ZAGREB, 17 Feb (Hina) - Work began on the restoration and revitalisation of the Drava Park Forest in Varaždin as part of a €5.1 million InterACT Green project, largely funded by the European Union.

The works include the removal of old, dry and damaged trees that pose a safety risk and hinder the forest's natural regeneration. The felling accounts for just 0.04% of the forest's total timber stock. All interventions are in line with regulations and compatible with the Natura 2000 ecological network.

"Our Drava Park Forest is a treasure. Our aim is not only its revitalisation, but also to encourage residents, visitors and tourists to return to this part of the city - to walk, spend time and enjoy nature," Deputy Mayor and MP Miroslav Marković said.

The works are being carried out by the state-owned Croatian Forests company, under the supervision of the Varaždin County public institution Priroda (Nature). Its director, Sanja Kopjar, said: "Our goal is to preserve as many old and valuable trees as possible in the Drava Park Forest, while at the same time ensuring the regeneration of the forest ecosystem... Experts have been involved in their preparation from the outset."

The regeneration programme was drafted by the Croatian Forestry Institute. Senior research associate Krunoslav Indir said this phase envisages regeneration across 7% of the forest's total area. A representative of Croatian Forests, Damir Felak, said 588 trees are due to be felled, with a total gross timber volume of 723 cubic metres.

Felling is set to continue until 15 March. Around 20,000 saplings of native species are scheduled to be planted in the autumn.

Under the InterACT Green project, the City of Varaždin has been awarded 80% co-financing in non-repayable funds from the European Commission through the European Urban Initiative.