How NGO ForestCom Enhanced the Protection of Mountain Rivers through FSC Engagement and Collaboration with the State Enterprise Forests of Ukraine

🧚We have some great news for you!

Do you remember the issue with unmaintained river crossings in the "Vygoda Forestry Enterprise"? Riverbeds damaged by the wheels of logging trucks, eroded banks, and abandoned logging debris... The expert team of our NGO had been engaged in long-term communication with the responsible forestry management authorities, whose duty is to ensure proper river crossings. Due to the lack of real improvements, our experts had to apply additional pressure. The international voluntary forest certification body, FSC, confirmed the critical necessity of properly constructed crossings.

As a result of our complaint, the "Vygoda Forestry Enterprise" was obligated to resolve the issue by March of this year. And… it happened! This month, a joint field inspection by our NGO’s experts and auditors from "Preferred by Nature" confirmed that the temporary river crossings have finally been properly arranged. Additionally, the enterprise has planned the construction of new logging roads with appropriate crossings over mountain streams. To improve forestry practices, the enterprise’s personnel underwent training. FSC requirements, aimed at raising sustainable forestry standards, have been incorporated into agreements with contractors working on designated logging sites.

🧚We are delighted that the efforts of our experts have paid off, and the Svicha and Synia Mahura rivers will no longer suffer from logging truck wheels. If you have any additional information, please contact us at info@forestcom.org.ua.