LIFE TRŠCA: Participation in training for nature conservation and volunteer supervisors

Three of the training participants are employed on the LIFE TRŠCA project, two on the LIFE FOR SEEDS project. The training took place with the aim of strengthening the ranger capacities in the Notranjska Park, which is also one of the key activities of the project. With the acquired knowledge, employees will make a significant contribution to nature conservation and the sustainable management of protected areas.

The training took place in several parts. The first two days were devoted to theoretical training, which took place at the Slovenian Forestry Institute. Participants gained in-depth knowledge about legislation in the field of nature protection, about the protection of biodiversity, and about the procedures that supervisors must know to effectively perform their work. There was also a particular emphasis on recognizing violations and proper action in cases of illegal activities in nature.

This was a two-day field training that took place in the police village of Gotenica in the Municipality of Kočevje. This part was intended for practical training, where participants tested their abilities to solve concrete challenges they may face as volunteer supervisors in nature in simulated situations. Participants faced exercises that include safely conducting supervision in hard-to-reach areas, communicating with visitors, the proper procedure for stopping vehicles, and actions in cases of violations of nature protection laws and other acts. The drill in Gotenica was particularly important due to the emphasis on cooperation with the police and other competent authorities, which will be crucial for effective supervision.

The final day of the training was held in Triglav National Park, where staff from Triglav National Park and the Škocjan Caves Park presented to the participants their nature conservation supervision system and the experiences and violations that most often occur in protected areas. They also provided some additional information on conflict management in the work of a supervisor. The police also presented their experiences and theory.

Employees took the exam to obtain the title of volunteer ranger at the end of November 2024. All of them successfully obtained the title of volunteer ranger as well. This title will enable us to carry out duties even more effectively within the LIFE TRŠCA project, where strengthening the ranger capacities of the Notranjska Park is one of the priorities. In the Notranjska Park it is important to ensure order and compliance with nature conservation regulations, as the area is rich in biodiversity that must be preserved for future generations.

With the acquisition of these skills, employees will make a significant contribution to the long-term goal of the project – sustainable management of protected areas and ensuring an appropriate level of nature conservation supervision. The training they completed brings added value for both the employees and the LIFE TRŠCA project and contributes to better protection of nature in the Notranjska Park.