A New Forest Management Model to Be Introduced in Several Forest Enterprises in 2021

Today, Minister of Environment Romanos Petrusyan hosted directors from the branches of the Hayantar SNCO. The agenda began with a discussion of the current situation in the post-war stage, specifically concerning forest management and urgent issues needing solutions.

The minister presented his vision for reform in the forestry sector and the shared priorities for future collaboration, along with the framework within which they intend to achieve results. Significant transformative changes are anticipated.

The minister addressed the concerning statistics regarding the number of illegal logging incidents. In addition to logging for defensive purposes in border areas, the volume of illegal logging within the territories of forestry enterprises is also alarming. A comprehensive discussion was held on the entire range of issues identified in forest management, including patrol service, the implementation of supervisory functions, and the organization of operational responses to challenges.

The minister introduced the new forest management model, with plans to test its variant in several forest enterprises by early 2021. Collection of firewood, thinning of trees, stump harvesting, and industrial logging will be conducted exclusively with the resources, equipment, and management of the state administration institution, Hayantar SNCO. The profits that were previously generated by private companies will be directed towards salary increases and the expansion of the SNCO's own assets.

The minister informed partners that the deputy minister is currently negotiating with international partners, particularly with the Czech Republic, on the exchange of forest management experience.

The discussion also touched on the crucial component of forest protection. The minister spoke about the implementation of a ranger institution, presenting examples from other sectors where 24-hour working groups have been implemented, expressing hope that Armenia's forests will soon be monitored by rangers equipped with modern technical tools and specialized service vehicles. Active steps are already being taken in this direction.

Summarizing the meeting, the minister outlined the ultimate goal of all reforms and measures being undertaken: to ensure reliable forest conservation and the establishment and development of a new forest management model, urging partners to exert maximum effort for the realization of this unified idea, solely for the sake of the Republic of Armenia and its people.