Implementer: Regional Environmental Center, Skopje
Overall Goal and Project Results: This project aims to strengthen fire prevention and management in the agricultural landscapes of the Municipality of Novaci by building local capacity, improving coordination, and applying practical on site measure. During the project implementation, close cooperation with the Municipality of Novaci was established through a kick-off meeting that aligned goals, identified potential sites for activities, and secured municipal support for landscape fire-related actions. Local stakeholders, particularly farmers, were gradually engaged through targeted outreach, building collaboration with municipal services, REK Bitola, and the Volunteer Fire Department. A series of theoretical and practical trainings on agricultural landscape fire management involved over 30 participants and significantly improved awareness, knowledge, and coordination among stakeholders. These trainings were advanced with field simulations where participants practiced firefighting techniques, equipment use, and coordinated response in realistic agricultural fire scenarios. On-site fire prevention measures were implemented at four locations through mechanical removal of vegetation identified as potential wildfire fuel, led by the Municipal Communal Utility enterprise. At the same time, planning and procurement for planting green firebelts were completed, with planting scheduled for early in the next period, depending on weather and site conditions.
Scope and Beneficiaries: The project is being implemented in the Municipality of Novaci, and the project beneficiaries include the local authorities of the municipality, PE for Communal Hygiene, registered farmers from the municipality, representatives from the fire station of REK Bitola, members of the Volunteer Fire Department in Novaci, and representatives from the local business sector. These groups represent the key actors within the agricultural and rural landscape who are directly affected by landscape fire risks and are essential for improving fire prevention and management practices. As primary stakeholders in the area, they form the core target groups for strengthening local capacity, awareness, and long-term resilience to landscape fires.
Activities: The project activities are focused on improving fire prevention and management in agricultural landscapes within the Municipality of Novaci. These include coordination with local authorities and engagement of key stakeholders such as farmers, municipal services, and firefighting units. A series of theoretical and practical trainings were organized to strengthen knowledge and skills related to landscape fire management and emergency response. On-site fire prevention measures are applied through the removal of vegetation identified as potential wildfire fuel in high-risk areas. A detailed assessment of potential wildfire fuel in agricultural zones is conducted to support evidence-based planning. Additionally, a plan for planting green firebelts was developed, and planting seedlings at selected locations will be completed in the last project phase, aiming to reduce fire spread and enhance landscape resilience.
Duration: 02.12.2024 to 02.03.2026
Budget: 33.148CHF
