“The environmental protection is one of the key priorities of the “Georgian Dream”, requiring the actions envisaging the regulation of phytosanitary and respective infrastructure, which is another step forward to improve the life quality in the municipalities”, - the Chair of the Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Committee, Maia Bitadze stated at the meeting of the Working Group held in Kutaisi within the National Forest Program.

She, accompanied by the Group, visited Mukhrovani historical forest. The Deputy Environmental Minister, Iuri Nozadze introduced the situation in the forest and scheduled remedies to the MPs, NGOs and scientific circle.

“On this territory, where we can find the endemic and the Red List species “Imeretian Oak”, the illegal cuts, wastes and other negative factors lasting for the decades significantly damaged the forest.

Besides, the existing derivation channel has been also destructed, entailing the partial flooding of the forest. In view to improving the sanitary condition of the unique planted forest in so-called “Sagoria Forest”, we specially developed the complex plan envisaging the sanitary cuts, removal of the damaged trees and waste, and restoration of the forest”. The reporter introduced the actions aiming at the improvement of the sanitary condition of the forest. “National Forest Agency undertakes these actions since 2017 and we will further keep the restoration of the forest”, - he added.

The visitors got cognizant of the projects aiming at restoration and increase of the forest, and facilitation of natural renovation.

The meeting was attended by the State Trustee for Imereti, Zviad Shalamberidze and the local authorities.