Training on Fire Protection Measures and Rescue Operations in the Cross-Border Protected Areas of the Sharr-Korab Massif

On June 11, 2025, at the offices of Mavrova National Park in North Macedonia, a training session on Fire Protection Measures and Rescue Operations in the cross-border protected areas of the Sharr-Korab massif was held. This training was an initiative of the management team of Mavrova National Park, whose specialists generously offered to share their expertise and provide practical demonstrations of fire protection measures with other regional teams and stakeholders. As part of their internal training program for newly recruited staff and volunteers, they agreed with ALCDF to expand this opportunity to include participants from other Protected Areas throughout the region - including representatives from Albania and Sharr-Tetova - recognizing the importance of shared learning and cooperation for the effective fire protection of the Sharr-Korab Massif ecosystem.

The training aimed to improve technical and procedural knowledge in fire prevention, protective measures, fire suppression interventions, and rescue operations. Special emphasis was placed on the protection of life, property, natural habitats, forests, and pastures in emergency situations - whether natural or human-caused. The training served as a meeting point for the establishment and strengthening of fire protection teams and community-based volunteer structures throughout the Sharr-Korab region.

Beyond technical training, the training session was an opportunity for knowledge exchange among professionals and volunteers working in protected areas, including participants from Mavrova National Park, Sharr Mountain National Park (North Macedonia), and the Korab-Koritnik Protected Area (Albania). The training also promoted cross-border cooperation and joint efforts in fire risk management, including material and technical support for Fire Protection stations and volunteer teams.

The training was conducted within the framework of the project "Protection and Sustainable Use of Protected Areas in Sharr Mountain, Mavrova, and Korab-Koritnik," financed by PONT - Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust and implemented by ALCDF in partnership with CSCD and LAG Dibra Turistike.