The breath-taking Nature Monument Vevchani Springs lies in the heart of the Jablanica Mountain in North Macedonia. This untouched haven of natural beauty has captivated locals and visitors. Recognising the need to protect this ecological gem, the non-governmental organisation – Center for Environmental Research and Information – Eko-svest – through their local office in Vevchani, have taken steps to do so with support from PONT. The PONT funded project ‘’Support for the sustainable management of the Nature Monument Vevcanski Izvori’’, aimed to harmonise the nature conservation efforts, engage the local communities, and contribute to good governance.
Apart from the valuable contribution to the management of the Protected Area Vevchani Springs, the project cultivated a spirit of environmental responsibility and community involvement.
Some of the key 2023 outputs were:
- Over 170 young people embarked on the educational visits to nature, participating in tree-planting initiatives, waste collection actions, and collectively creating a mural adorned with natural motifs. The ripple effect of these activities extended to a local primary school highlighting the project’s commitment to inclusivity and regional collaboration.
- Organised 4 outdoor educational activities and creative workshops which included different age groups, target groups and participation in cultural events. All completed activities demonstrating a commitment to spreading awareness beyond the youth and the local community.
- A number of citizen science workshops, conducted in collaboration with Galicica National Park and the Ranger Service of Vevchani Springs Monument of Nature took place. These workshops not only facilitated hands-on learning but also fostered a collaborative approach between protected areas and civil society organizations.
- Enhanced capacities of the ranger service for protecting the area and monitoring of key species through organised trainings and purchased equipment such as photo-traps. The project equipped these stewards of nature with enhanced skills, knowledge, and resources, ensuring more effective conservation measures.
Recognising that infrastructure plays a pivotal role in balancing conservation with visitor management, the project took significant steps to improve the visitor experience. In 2023 alone, 11 new signs and 11 signposts were installed to enhance orientation, visibility, and information dissemination. Information boards delineating protection zones were positioned to educate citizens about permissible and prohibited activities within the protected area. At the same time, tourist boards and info boards with natural heritage contributed to a heightened awareness of the area’s beauty and the rich diversity of its wildlife.
The signing of the Memorandums of Cooperation with the Municipality of Vevchani, the local primary school “Straso Pindzur,” and other NGOs reflects a broader collaborative approach. By bringing together various stakeholders, the project ensures that everyone plays a role in the sustainable management and protection of Vevchani Springs.
The story of the project is not merely about preserving a piece of nature; it is about transforming communities and fostering a sustainable coexistence between humanity and the environment. The engagement of the young people not only instilled a sense of pride and responsibility in the younger generation but also created a community-wide commitment to safeguarding this natural treasure.
Furthermore, by investing in the skills and knowledge of those entrusted with the management of the protected area, the project laid the foundation for effective, science-based conservation practices. This ensures that Vevchani Springs Monument of Nature will continue to thrive for generations to come.