Training for building CSOs capacities on EU Nature- related policies

Our project's training took place from the 24th to the 28th of October in Grand Hotel, Valjevo, Serbia. Veronika Ferdinandova and Boris Erg from IUCN welcomed the participants and gave a brief introduction to the policies of focus.

The first day was centered around Ecological Networks, a concept presented by Lawrence Jones-Walters from ECNC. Ecological Connectivity was also discussed the second day together with Green Infrastructure, as well as the importance of EIA's and SEA's. Biotope held these sessions and also organized a role playing workshop that simulates the processes of EIA and SEA with participants acting as stakeholders. The third day was focused on NATURA2000 - concept, management and the general public. The following day Mark Redman spoke of the focal policy of DEM's part in the project, the Rural Development Policy and the CAP. There was a session about High Nature Value Farming as well as future policy developments, changes and new opportunities. Day 5 was set for an excursion to Valjevo mountains where participants would identify species and habitats and simultae the process of making a site of Community Importance or Special Protected Area.

DEM was present with participants from its member groups - Eko Misija and ED Zletovica,and participants came from other CSO's invited like Ekoskop, CEPROSARD, Greener Association for Green Society, Bivium, and Eko-Svest.

                                                   Workshop on HNV Farming in the Balkans

                                              NATURA2000 and Birds and Habitats Annexes

                                                            Field trip to Valjevo Mountains

Valjevo Mountains