STANA PLATEAU – A POTENTIAL NEW PROTECTED AREA OF THE NATURA 2000 ECOLOGICAL NETWORK IN BULGARIA

Abstract

A study of the natural habitats and target plant species on the Stana Plateau was conducted in order to determine its potential for designation as a protected area under the Natura 2000 Ecological Network in Bulgaria. 10 types of natural habitats were identified, of which 5 are priority for conservation, and one plant species, the preservation of which requires the designation of special protected areas, giving grounds for the Stana Plateau to be a suitable site for inclusion in the Natura 2000 Ecological Network in Bulgaria. As a result of the fieldwork and mapping, the distribution and area of each of the natural habitats were determined, as well as the distribution and abundance of the identified target plant species from Annex II of Directive 92/43/EEC. The conservation status of the natural habitats and the target plant species was determined. They are the basis for future measures in preparing an order for designation and a management plan for the protected area. The proposed boundaries of the protected area are the result of a balanced approach to nature conservation and the development of economic activity in the Stana Plateau region.