Biological Faculty: Deliblatska Pescara Restoration Must Prioritize Biodiversity Protection

The Biological Faculty of Belgrade has issued a strong statement emphasizing that the post-fire restoration of Deliblatska Pescara must be fundamentally based on protecting its rich biodiversity. The faculty cautioned against a simplistic return to previous conditions, advocating instead for an ecologically sound revitalization where the preservation of its unique mosaic of sandy, steppe, and forest ecosystems takes precedence.

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restoration must not represent a simple return to the previous state, but an ecologically based revitalization in which the preservation of biodiversity is a priority.

Deliblatska Pescara is not merely a forest but a special nature reserve characterized by a delicate balance of diverse habitats. The faculty stressed that the goal of any rehabilitation efforts should be to re-establish and sustain the natural interplay between these ecosystems, safeguarding their overall biological and landscape diversity. They warned that while the fire has already caused immense damage, an improperly executed restoration could inflict further harm.

Leveraging the recovery process, the faculty proposed an opportunity to reinforce the reserve's original purpose: conserving its unique natural habitat mosaic and exceptional biodiversity. They called for the revitalization program to be developed by an independent, multidisciplinary team of scientists and experts from various relevant fields. This program must also undergo open and transparent public debate, with active participation from the scientific community, citizens, and relevant institutions.

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The fire has already caused enormous damage, and incorrect remediation could cause additional damage.

The faculty highlighted Deliblatska Pescara's significance as a crucial area for biodiversity conservation in Serbia, with value extending beyond national borders. They noted that the ecological consequences of the fire could have long-term impacts on species, habitats, and the overall functioning of this valuable natural area. The full extent of the damage to wildlife and their habitats will only be ascertainable after the fire is completely extinguished and a thorough field assessment is conducted.

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The recovery of the area should be used as an opportunity to return its protection to the basic goal for which the Special Nature Reserve was established – the preservation of the unique natural mosaic of habitats and the unique biodiversity of Deliblatska Pescara.

Beyond the immediate fire impact, the faculty urged an investigation into factors contributing to its origin and uncontrolled spread. This includes examining the composition of the anthropogenically created forest cover, the condition of fire prevention systems, and the timeliness and effectiveness of initial response efforts. Such an analysis must be scientific, transparent, and fact-based to identify systemic weaknesses and mitigate future risks. The faculty also pointed out that while fires have occurred in Deliblatska Pescara historically, the recent event's scale and consequences necessitate a fundamental reassessment of current management and conservation practices.

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The revitalization program should be developed by an independent multidisciplinary team of scientists and experts from the fields of biology and nature protection, forestry, pedology, hydrology, agronomy, climatology, energy, and other relevant disciplines.