The team of the Rewilding Rhodopes Foundation marked its 10th anniversary with a two-day event in the heart of the Eastern Rhodopes—Kardzhali. Partners and friends of the organization gathered for a forum and a field visit, attracting nearly 100 participants who actively engaged in the diverse program and following discussions
The event highlighted the foundation’s achievements over the past decade and presented opportunities for participation and funding in activities related to rewilding and local business development initiatives.
“In these ten years, you have achieved so much. Your work is a fantastic example of rewilding efforts, and I want to congratulate you,” shared Frans Schepers, Rewilding Europe’s Executive Director in a special video message. Among the attendees were representatives of local authorities, national institutions, environmental and civic organizations, experts, students and other long-time supporters of the foundation. “It is an honor to attend this forum and to welcome its participants—true modern-day pioneers and defenders of Bulgaria’s unique nature and biodiversity,” remarked Kadir Muarem, Deputy Governor of Kardzhali Province, during the event’s opening.
A Pioneering Event on Rewilding in Bulgaria
The conference was the first of its kind in the country to focus entirely on rewilding. A key aspect of the program was the practical restoration of wildlife, featuring presentations on the reintroduction of key species and nature restoration and comeback. Over the last decade, more than 1,000 red deer and fallow deer have been released into the wild in the Eastern Rhodopes, along with the establishment of a herd of nearly 20 European bison and over 150 wild horses roaming freely.
“We are not just restoring species. By rebuilding their populations, we are helping maintain the natural landscapes in the area and supporting natural processes,” explained Andreana Trifonova, Team Leader at the foundation, emphasizing the essential role of local communities in these efforts. One of the forum’s main goals was to promote the rewilding model and broaden the network of individuals and organizations involved in the foundation’s initiatives. “We thank all our friends and partners, without whom these achievements would not have been possible,” Trifonova stated. She added that the foundation plans to expand its activities over the next decade, engaging more organizations, local authorities, and businesses that share common rewilding mission.
A Network for Nature-Friendly Business
The event also saw the official launch of the Rewilding Rhodopes Local Business Network, which includes regional entrepreneurs offering tourist services and local products. The network’s aim is to promote the region, implement sustainable business practices, and organize joint campaigns. “We at Rewilding Rhodopes provide a platform for skill development and problem-solving. The network fosters harmony between nature and business, ensuring that both people and nature thrive in the Rhodopes,” said Todor Todorov, Business Development Expert at the foundation.
Exploring the Results on the Ground
On the second day, participants joined field visits to witness firsthand the accomplishments of the past decade. They explored biodiversity-rich areas in one of the foundation’s key sites, Studen Kladenets, encountering wildlife up close—a testament to the region’s ecological revival.
The event sparked lively discussions about the future of nature conservation and rewilding in the Eastern Rhodopes, emphasizing the importance of active community involvement in safeguarding and restoring the natural environment.