the security of visitors. Significance: potentially high for certain habitats, potentially high for visitors; local. Isolation and Low Population Numbers Increasing isolation and diminishing numbers of individuals are observed among some species in the Park (such as chamois, rock partridge, red deer etc.). This is caused both by the increasing biological isolation in the Park, and by the ever diminishing possibilities for renewal of the populations from outside. As a result, such species are approaching their critical minimum numbers and are endangered with extinction. Apart from the direct loss of biodiversity in the Park, this also affects their role in the communities and ecosystems of the Park. Significance: high. Management Plan

126 95 Increased Interspecies Competition This involves competition for habitats, breeding sites and food. It may be caused by the current processes of re-settlement of certain species. It is possible, for example, that the saker falcon and the imperial eagle may be displaced by the long-legged buzzard which has been extending its range during the recent years and which has the same feeding requirements. Significance: high for some species. Low Reproduction Rates and Narrowly Specialized Species Certain species and groups of organisms with naturally low rates of reproduction and narrow biological specialization find themselves in an unfavorable situation caused by other natural processes in the Park. The low rate of reproduction of the imperial eagle has furthered the reduction of the species. The very specific biological requirements of many invertebrates have caused their extinction from locations in instances of even slightly changed conditions by natural processes or human-related activities. Significance: high for some species ANTHROPOGENIC THREATS Felling Logging has been carried out in the Park even after its declaration, even in forests older than 100 years, mostly of small volume and intensity, with some exceptions. Illegal felling is carried out mainly along the periphery of accessible locations. Felling is carried out in various places, and in most cases timber quantities are small. The purpose is mainly commercial, for fire wood or for construction. Both the legal and the illegal felling disturb natural processes in the ecosystems which is against the legally defined purpose of the Park. Significance: low because of the small quantities and limited areas. Illegal Hunting Despite the ban, illegal hunting has been continuously occurring in the Park since its declaration. This specific activity is difficult to prove with documents or other evidence, but there is much indirect evidence of its being practiced. The observations of park officials and of other visitors in the Park, and many indirect items (feeding troughs, snares, traps, hides, remains of killed animals, shots and others) are unambiguous evidence of illegal hunting in the Park. Frequently motor vehicles are used, and mainly large mammals or birds are killed for food, trade or pleasure. As a rule, these actions are carried out in full realization of their illegal nature, but in some cases the reason is unawareness of the Park boundaries or its regimes. Poaching after Management Plan

127 has been facilitated by easier access to weapons and other technical means allowing easier access to the mountain and easier hunting. Substantial difficulties have occurred recently in proving the violations and in sanctioning the violators. The most significant impacts of poaching are seen through the condition of the chamois, roe deer, red deer, and wild boar populations of the mammals, and of the gallinaceous and raptors of the birds. Significance: high for certain species. Illegal Fishing There are no clear facts proving illegal fishing in the Park but judging from observations and indirect evidence such occurrences can be considered episodic. Fishing is carried out in different places along rivers, including in reserves, mainly using fishing rods. There are very few cases of known illegal fishing during the breeding period. Significance: local, low. Excessive and Illegal Gathering of Herbs, Wild Fruits and Mushrooms The biggest threat for these resources is excessive and illegal gathering without observation of the locations, quantities and technology of gathering specified in the permits, and commercial gathering without permits. The excessive crowding of large groups of people (up to 400 and more gatherers) in one place, the indiscriminate camping, lighting of fires, littering etc. are some of the threats. Another negative aspect is the compaction or destruction of the accompanying vegetation. It has lead to changes in the plant communities, difficult reproduction of plants or halting of their development. The excessive gathering of non-timber resources is motivated by increased demands for medicinal plants because of the high price on external markets and, lately, on the domestic market as well, and because of the attempts by the population to seek additional income. Significance: high, local. Soil Erosion Erosion is visible in some parts of the Park, mainly in the treeless zone. Its development there is caused by past and, more rarely, current anthropogenic effects. Most often it is caused by motor vehicles and by the inadequate location and poor maintenance of roads. Erosion affects certain plant communities and species, and reduces the aesthetic value of the landscape. The gathering of large numbers of animals grazing in certain locations could increase the erosion processes. Additional infrastructure development, an increase in the tourism trail network, and motorized and extreme sports could exacerbate the problem if not controlled. Significance: average. Management Plan

128 97 Forest Crops in the Park There are sections in the Park with non-local vegetation, rendering non-typical appearances of areas. These are mainly forest crops, most of which are of alien geographic origin. Although the effect from such non-typical species remains localized and limited, it is always possible that some of the introduced species may expand to the detriment of local species. Genetic pollution caused by human activities is also possible as a result of the planting of ornamental species around private homes in the Park and through the scattering of seeds by livestock. Significance: low. Feral Cats and Dogs Not unlike the general increasing trend in numbers of feral dogs and cats in Bulgaria, the numbers of these animals entering the Park has also increased. This threat potentially entails the direct destruction of animals in the Park, and possible interbreeding between dogs and wolves, and domestic and wild cats, resulting in genetic degradation of the two wild species. The feral species are more aggressive than the wild species and less afraid of humans. They contribute to the negative attitude toward predators, may be the cause of livestock loss, may transfer diseases, and may be dangerous for people in and around the Park. Significance: average, high for certain species. Arson and Fire Caused by Humans The cases of fire caused by humans have become more frequent during the recent years. In some cases the fire is caused by negligence or by abandoned glass waste, although there is reason to believe that most of the fires in the Park during the recent years have been intentional. The fires occurring unnaturally have become an increasingly serious threat for the Park and its resources, mainly the wood and the pastures, and for the plant and animal species and habitats of significance for conservation. Eighteen fires have been registered and extinguished in the year 2000, with 14 occurring entirely in the Park, and 6 of them in reserves. They can be distributed by origin as follows: 44% intentional, 50% of unclear origin. Nearly one hundred eighty-five hectares have been set on fire, with 39.1 in the forests and in the treeless zone. The fires have caused drying of approximately 300 cubic meters of timber. Surface erosion is expected on some of the burnt areas. Significance: high, increasing in recent years. Management Plan

129 98 Changed Grazing Intensity The intensity and distribution of grazing in the Park during the last decade has been quite irregular. In most areas, traditionally used until 50 years ago, the number of grazing animal has been significantly reduced. Insufficient grazing in some parts of the Park is related to certain changes in vegetation cover, and in some cases, possible loss of species, changes in associations of species and in biological diversity. At the same time, certain pastures experience crowding of animals and overgrazing. The concentration of cattle has caused increased soil-surface erosion and introduction of ruderal plant species. The animals are frequently left unattended which is another threat for biodiversity, because of entry in the reserves, for example. Despite the prohibition, cases of goat grazing have been observed in the Park, usually in lower sections. It may be stated generally that the grazing intensity is not a significant threat for the Park but is of significance for high-mountain grass communities. Significance: low, potentially average. Waste In recent years increased quantities of solid waste left by visitors, especially plastic bottles, packaging, boxes etc. have been observed. They are usually concentrated around chalets and other locations where visitors concentrate, but are disposed of elsewhere in the Park as well. The issue of waste water around chalets is of no less importance. Also, some buildings and facilities are sources of waste in the Park. Significance: local, high. Industrial Pollution The National Park is not protected against short and long-distance transfer of substances from industrial enterprises. In general, the concentrations of the main pollutants of this type remain within background limit levels. This is true of both the air and water and of most biological elements. Heavy metals above the limit values have been observed only in the soil in some locations and in the vegetation on some mountain pastures (mainly in some western sections of the Park). Significance: low. Unregulated and Inadequately Marked Tourist Trails The tourist trails were developed in the past in consideration of possibility and of the interest of the tourists, but without nature conservation objectives in mind. This has created a dense network of marked and unmarked trails in the Park, including in the reserves. Some of them are inadequately positioned, their position not accounting for the conservation of some rare and sensitive species, and are not maintained. In many locations, the trails violate nature conservation objectives, and may disorient visitors, and even expose them to serious risks. Since most tourists are hikers and follow trails, Management Plan

130 99 this may result in negative consequences in some locations. This requires directing flows, and improving marking, auxiliary infrastructure and safety facilities. Significance: local, high. Excessive Loading by Tourists Tourists are accommodated mainly in Park chalets. In certain areas, periods, and during mass events excessive concentration of visitors is observed. At present, there is no system for regulating numbers of people staying in chalets, and no system of regulating the length of their stay. Excessive loading in some areas in the Park is causing damage to some of its resources. Tourists who stay in chalets for longer periods of time often engage in unregulated gathering of wild natural products, cause pollution, compaction, fire, etc. Significance: high around some chalets. Unregulated Extreme Sports Sports such as rock climbing, cave exploration, motorcycle riding, paragliding, and other forms of adventure and extreme sports are practiced in the Park. Some of the areas where they are carried out are the locations of important rare or sensitive species and communities. Very frequently the number of people, their appearance in locations of key importance for certain species, and sports equipment disturb a number of animals and their reproductive processes, and cause destruction of certain animal and plant species, and damage to sensitive communities (in caves, for example) and to aesthetic appearances of rock formations, etc. Currently these activities pose serious threats mainly to sensitive species such as the chamois, large raptors, cave communities and rock wall habitats. Their increased intensity, however, would impact the image and purpose of the Park, and a significant number of its elements. Significance: average, local and, for certain species, high. Unregulated Entry of Motor Vehicles and Use of Various Types of Equipment There is a developed road network in the Park allowing unregulated entry of motor vehicles from many locations. Automobiles, especially off-road vehicles, occur in the Park with increasing frequency. As a rule, the motor vehicles in these cases are used for poaching and treasure hunting. The possibilities for easy entry with motor vehicles and even heavy machines represents a serious threat. Frequently they are driven along poorly used roads or off road. There is also an increased number of other automobiles in the Park, used by visitors for recreation. The damages may result in soil erosion, deteriorated properties of certain habitats, disturbed plant communities and destruction of vegetation, and increased noise and disturbance, including at night. Significance: high. Management Plan

131 100 Treasure seeking Central Balkan is of significant interest to treasure hunters. Methods that are destructive for rock formations, caves, centennial trees and other attractive natural sites are used. The archaeological sites in the Park are an item of particular interest for offenders. The use of heavy machines, explosives, and other destructive means causes significant damage. Also, treasure hunting is related to prolonged camping, lighting of fires, pollution, digging and destruction of trails and Roman roads, disturbance of animals and other damages to biodiversity, including in reserves. Significance: local, high. Buildings, Facilities and Illegal Construction in the Park Various infrastructure elements remain despite requirements of the Park, which was established after their construction. These are mainly dilapidated, ruined buildings, but there are also some solid-structure and temporary buildings, various roads etc. With their construction and location, many of these structures distort the natural appearance of the landscape and of the habitats. They also represent a source of pollution, bringing excess people to areas and potentially causing disturbances, in this way contravening the purpose and long-term objectives of the Park. Significance: high LIMITATIONS Insufficient Information about and from the Park Exact and adequate information is of particular importance for the conservation of the Park. On one hand, it is a condition for the making of adequate management decisions, and on the other, for attracting public support for the conservation of the Park and establishing behavior in keeping with its values. The still insufficient awareness level of the people about the Park is a serious obstacle. Adequate information would prevent people from repeating mistakes and from causing problems for the Park and for themselves, as well as allowing the public to understand more about the values and resources of the Park and ways to use these resources sustainable. Detailed and accurate scientific information about elements of biodiversity, about processes in the Park, about anthropogenic impacts and, particularly, data about its conservation and management are of key importance for the achievement of the objectives of the Park. Significance: high. Management Plan

132 101 Insufficient Support by Local Communities and Institutions Awareness of legal requirements and of rules of behavior are important, but insufficient for the successful management of the Park. Only active and purposeful support by local institutions and communities would prevent the Park from developing in isolation and would allow activities to conform to local conditions or problems. Involving local institutions and communities to support the Park will help in the reduction of the threats from poaching, and from other negative impacts. The awareness and partiality of local communities would allow more efficient management of natural resources and beneficial cooperation on matters of common interest. It would allow the Park directorate to cooperate for the development of auxiliary infrastructure and services (tourism-related, for example) in surrounding settlements, thus making a direct contribution for local communities and for sustainable development in the Park in both the near future and the long term. Significance: high. Policy and Regulatory Constraints There are certain gaps in policy, supported by primary and secondary legislation developed in relation to the purpose and long-term objectives of the Park. This is a problem concerning regional planning legislation, with the most significant gaps including: No legally regulated obligations to take the role of the Park in consideration in regional planning and development in existence; Underdeveloped mechanisms for fund raising and sharing of benefits with local communities; Insufficient experience and practice in cooperation with surrounding communities in the management of protected areas and in the sharing of the benefits with them. Significance: high. Underdeveloped Operational, Personnel and Human Resource Development Strategy The achievement of the objectives of the Park depends largely on the high professional skills and solid motivation of Park officials. There is a need for guidelines and strategies, and a policy for the operations of the persons involved professionally in park management (The National Nature Protection Service and the National Park Directorates). Clear principles for administrative work and daily operations of the Park, employment policy, certification and professional development and growth are also necessary. Dedication, affinity and loyalty to the institution can be obtained through well-defined work-related development and opportunities for professional growth. Significance: high. Management Plan

133 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES The specific management objectives for arise logically from the review and analysis of the purpose of the Park, and of its long-term objectives and threats (the so-called second evaluation). The analysis of these threats in combination with the long-term objectives and the evaluation of their significance, allowed for the identification of these management objectives. These management objectives represent a list of results that are the aim of this first, ten-year Management Plan. Their identification involved the experience of specialists, of the Park Directorate staff, and of the authors of the Management Plan. These management objectives are the basis for the Park zone scheme, as well as the selection of Park zone regimes and norms. Each zone is evaluated for its role in the implementation of the management objectives, and in guiding the implementation of management actions. These management actions are then summarized in the Plan s program and projects. The Park management objectives are identical to the operational objectives. They do not deviate from its long-term objectives either. They focus on results, actions, and programs designed to address issues both within the Park, and outside its boundaries MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL COMPONENTS Long-Term Objective Preserve the natural features of ecosystems in the reserves and in other areas with potential to become reserves Being one of the foremost values of the Park, the reserves should be functionally related in a uniform network which should include all areas of significance for conservation. Management Objectives: Preserve and guard the existing reserves by ensuring efficient operation and observation of the regimes in the human impact limitation sub-zones; Develop and maintain a supporting network of natural corridors between the reserves; Raise the legal status of priority areas identified as significant for nature conservation (studying of the opportunities for declaration of new reserves, expansion of existing reserves). Management plan

134 104 Long-Term Objective Preserve the natural condition and the natural succession of forest habitats and, particularly, of old-growth forests Provisions are made for limited and minimal intervention in forest habitats for nature conservation reasons. No commercial logging will be allowed. Intervention is envisioned only in cases of fire management, disease and pest control that may affect the rest of the habitat or tree stands outside the Park, and in cases of removal of exotic species. In most instances, these actions will be preceded by studies, a concrete proposal, and a careful assessment of their appropriateness. Management Objectives: Increase the efficiency of guards, as well as the control, administrative and penal activities of the Park administration in forest management together with other interested governmental agencies and local authorities; Jointly with local authorities and with scientific institutions, construct and implement a forest habitat condition monitoring program and an intervention program for their management; Organize and maintain a complete data base about the condition and activities and interventions in the forest ecosystems. Long-Term Objective Preserve and maintain the alpine and sub-alpine habitats The alpine and sub-alpine habitats and their elements are among the most vulnerable parts of the Park, for which reason they require special attention, nature conservation activities and condition monitoring. Management Objectives: Develop and implement a program for monitoring of the alpine and sub-alpine habitats, using a group of indicator species; Develop and implement an annual grazing plan and alpine and sub-alpine habitat management program; Develop and implement an experimental program for monitoring succession of plant communities and distribution of Siberian juniper, as well as souslik, lesser mole rat, raptors and those invertebrates dependent on these processes; Introduce a monitoring system and maintain a database for the content of heavy metals in high-mountain soil and vegetation. Management plan

135 105 Long-Term Objective Preserve the natural condition of rock habitats in the Park One important element of the Park is the high nature conservation significance of the rock habitats. They should be the subject of strict management and monitoring. This will mean restricting the use of certain sites for extreme and adventure sports, as well as resource collection. Management Objectives: Map and register the rock habitats of characteristic shape in Central Balkan National Park and monitor their condition. Mark the rock climbing areas and carry out monitoring in these locations on the impact on animal and plant species; Long-Term Objective Preserve the natural condition of habitats in flowing water bodies Habitats in flowing water bodies throughout the Park, including vegetation along their banks, are both of high significance for conservation and highly vulnerable. Since a main threat to them is pollution, all existing sources of pollution with waste water from facilities and buildings should be the subject of monitoring and improvement. Management Objectives: Develop and implement a management plan for all solid waste, waste water and sewage facilities in the Park; Identify the habitats in the river-edge and stream-edge zones and include them in the visitor education and information program. Long-Term Objective Preserve biodiversity at genetic, population, species, ecosystem and habitat levels One of the most significant resources of the Park is the unique forms of life formed over millions of years. Any external intervention changing the genetic diversity, changing the natural condition and the natural processes in the populations, species, ecosystems and habitats would affect the maintenance of the biological diversity the most valuable resource of the Park. Management Objective Develop and implement a system for evaluation of the impacts on biodiversity in the Park jointly with institutions and organizations interested in the objectives of the Park and its management. Management plan

136 106 Long-Term Objective Preserve and maintain the natural condition of populations and of species habitat, particularly those with significance for conservation Although it is a complex initiative and requires much effort, a program for conservation of species of significance for conservation is urgently required. As much information about populations and localities of species of significance for conservation in the high-mountain treeless zone was gathered by the BSBCP, the studies will be oriented mainly to forest ecosystems. The program for species of significance for conservation has the following management objectives: Management Objectives: Map and describe the most important areas with high concentration of species of significance for conservation in the forest fund; Maintain the natural condition of the populations and localities of species of significance for conservation using the results of the long-term eco-monitoring program; Train National Park officials in general monitoring techniques which will be used for certain species of significance for conservation; Develop and implement a fire prevention and control plan; Develop and implement a plan for avalanche control measures; Develop and implement a tourist education and interpretation program aimed to preserve these special sites and areas; Create conditions for preservation of the species of conservation significance in the Park; Jointly with local authorities, local communities and local agencies, improve law enforcement to overcome poaching. Long-Term Objective Preserve and Maintain the Natural Condition and the Biological Potential of Populations of Medicinal Plants, Forest Fruits and Mushrooms in the Park Inventory, map and study the biological and exploitable reserves of medicinal plants, forest fruits and mushrooms in the Park and prepare a development plan and annual plans for their use; Develop and implement a system for observation and evaluation of the condition of biological and exploitable productivity of populations of medicinal plants, forest fruits and mushrooms; Management plan

137 107 Develop and implement an education program for conservation and reasonable use of resources of medicinal plants, wild fruits and mushrooms in the Park, involving well-trained local gatherers of such resources in the process of monitoring the condition of populations. Long-Term Objective Preserve environmental elements and ensure ecological corridors connecting the Park to other areas of conservation significance at the national and regional level Despite its substantial size, if it should remain isolated from the natural areas outside it, the Park will not be capable of fulfilling its objectives. Those parts of its territory that are linked to well-preserved neighboring natural sites should thus be the subject of special attention. At the same time, by dialog and partnership with their management institutions park management should contribute to the conservation of those neighboring areas in a condition as close to natural as possible. Management Objectives: Develop and implement mechanisms for maintenance of dialog with municipalities and regional authorities around the Park for the purpose of ensuring and maintaining the biological connection and unity of the Park and its surroundings; Study the possibilities and conditions, and develop mechanisms for integration of the National Park into regional development plans, territorial development and sectoral plans, made in consideration of its objectives and requirements. Include the Park in the National Ecological Network and in the Emerald Network. Long-Term Objective Maintain an optimal level of knowledge and longterm monitoring of biodiversity in the Park Filling in gaps in knowledge, and maintaining up-to-date information on biodiversity in the Park and on changes occurring there is of crucial significance for its conservation. Management Objective: Develop and implement an ecological monitoring system jointly with institutions and organizations interested in the objectives of the Park and its management. Long-Term Objective Maintain the natural condition of the landscape Management Objectives: Design and implement an erosion-control program for areas with surface erosion, trails, and nearby roads and other affected sections; Design and implement a program for replacement of exotic forest species and designate experimental areas for various methods of restoration. Management plan

138 108 Long-Term Objective Maintain the former infrastructure in the Park and ensure conservation and management by encouraging the construction of new infrastructures in the areas around the Park. It is in the interest of the communities around the Park that the visitors should be accommodated in the surrounding settlements. This is positive for the Park, because fewer individuals would stay in the Park, minimizing pollution and disturbances. Management Objectives: Evaluate the technical and social infrastructure in the Park, develop and implement a strategy for its optimization, including removal of illegal construction and reclamation and restoration of damaged terrain around such sites; Apply EIA procedures for new infrastructure sites in the Park in compliance with legal requirements; Implement a program for the improvement of the condition of chalets and other accommodation facilities in the Park without increasing construction; Carry out new construction only as required for the conservation and management of the Park; Long-Term Objective Preserve the natural condition of the representative, typical and unique landscape elements such as gorges, defiles, canyons, rock walls, precipices, caves, waterfalls etc. The conservation of the natural condition of the various elements of landscape is of crucial importance since apart from the landscape importance, they are inanimate components of ecosystems, which largely determine the overall condition of biodiversity. Management Objectives: Design and carry out an erosion control program for areas with surface erosion; Develop and implement a program for monitoring of the condition of representative, typical and unique elements of landscape, and regular cleaning and maintenance of these main sites; Develop and implement programs for visitor interpretation and information (jointly with groups with special interests, including volunteers). Management plan

139 TOURIST MANAGEMENT Long-Term Objective Ensure tourism development in conformity with the significance and purpose of the Park, by creating optimal conditions for aesthetic enjoyment, spiritual enrichment and contact with wild nature To preserve the qualities which make the Park attractive for tourists, the visitor loads should be kept within limits. Otherwise the most valuable parts of the Park which make it different from urban areas and suitable for recreation will be destroyed. The fact that tourists visiting the Park at present do not threaten its values is not grounds for underestimating this principle. Management Objectives: Develop and implement a program for monitoring of tourists and of their use of chalets and other facilities in the Park; Design and implement a scheme for regulation and management of specialized tourist activities; Implement a scheme for regulated use of chalets and other facilities by tourists, and for management of tourist flows; Develop and implement a program to inform the public about the opportunities for tourism, about the interpretative sites, accommodation and tourist services offered in the Park; Design and implement standards for the tourist infrastructure in the Park; Implement a waste management system; Develop and implement a program for environmentally sound chalets (environmentally sound accommodation of tourists in the Park) in compliance with its objectives. It will include improvements to chalet appearance, maintenance, fuel and energy supply and use, waste disposal, bookings, communication, services, and area maintenance INTERPRETATION, TRAINING AND EDUCATION Long-Term Objective Ensure optimal possibilities for scientific research, environmental and nature conservation education, training and interpretation Management Objectives: Develop and implement a program for an Education and Interpretation Facility in the Park, involving infrastructure, selection and development of sites, selection of materials, preparation of information, auxiliary literature, manuals; Management plan

140 110 Develop and implement a program for information and education of target groups stressing nature conservation; Develop and implement a program for training of specialized guides in interpretative skills related to the Park. Long-Term Objective Encourage understanding about the mutual connection between man and nature by inclusion of elements of history and culture in the study, research, interpretation and guarding programs The cultural values in the Park are related to the natural values to a significant degree. Although the conservation of archaeological, historical and other sites is not the direct task of the Park, it is an inseparable part of the entire conservation of the Park values and should be developed in cooperation with the relevant institutions. Management Objectives: Jointly with institutions protecting cultural and historical heritage, develop and implement a program for long-term historic and ethnographic studies, guarding and conservation of cultural and historical sites in the Park; Develop and implement a program with Bulgarian and international tour operators to include elements of the material culture, local ethnography, folklore and celebrations and rites in the package of services offered by the Park PARTNERS AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES Long-Term Objective Create conditions for sharing of responsibility and benefits in the conservation and environmentally sound use of natural resources in the Park through the use of joint management principles For centuries the area of the Park has been regarded only as a source of goods timber, other forest products, herbs, grass, hay etc. As a rule, the ratio of quantities used to those that nature can generate alone has never been taken into account. Such practice is incompatible with the objectives provided for in law and with the nature conservation purpose of the National Park. It is undoubted that the value of resources in the National Park is much higher than the price of timber, fruits, herbs, forest and other products in it. The new methods to receive revenue from tourism, environmentally sound animal breeding and other activities that do not cause destruction of resources have been proven in practice. The use of resources can be only the means for nature conservation maintenance of ecosystems, and it is particularly important that the revenue from them is used mainly by the local communities. Management Objectives: Develop and implement mechanisms ensuring use of natural resources from the Park only as a means for realization of its nature conservation objectives and activities and not exceeding the natural biological productivity of the respective resource species. Management plan

141 111 Monitor and evaluate the condition of the natural resources in the Park and plan their gathering on the basis of monitoring results by season, location, species, quantity, manner, means etc. Develop and implement a program for working with, and training, interested gatherers from the Park area, creating pre-requisites for the implementation of the principles of joint management of natural resources. Develop and implement a program for alternative ways to satisfy the economic needs of the local population through natural resources, such as cultivated growing, a higher level of on-site processing, added value by the significance of the Park, etc. Long-Term Objective Develop and maintain a system of regular coordination with local and regional authorities and key partners for the benefit of Park management and biological diversity conservation Ensuring maximum support by the local communities and other interested organizations and structures is the only guarantee for achievement of the Park management objectives. Management Objectives: Develop and maintain a mechanism allowing regular dialog between Park management and regional and municipal authorities, non-governmental organizations and other partners for coordination of the development of regional plans and activities on issues of mutual interest. Develop and implement an action program for projects with international partners; Participate in the development and maintenance of plans in partnership with other organizations carrying out thematic activities in different regions, including the Park area. Long-Term Objective Create and maintain conditions for sharing of economic benefits and obligations with local communities through attracting more tourists in and around the Park Management Objectives: Develop and implement an experimental program for employment in ecotourism and gathering and processing of natural resources, with preferences for local communities and municipalities; Develop and implement a program for creation and distribution of specialized tourist products including visitor services in the Park and serving attractions outside the Park; Management plan

142 112 Create and implement a model for permanent cooperation between the Park and local communities in generating interest of tourists in the Park and in settlements around the Park; Long-Term Objective Improve and maintain public awareness about the values, the opportunities and the exceptional resources of the Park Awareness of visitors and local people about the Park is crucial for its conservation. It is also important for the local people since it would allow them to benefit from the sustainable forms of development in the Park. Management Objectives: Develop and implement a uniform public relations strategy, including all activities related to its identity and image and those that contribute to its function in the social environment; Develop and maintain a network and a program in the Park for regular public access to, and exchange of, information; Develop and implement an educational program stressing nature conservation for selected target groups from areas around the Park; Develop and implement a program for work with the mass media, as well as cultural, artistic, scientific and educational institutions to involve them as intermediaries in the spreading of information about the Park; Develop and implement a program for provision of information to the public in areas around the Park and throughout the country about the principles of ecotourism; Develop and implement a program for provision of information to the public of the area and of the country about the successes and the problems of the implementation of the principles of joint natural resource management; Develop and implement a mechanism for cooperation with information, nature conservation, cultural and other centers outside the Park. Long-Term Objective Increase international recognition of the National Park Management Objectives: Prepare a proposal to the UNESCO Committee for Preservation of the Cultural and Natural Heritage to include in the World Heritage List; Draw up a proposal for issuing of a European Diploma to Central Balkan National Park. Management plan

143 113 Develop and implement a program for contacts, information exchange and participation of in joint international activities with other parks abroad; 3.5. MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES IN THE PARK Long-Term Objective Maintain the Park service infrastructure in conformity with Park objectives and with the zoning scheme To a large extent, the manner and degree of use of individual park sections by visitors, and the presence and impact of certain threats depend on the clear marking, information and control in those sections. Management Objectives: Develop and implement a system of Park signs including all boundaries, trails, entrance points, special areas, etc.; Establish a network of checkpoints, seasonal monitoring stations and facilities for guarding, management of tourist flows, ecological monitoring, fire prevention, and poacher control; Evaluate the existing network of roads and maintain it for the management of the Park; Design and implement an efficient system for communication in the Park; Develop and implement a development plan for the infrastructure in the Park; Long-Term Objective Develop and maintain a program of human resource development and specialization for professional park area management The provision of high professionalism and internal motivation of the officials is very important for the successful management of the Park. Management Objective: Develop and implement a program for training and improvement of the staff and human resources of the Park involving training opportunities, training institutions, possibilities for mentoring and specialization, skills training, study tours in the country and abroad. Long-Term Objective Develop and implement a program of revenue generation for the Park Although state budget funds are allocated for the NPD to manage the Park as a national resource, the availability of additional finances is extremely important. Management plan

144 114 Frequently extraordinary nature conservation actions are required and available funds may be of decisive importance for their success. Management Objectives: Develop an internal organization for the implementation of the additional revenue generation system; Study and develop revenue generation possibilities and mechanisms with local companies, local communities, municipalities, domestic companies and NGOs. Study the state of ownership of buildings and facilities in the Park and bring it in conformity with current legislation; Develop and implement a system for sales and advertisement of souvenirs from the Park, manuals, services, facilities, etc. Management plan

145 ZONING OF CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK Defining and describing park zones is the first tool used in achieving long-term and operational management objectives. Zoning is used for ensuring of areas with specific regimes, norms and management actions in the Park. The zones are important for two reasons: (1) they help to direct Park operations, and the allocation of Park resources, and (2) they help to inform and educate visitors about expectations regarding their behavior or actions in the Park. In, the following zones have been defined, mapped, and described in compliance with the Protected Areas Act (PAA). Reserves Zone, Human Impact Limitation Zone, Tourism Zone, Buildings and Facilities Zone, and Multi-Purpose Zone According to Article 21 of the Protected Areas Act, the following activities are prohibited in : 1. construction, except for tourist shelters and chalets, drinking water catchments, treatment facilities, buildings and facilities required for park management and serving of visitors, underground communications, repairs of existing buildings and roads, sports facilities and other infrastructure facilities; 2. production activities, except for maintenance and restoration in the forests, lands and aquatic areas; 3. clear felling; 4. use of fertilizers and other chemicals; 5. introduction of non-typical plant and animal species; 6. grazing of goats and grazing in forests outside meadows and pastures; 7. gathering of herbs, wild fruits and other plants and animals in certain locations; 8. gathering of fossils and minerals, damaging rock formations; 9. disturbance of the natural condition of aquatic areas, water flows, their banks and adjacent territories; 10. game breeding and hunting, except for regulation of numbers of animal species; 11. sports fishing* and fish breeding in certain locations; 12. pollution of water and areas with domestic, industrial and other waste; 13. bivouacking and lighting of fire outside determined locations; 14. disrupting the status of biological diversity; 15. gathering of rare, endemic, relict and protected species except for scientific purposes; 16. other activities determined with the order on the declaration of the protected area and in the management plan. *In relation to the Fishing and Aquaculture Act, the expression sports fishing is replaced in the text with non-commercial fishing. Pursuant to Article 21, item 16 of the PAA, the following will be prohibited for all zones and for the 10-year period of effect of this Management Plan: 1. Felling, taking, transferring, removing or transporting of trees, bushes and timber, unmarked with a park control mark; Management plan

146 CENTRAL BALKAN NATIONAL PARK ZONING The map presents the following zones determined for the Park: Reserves, Human Impact Limitation, Tourism, Buildings and Facilities, and Multi-Purpose. The Reserves Zone includes the existing 9 reserves in the Park. The Human Impact Limitation Zone includes the areas around the reserves (existing buffer zones) and the areas of high significance for conservation which could obtain a status of reserves, the areas to ensure biological exchange between the Reserves and the areas rich in biodiversity. The Tourism Zone includes trails (except those crossing the Reserves, which remain in the Reserves Zone), shelters, cultural and historic heritage sites, bivouacking sites, bonfire and rest sites, overlooks, specialized sites for interpretation and education, existing sports facilities sites, sites for extreme sports and the main exit and entry points for tourists. The Buildings and Facilities Zone includes all sites of construction, their adjacent auxiliary technical sites and the areas occupied by them and the surrounding areas, depending on the easement boundaries. Generally, these are buildings of various nature and purpose, which include chalets and other buildings which offer overnight accommodation, buildings with special regime of use, NPD sites, the first sanitary protection belts, roadman s huts, the power network, roads and road facilities, and water storage facilities for fire-fighting and general use. The Multi-Purpose Zone includes all other areas in the Park not included in the above zones. These are mainly natural areas where unlike other zones, no special measures to facilitate and provide safety to visitors are envisioned. A detailed description of zones, their purpose, the relevant regimes and norms are contained in Section II, Chapter 4.0 Zoning of of this Management Plan. LEGEND National Park Boundary Park Section Boundary Water Area Asphalt Road Macadam Road Tourist Trail Railway Lines Urban Area National Park Directorate Office Peaks with Elevation and Name Reserves Zone Human Impact Limitation Zone Tourist Zone Building and Facilities Zone Existing Infrastructure New Infrastructure Multi-Purpose Zone

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