In September, the Levčev farm in Dol pri Ljubljani hosted a vibrant Local Market with the Tastes of the Forest and Autumn, featuring an engaging program for children and adults focused on forests and hunting. Organized with the support of the local municipality, the event showcased the interconnectedness of wildlife, biodiversity, and sustainable land use.
A Collaborative Effort
All three hunting families from the Dol pri Ljubljani municipality—LD Kresnice, LD Laze, and LD Pšata—came together to represent the local hunting community. At the market, hunters proudly displayed game trophies and dermoplastic preparations at two stands. Educational support and materials were provided by the Slovenian Hunting Association and the Food Safety, Veterinary, and Plant Protection Administration.
EU Policy Relevance
The Levčev Homestead Market initiative aligns with the EU’s Green Deal and Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 by promoting environmental literacy and sustainable practices. Events like this encourage citizens to reconnect with nature, learn about coexistence with wildlife, and adopt practices that support biodiversity conservation.
By engaging communities directly, such initiatives contribute to the Environmental Action Programme (EAP) goals of fostering awareness and education about sustainable land management and biodiversity protection.
Hands-On Learning for All Ages
The event offered something for everyone:
- For Children:
The young attendees were fascinated by bear claws, wild boar tusks, mallard duck feathers, nutria fur, and even the snout of a pig. They received educational tools like LZS schedules and the booklet Footprints and Traces in Nature, helping them identify wildlife signs in forests. - For Adults:
Adults were drawn to a white crow preparation, discussions about wildlife damage (e.g., foxes in urban areas and martens in residential buildings), and practical advice on mitigating these issues. Pig farmers collected valuable materials on preventing African swine fever, underscoring the importance of wildlife management for agricultural communities.
Strengthening Community Bonds
The success of this event highlights the vital role hunters play in fostering public understanding of biodiversity and sustainable wildlife management. By blending education with hands-on experiences, the hunters of Dol pri Ljubljani inspired curiosity and appreciation for Slovenia’s rich natural heritage.
For more information, please visit:
Slovenian Hunting Association Website
Photo credits: Manja Križman