REFORD has started with the implementation of the project Fight Illegal Forest Activities (FIFA), financed by the Federal Financial Assistance, through the United States Forest Service (USFS) International Programs.
The project is supported by US expert, Mr. Phil Huff, who is joining field visits and discussions organized with various forest stakeholders in North Macedonia on topics related to illegal logging. During September there were several meetings and discussions held with: The Faculty of Forest Sciences, Landscape Architecture and Environmental Engineering “Hans Em” in Skopje (HEF), Department of Nature within the MoEPP and the Minister for Environment and Physical Planning, Academy for Judges and Public Prosecutors, Forestry Police, PE National Forests and Faculty for Security. At the beginning, an informative meeting regarding the project activities was held with the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy, Mr. Ljupco Nikolovski. In the following period, a number of field visits are planned to be conducted with forest managers, forest owners, institutional representatives etc.
Based on information received during the field visits Summary paper will be prepared to indicate the roots of illegal forest activities.