The hazelnut forest near the villages of Alona and Polistipos, a popular place for outdoor recreation, is at risk of dying. To save it, it is necessary to take measures to prevent threats to its ecological balance.
Alona village council officials said the forest was suffering from "long-term neglect". It has led to “significant changes in the plant landscape,” including the introduction of invasive species, or alien plants that threaten historical flora. For this reason, “the complete destruction of the hazelnut forest may occur in the near future.”
Local authorities and concerned residents are pushing for the forest to be officially recognized as a national park. It is entirely located within a Natura 2000 protected area. Authorities are also promoting the opening of an Environmental Research Center in Alona, saying it will “allow the Forestry Department to better monitor and manage the area.”
At a meeting between local government officials and the Department of Agriculture, officials vowed to take “immediate action to stop the invasion of invasive species, restore vegetation and implement sustainable management practices that will ensure the long-term protection of the tree nut.”
The fuduk forest (Greek: Fundukodasos) is a popular place for outdoor recreation on the island. There is a 1.7 km nature trail of second difficulty level here. An ancient cobbled path leads down the hill through the forest. Throughout the route there are a variety of trees, including figs, walnuts, apples and olives. When you reach a small stream and cross a bridge, you can see two old oak trees that have dominated the landscape of this place for centuries.
Trail on the map
Text prepared based on materials from Cyprus Mail and Through my eyes
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